The fact that the 473-meter-high (1551.84 feet) Hausberg remains a green oasis even today is attributable to Franz Ludwig von Welden. The formerly bare Dolomite rock used to be the site of a fort and all but the watch and bell tower were destroyed; what's left standing today are just the ruins. Many trees and bushes planted in the 19th century have replaced it and are responsible for the Schlossberg's continued popularity, along with the beautiful views it offers. Schlossberg is also home to several restaurants, businesses and entertainment spaces, which is why it is so popular with locals as well as tourists. A cable car ride to the top of the mountain is a must-try when here.
The Rathaus (town hall) on the Hauptplatz has experienced numerous alterations through the years. In 1550, a renaissance-style building was erected on the Hauptplatz, approximately half the size of the present building. In 1806, the town hall received a classical makeover and was extended. Between 1888 and 1893, this honorable building was again transformed to the detriment of the numerous figures adorning the building at the time, which were later completely removed as part of the minimalist craze in the 1950s.
The largest castle in the Steiermark, incorporated into the Johanneum museum in 1947, shelters a whole new world to discover. Erected in 1625 as a representative building by Duke Hans Ulrich von Eggenberg, it still manages to preserve its old charm. The rooms are the objects of fantasy-filled design with stunning ceiling paintings. The building boasts a famous hunting museum as well as a former baroque garden, home to free running deer and peacocks. The passion of the former master adds interesting detail. His love of numbers is reflected in the construction of the castle, with four corner towers to symbolize the four winds and 365 windows to symbolize the days in the year.
The Uhrturm (Watchtower) is not only beautiful to look at, but it is home to one of the oldest bells in the country. And, it doesn't just stop at that; it serves a practical function as well. The hands of the clock work ijn an unconventional manner, with the small hand shows the minutes and the big one the hours, making it much easier to read. The Uhrturm was constructed in 1560 and the bell rung to announce impending executions. Later it indicated the closing hour for pubs and cafes.
Until the 19th century, Graz Cathedral looked rather bare from the outside. Now, plenty of elaborate ornamentation characterizes the 15th-century building, and more specifically its westward facing walls. Only one of the formerly abundant frescoes remains, the famous Landplagenbild, has suffered substantial damage. The present altar has survived many modifications; formerly there had been no less than twelve dating from the late Gothic period, these were replaced by Jesuit renaissance altars and these, in turn, were replaced by today's baroque versions.
Just south of Graz Cathedral is the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II who started building it from 1614 within his residence. The Mausoleum is amongst the most important buildings in Graz. It's a monument to the successful Counter-Reformation and is composed of two parts - to the north, there is St Catherine's Church, while its southern part shelters the graves of Kaiser Ferdinand, his wife Maria Anna, his mother Maria, and of one of his sons. Call ahead for more details.
Even if Archduke Johann, by his own admission, was not a fan of noble elegance, he did construct a beautiful "palais" rather than just a city residence. In 1828, the Styrian prince acquired the grounds for the erection of the Palais Meran between 1841 and 1843. The new landlord was content: 'very habitable, spacious - all I can ask for' he is reputed to have said about the new construction with its wonderful park, designed by architect Georg Hauberrisser. Today, the building houses the Graz University of Music.
The Basilika Stift Rein or the Rein Abbey is a not just any Cistercian monastery, but the oldest and the only structure of its kind in existence the world. The architecture of the Basilika Stift Rein bears Romanesque influences while its courtyard has a striking Renaissance style, making the Baroque church a beautiful amalgamation of eye-catching styles. The portrait known as the 'Adoration of the Shepherds' graces the altar of this abbey; a sight to behold. This is also the resting place of founder Margrave Leopold I. His grave was discovered during a major excavation in the year 2006.
One of the prime attractions of the town of Judendorf-Straßengel, the Pilgrimage Church Maria Straßengel is situated atop a hill. An unmistakeable sight on the city skyline, the church is a well known pilgrimage destination. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Constructed in the 14th Century, the church has elaborate sculptures, keystones and beautiful stained-glass windows. There is a crucifix too, that has a Christ-like figure naturally grown from the roots of a fir tree. This crucifix is, however, shown on request.
The Landhaus and its impressive courtyard is a jewel of Renaissance architecture constructed in installments. The history of this building began in 1494, additional buildings were bought in 1519 and the Knights' Hall was constructed between 1527 and 1531. The particular style dates back to the period 1557-1564, when the main facade was constructed in Palazzo-style by Domenico d'Allio and was strongly influenced by the Venetian tradition. This gave the building and courtyard its breathtaking appearance. A few more recent alterations were conducted in 1890. Today, the Landhaushof is a popular venue for events and performances, theatrical or otherwise.
The fact that the 473-meter-high (1551.84 feet) Hausberg remains a green oasis even today is attributable to Franz Ludwig von Welden. The formerly bare Dolomite rock used to be the site of a fort and all but the watch and bell tower were destroyed; what's left standing today are just the ruins. Many trees and bushes planted in the 19th century have replaced it and are responsible for the Schlossberg's continued popularity, along with the beautiful views it offers. Schlossberg is also home to several restaurants, businesses and entertainment spaces, which is why it is so popular with locals as well as tourists. A cable car ride to the top of the mountain is a must-try when here.