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| Austria's medieval
gem... The city of Graz is the provincial capital of Styria. The colours of this pleasant medieval town will immediately strike the visitor: Green parks, red roofs, and the blue River Mur. Dominated by the Schlossberg, which rises up over the town centre, Graz has a great deal to offer and is a good start-off point for day excursions to a number of different destinations. A 30-minute walk through the park and a climb up to the Schlossberg will reward you with fantastic views. Alternatively, take the little railway that runs every 15 minutes. At the summit, there is an open-air theatre, a small military museum and a 16th-century bell tower, which was once part of the now-demolished castle. Among the city’s other buildings of interest, the 16th-century Renaissance-style Rathaus in the Hauptplatz, is worth a look, with its fountain surrounded by four female figures representing the four main rivers of the region. Check out the interior of the 15th-century, late-Gothic cathedral, the Domkirche, with its combination of Gothic and Baroque elements, and its reticulated, vaulted ceiling and side altars. On the exterior wall there is a faded fresco depicting life during the plagues of 1480. Next door, the mausoleum of Ferdinand II is a splendid sight. Inside, take a look at Johann Bernhard Fisher von Erlach’s exuberant stucco work and frescoes, and gaze up through a hole in the dome of the crypt to the larger dome above. The Landeszeughaus (provincial armory) houses an astonishing display of armour and weapons, mostly dating from the 17th century, and should not be missed. From the fourth-floor window, take in the view of the Italian Renaissance courtyard of the neighbouring Landhaus and the stunning Schlossberg rising up beyond. An absolute must see is the Baroque palace, Schloss Eggenberg, which is dominated by themes and symbols from astronomy. There are 365 windows and 24 state rooms, a Planet Hall with frescoes showing the seven planets and 12 signs of the zodiac. Mythological, classical and contemporary scenes can be seen in other parts of the palace. There is also a coin museum and an archaeological museum. The city offers a wide choice of theatre and opera, cinema, music, exhibitions and art installations which are held at many different locations around the town. Soak up the atmosphere at some good bars and dine in Graz’s excellent cafes and restaurants. |
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