The author describes the foundations for the development of archival activities in the Maribor area that can primarily be seen in the efforts of the Historical Society of Maribor to protect and preserve Slovene cultural heritage, especially archive materials. Within this framework, the efforts to establish a public archive institution in Maribor, lasting several decades, were particularly important. The institution was founded as late as in 1933 and named the Ban's Archives of Maribor. From 1941 to 1952, the Archives were part of the Regional Museum. Since 1952 they have been an independent institution called the Regional Archives of Maribor. Throughout the period of implementation ofprofessional archiving activities, many professional challenges and difficulties can be traced. Particularly important are those connected to providing suitable spacefor the preservation of the archive material, appropriate expert processing and the use of the diverse and rich archive materials.