Graz
Graz has an old and strong castle by the Mura River, with the steep Schlossberg forest rising high above the Old Town.
Nowadays, Schlossberg is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Graz, featuring scenic trails, seafront flowers, and breathtaking views of the city’s rooftops. The iconic clock tower, Uhrturm, is a symbol of Graz and can be seen from all around the city.
Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, with a population of 290,000. It is a fascinating blend of modern wonders and historic architecture, making it a must-visit destination.
The history of Graz dates back to the Celts, and the first written mention of the city was in 1129. The old center of Steyr was called Gradec, which later gave its name to the entire province. In 1276, the city came under the control of the Habsburgs, who surrounded it with a strong protective wall. The Habsburg family later ruled the southern part of the empire from Graz.
You can reach Schlossberg by climbing the 260 steps of the Schlossberg Stairs while enjoying stunning views. If you prefer not to walk, you can take the mountain rail or cable car. The cable car, which has been operating since 1894, was rebuilt in 2004 and takes passengers up the steep hillside.
The Uhrturm, Graz’s iconic 28-meter-high clock tower, was originally part of the city’s medieval defenses. The tower’s current form was completed between 1559 and 1569, and the clock was installed in 1712 by a local clockmaker named Funk. Today, the clock operates electronically but still preserves its historic charm. The tower has three bells: the “hour bell,” the “soul bell,” and the “firefighter bell.” A unique feature is its large wooden gallery surrounding the clock face. The tower is topped with a distinctive high-pitched roof and decorated with three stone carvings, including a 16th-century Styrian panther and an eagle. Additionally, there is an 18th-century carving of the Habsburg coat of arms, featuring the double-headed eagle of Empress Maria Theresa.
The Glockenturm (Bell Tower), built in 1588 as part of the Holy Thomas Temple, was demolished in 1810. The tower houses the largest bell in Graz, the 80-kilo Liesl. The bell tower can be reached from the city by a cogwheel train, and a beautiful horse chestnut tree leads from the Clock Tower to the Bell Tower. During the summer season, there is a free bar in the dungeons of the old fortress, adding to the charm of the area.
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