Graz attractions

54

Graz, as the center of Styria, is an important Austrian city where, in addition to the wonderful old town, there are several significant. I will present these in this article!

The old town of Graz was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999 because the historical part of the city has been preserved in very good condition, and its development can be well traced from Gothic times onwards. The site was supplemented with Eggenberg Palace in 2010.

Most of Graz’s attractions are located in the old town, although many beautiful old buildings can be found in the St. Leonhard (II.) and Geidorf (III.) districts as well.

Graz attractions

Schlossberg and the Clock Tower

One of the most significant and well-known attractions of Graz is the Schlossberg, located on a hill right in the heart of the city.

The 474-meter high hill offers a great view of the city. You can reach it on foot or by funicular.

The characteristic attraction of the Schlossberg is the Clock Tower, which is also a symbol of Graz. It’s not only a dominant element of the city’s panorama but also a historical monument that preserves the remains of medieval fortifications. It gained its final form in the 16th century.

Graz Cathedral

Officially named the Cathedral of Saint Aegidius, it’s one of the outstanding architectural beauties of Graz’s historical city center.

The cathedral was built in the mid-15th century, commissioned by Friedrich III, the architect of the imperial court. It was built in Gothic style, although it underwent several significant alterations in later centuries.

Particularly noteworthy are the cathedral’s frescoes and interior decorations, including the famous ‘Plagenbild’, a 15th-century fresco depicting the plague epidemic.

Mausoleum

Built as the resting place of Ferdinand II, it’s an impressive Renaissance structure located in the historical center of the city.

Designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in the 17th century, it’s an excellent example of the architectural and artistic styles of the time. The mausoleum is not only the burial place of Emperor Ferdinand II but also the final resting place of many other Habsburg family members.

The interior of the building is characterized by rich decorations, frescoes, and artistic creations that worthily reflect the power and influence of the Habsburg house.

Hauptplatz

The central square of Graz, where historical buildings, cafes, shops, and restaurants can be found.

It has two characteristic attractions. One is the town hall (Rathaus) built in 1550, whose classicist style creates a special contrast with the surrounding Baroque and Renaissance buildings.

The other is a decorative fountain statue erected in memory of Archduke John, the city developer. The female figures symbolize the four rivers of the region: the Mur, Enns, Drau, and Sann.

Landhaus

Very close to the main square stands the most beautiful building in Graz, the state parliament building.

Built in the 16th century, it’s an excellent example of Renaissance architecture, particularly highlighted by its richly decorated, arcaded courtyard. The Landhaus is known not only for its political and administrative function but also serves as a popular venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts.

The interior of the building is impressive, especially the famous „Landhaushof” courtyard, which represents one of the peaks of Styrian Renaissance architecture.

Franziskanerkirche

The Franciscan Church is a historically significant religious building in downtown Graz.

Built in the 13th century in Gothic style, the church is associated with the Franciscan order. The church is particularly famous for its tall, slender tower and richly decorated interior, which features a remarkable main altar.

Over time, it has undergone numerous transformations, so today it incorporates elements of various architectural styles, reflecting the city’s diverse history.

Murinsel

The bridge on the Mur River is actually a modern and innovative work of art that connects the two banks.

Created in 2003 for Graz’s European Capital of Culture title, it was designed by New York artist Vito Acconci. Externally resembling a ship, it serves as a venue for numerous events, concerts, and exhibitions.

Stadtpark

The largest park in Graz, which is essentially a continuation of the Schlossberg to the east.

In the freely accessible park, there are statues of several celebrities associated with the city and others: Mozart, Franz Nabi, Joseph Krainer.

In addition, you can see the fountain named after Franz Joseph, exotic trees, colorful flowers, and numerous resting areas with benches.

Freiheitsplatz

One of Graz’s central squares, which is part of the historical downtown. The rectangular Freedom Square features a monument to Emperor Franz Joseph I.

Eggenberg Palace

The most significant Baroque castle in Styria, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List along with the old town of Graz.

Its excellently preserved interiors, extensive, spectacular park, and some collections of the Universalmuseum Joanneum museum placed here make Eggenberg Palace one of the most valuable Austrian cultural monuments.

At the western corner of the palace, the „Garden of the Planets” was created, as well as the Lapidarium (Roman stone collection), and the entrance to the Archaeological Museum is also on this side. The coin collection can be viewed in the former rooms of Balthasar Eggenberger, who acquired imperial minting rights.

In the Old Gallery, masterpieces from five centuries are exhibited. 300 works of art, mostly paintings from German-speaking areas, fill 22 rooms. In the first room, there are carved Madonnas from the 13th century in mystical lighting, then the rooms take us through different historical and artistic periods in chronological order, up to the 18th century Rococo.

Mariatrost Basilica

Located on the outskirts of Graz, about 9 km from the city center, but it’s worth visiting.

The Baroque building is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Styria. The goal of pilgrims coming from Austria, Hungary, and Croatia is a wonderful statue of Mary, which originates from the Rein Abbey near Graz and was originally located in the private chapel of the castle.

The Baroque-style basilica was built in the early 18th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Its exterior is impressive with its two towers, and its interior is richly decorated and has a wonderful main altar.

The church can be reached from downtown Graz by tram number 1. From the last stop, it can be approached by climbing 216 steps.