Graz

Graz, the capital of the Austria province of Styria, can take pride in being one of the best-preserved historic city centres of German-speaking Europe. Visitors will remember Graz as a city characterised by narrow, winding streets, magnificent inner courtyards and, above all, a Mediterranean flair.

From the Schlossberg, a hill rising up over the city centre of Graz, visitors obtain a magnificent view of the rooftops of the city. The City of Graz, with a population of about 250,000, has a rich history dating back more than 850 years. Due to its central geographic location in the heart of Europe, it also views itself as a cultural and economic hub for "tomorrow's Europe". The Styrian capital has always assumed a special position in Southern-Eastern Europe as a city of cultural events and universities as well as an economic centre and a place of social stability.

Sights

The Landhaus in Herrengasse is a must on every sightseeing tour. Next to this impressive Renaissance palace with its beautiful arcaded inner courtyard stands a building which represents the primary function of the City of Graz over the centuries - Graz as a mighty fortress at the southern borders of the Holy Roman Empire - the Armoury of Graz hosts 30,000 weapons and armoury from medieval times up to the 19th century.

The Cathedral of Graz (Grazer Dom) – the court church of Emperor Frederick III dating from the late-Gothic period - the early-Baroque Mausoleum with its impressive series of cupolas, where Emperor Ferdinand II. is entombed, and the Graz Castle (the Burg) with the double helix spiral staircase commissioned by Emperor Maximilian - a jewel of late medieval stone masonry - are a part of all sightseeing tours.

The Clock Tower, the city's proud landmark located on top of the Schlossberg, and the belfry are the only remnants of the former mighty fortress which was destroyed by Napoleon's troops in 1811.

Another must on a tour through Graz is Eggenberg Castle, a splendid early-17th century palace set in the heart of a beautiful castle park and, by the way, one of the most attractive venues of the styriarte Festival.

Modern Architecture

The "Graz School of Architecture" attracts international attention with its innovative architectural design and produces masterpieces of modern architecture.

Graz is open to contemporary architecture and the most important buildings built over the last few years have already become attractive tourist sights.

Culinary specialities

The farmers' markets are a feast for the eyes and a true delight to the taste-buds: the two largest markets are at Lendplatz and Kaiser-Josef-Platz.

Every day (except Sundays) farmers offer fresh vegetables, fruits, meat products or the famous Styrian pumpkin seed oil. In a more refined form, these products can also be enjoyed at one of the numerous friendly restaurants offering traditional Styrian cuisine as well as international specialties.

Shopping

Extravagant boutiques offer exquisite shopping pleasure, regardless of whether you want to purchase traditional country-style clothes, shoes or designer fashion. In the numerous antique shops, at flea markets or arts and crafts markets you will find extraordinary and unique products. It is no wonder that Graz was named the best shopping city of Austria.

Further informations:
Graz Tourismus
Graz 2003