I am not sure whether or not this ST 52 slides Technical Training presentation is known to everybody, but I strongly recommend it for anyone who wishes to understand the STM32 structure and functions.
It is especially recommended for beginners, before any attempt to use the Maple.
It will cut your time and frustration significantly.
This presentation is an old (2007) official ST one. There may be a newer version somewhere (st site??).
http://www.icbank.com/Forum/ST/board/upload/STM32F10x_Seminar_9_18_ppt.pdf