The first church was built on this site in the beginning of the 12th century and was, at that time, located outside the newly formed town. As the town grew into a city, the church also expanded and changed in accordance with the Gothic fashion. Two chapels were added in the baroque period, but in contrast to many other churches in Slovenia, Maribor Cathedral preserved its predominantly Gothic appearance.
The next addition to the church was the classicist bell tower. 162 steps lead to the top where an observation desk provides visitors with a splendid view of Maribor. A small apartment at the top served as a fire lookout’s living quarters in the past and houses an exhibition dedicated to the same topic today. Visitors who climb to the top can also ring the wishing bell and make a wish.
The church saw another important change in 1859 when Anton Martin Slomšek transferred the seat of the diocese to Maribor from Carinthian Sankt Andrä, and the Church of St. John the Baptist was elevated to the status of a cathedral.