Sightseeing in Graz - what to see. Complete travel guide

Graz is an ancient city and a capital of Styria region of Austria. In XII century Graz was an amazing residence of Habsburg dynasty that left to the city its historical district, the Old City, which is in great condition even after so many centuries. Here you will also find buildings, houses, inner yards decorated in Renaissance style. Starting from 1894 here works Scholssberg cableway. It raises tourists on a green mountain with the same name (473 meters above the sea level). The cableway works with the inclination of 61%. On the peak you will be able to see the ruins of an old watching tower.

The “heart” of Graz is a chapel located in the middle of the main square of the city. The chapel is equipped with one of the oldest bells in the country and original clock mechanism. Here, on the square of bell ringing – Glockenspielplatz – you can see an amazing performance on 11 a.m. and on 3 and 6 p.m. When bells start ringing, small doors open on a pediment of the building and people can see moving mechanical boy and girl with national costumes who start dancing. This tradition is followed for over a hundred of years.

Arsenal or armor chamber is one of the city’s attractions. It is located near Landhaus – a masterpiece of fortress architecture by Domenico dell'Allio. The building is used as a museum that exhibits the largest collection of historical weapons. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The greatest architectural masterpiece of Graz is the Town Hall building. The luxury building in the style of classicism was built in the year 1803. After admiring the impeccable beauty of the town hall, it is worth visiting the market located next to it, where popular national products and interesting souvenirs are sold. On national holidays, interesting entertaining events are held in the square in front of the town hall, and on the eve of Christmas, a luxurious fair unfolds here.

There are several beautiful castles in the city, the most famous of which is Schlossberg. This castle is located on the top of a hill. It was founded in the 12th century and throughout its existence, has never been taken by enemies. Now, the entire territory of the ancient fortress is open for walks. There are many spacious areas, from which a wonderful view of the city opens.

Among the cultural institutions of Graz, the most recognizable and interesting is the Kunsthaus Museum, which was opened in 2003. This art museum occupies an original futuristic building, which in its outlines is a bit like a whale. From the moment of foundation, only temporary exhibitions are held in the museum. It does not have its permanent exposition. In addition to art exhibitions, it hosts events dedicated to the art of photography, cinema and design.

One of the most unusual museums in the world - the Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum, is located in the city. The miniature ancient town is the birthplace of the world famous actor and athlete. The museum is located in the same house where Arnold Schwarzenegger spent his childhood. The collection of its exhibits is very multifaceted. Here can be seen sports equipment, with which he practiced bodybuilding in his youth, and old posters of the very first films with his participation. Visitors of the museum can be photographed with the realistic figure of the Terminator.

One of the oldest buildings in the city is the beautiful St. Giles’ Cathedral, which was built in the 15th century. For many years, the cathedral was owned by the Jesuit Order. Its main feature is the luxurious interior decoration. In the early 20th century, the cathedral underwent a major reconstruction, during which it was possible to restore the interior. Since then it has remained unchanged.