Graz: TravelGuide

Graz is dominated by the mighty Schlossberg, a forested mountain which rises over the medieval town centre and is criss-crossed with walks from all sides. At the top is a clock tower which formed part of the now demolished castle and once was the emblem of the city. Grazs new landmark, the... More

Graz is dominated by the mighty Schlossberg, a forested mountain which rises over the medieval town centre and is criss-crossed with walks from all sides. At the top is a clock tower which formed part of the now demolished castle and once was the emblem of the city. Graz’s new landmark, the Kunsthaus (House of Modern Art) was constructed right next to the River Mur in 2003 where it floats like a giant, bluish bubble.  Don those flat shoes and loose clothing and take to your feet in the city of culinarx exploration in the little-known city of Graz. Amble through the historic old town with its winding streets and alleys leading to fascinating squares and courtyards. Graz, with a population of 250,000, has a great number of interesting sights ranging from old and time-honored to dynamic and modern. The late-gothic cathedral is reminiscent of the times when Graz was still an imperial seat. The baroque Mausoleum of Emperor Kaiser Ferdinand II next door is an impressive sight. The 5-story Landeszeughaus (provincial armory) houses an incredible 32,000 historic armor and weapons. The Landhaus with its Renaissance arcaded courtyard almost looks like a Venetian palazzo. Graz should be sampled with all five senses: Discover Austria’s delicatessen and take a journey through countless bars, coffee houses, wine bars, inns and restaurants taking you on a gastronomic whirlwind tour of the local Styrian food and wine regions. A must is a visit to the two centrally located farmer’s markets where farmers personally sell their fresh wares Joanneum, donated by prince Johann at the beginning of the 19th century, is Austria’s largest provincial museum and spotlights nature, culture and arts in Styria. The Murinsel is an artificial floating platform in the middle of the Mur. It was constructed by the New York artist and designer Vito Acconci on the occasion of Graz becoming the 2003 European Capital of Culture. Special events include the "Styriarte", a music festival dedicated mainly to early music, the “Steirischer Herbst” (Styrian Fall), a contemporary festival spotlighting theatre, fine arts, literature and music, the Jazz Summer and Eggenberg Palace Concerts. Event centers like Kunsthaus, Stadthalle, the Opera, the theatre and forum stadtpark host great cultural activities throughout the year. Less