Holidays in Graz – An unforgettable moment
Winter holidays have passed, but our holiday mood did not go with the winter. I choose between in the beginning of the year to visit Graz, the second largest city in Austria. Because I found that nowhere in the worlds meet with such a density, architectural masterpieces of all styles: from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. And since 1999, the city is in UNESCO’s World Heritage.
In warm seasons, streets and squares are transformed into beautiful scenes for events of great value. Moreover, in 2003, Graz was the European City of Culture. In winter, however, fresh air, feel the holiday lights and the people seem to always live creates an absolutely fascinating picture.
Start to walk through the historic center and you’ll be surprised: at each corner you will discover something new. Great streets, romantic terraces, plastics facades and superb buildings. In contrast to impressive traditional Graz is modern Graz. On one side of the river Mur are small shops, street cafes, which is why the playful city with southern flair is. With few steps over Mur you come across a desired contrast: Museum of Modern Art, the bizarre Kunsthaus called “friendly alein”, installed between the old houses.
This monster with a strange beauty must be visited, being the second symbol of the city. Another objective: shell floating on the river, which connects the two parts of the Mur Island. Do not miss if you’re in Graz:
1. In the old center
Landhaushof – Federal Provincial Parliament of Styria. Parliament courtyard with its arcades is considered a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance (Domenico dell ‘Allio). Behind the arched windows are held Styrian Landtag meetings.
Generalihof / Herzoghof. Graz is known due to romantic courtyards. You have to see Generalihof, into the street Herrengasse 9 and a little further “painted house” (Herrengasse 7).
The Court of German knights order. No doubt, the Gothic court with arches of German Knights is remarkable. It is entirely paved with “Murnockerl”
2. In the modern center
Franciscan district. Called today “Kalberne Viertel” (calves district), hosts all kinds of Italian dishes.
Mur promenade. An ideal place for walking, resting, loved by people of Graz. From Franziskanerplatz are just a few steps to take in the direction of the bridge.
Kunsthaus Graz, Museum of Modern Art. The alien building was built in 2003 and hosts temporary exhibitions (Monday is closed!), “Austria Camera” (photo exhibition) and a restaurant.
Mur Island. A unique symbol, also built in 2003 for Capital of Culture, is a floating shell that connects the two sides of Mur and houses a café and an amphitheater.