Although the direct records documenting the impact of the Plague, commonly referred to as the Black Death, on Maribor during the Middle Ages are sparse, one can infer its profound effect considering the significant damage it inflicted across Europe, including present-day Slovenia.

The menacing Black Death made its entry into Europe around the mid-14th century, triggering a seismic shift in society. Its swift spread and lethal implications were nothing short of devastating. The Plague led to a massive population decline across Europe, with scholarly estimates suggesting a mortality rate between 30% and 60%.

The Plague’s repercussions extended beyond the immediate loss of life. The precipitous decrease in population led to acute labor shortages, sparking significant societal and economic changes. The pervasive fear and uncertainty that the Plague incited also left a substantial impact on the arts and culture of the period. Numerous artistic works from this era echo the dread and despair brought on by the disease.

As for Maribor, the Plague’s specific impact likely paralleled that in other European cities. However, in the absence of precise historical records, the exact details regarding the number of people in Maribor affected and the precise timeline of the city’s encounter with the Plague remain elusive.

A city infested with Plague - Black Death