Situated on the Drava River, Maribor played a crucial role in the Habsburg Empire’s defense during the Ottoman-Hungarian Wars. As a strategic point of contention between the two powers, Maribor was a pivotal defensive position for the Habsburg Monarchy against the relentless advance of the Ottoman forces.

The Siege of Maribor in September 1532 epitomizes the city’s significance in this historical period. Under the threat of the formidable Ottoman Empire, led by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and his Grand Vizier Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha, the town’s local garrison and citizens valiantly defended Maribor. The Ottomans, on their southern march following the unsuccessful Siege of Vienna, were deterred by Maribor’s defenses.

Despite the odds, Maribor’s defenders held their ground, marking a significant victory in the Ottoman-Hungarian Wars. This successful resistance not only underlined Maribor’s strategic importance but also showcased the tenacity of its people. The city’s history and development were profoundly shaped by these events, leaving an indelible mark on its enduring narrative.