Old Graz

Graz, founded in 1379 as the southeastern seat of the Hapsburg Empire, is one of the most preserved ancient cities in Central Europe.  Famous for its great architecture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, it is full of passionate energy.  It has a sunny climate and three leading universities.  It also houses Europe’s largest arsenal, built in the 16th century.  Centuries later, Graz’s latest landmark, the Kunsthaus (House of Art), retains the right to boast contemporary art for its underground exhibitions.  Unlike the medieval contours of the Old Town, it descends from the original bank.  Moorincell (Moore Island) across the river has an artificial floating platform made of glass and steel, as well as an amphitheater, a playground, and state-of-the-art restaurants.
In a 16th century Baroque building you can find a revival of its ancient and contemporary art.  Its 54 guest rooms are located around three courtyards and provide a relaxing atmosphere.  You can take the elevator to the mountain terrace for a scenic spot.  There are also more paintings behind the glass and metal facade of the modern Ogarton Hotel.  It features a warm interior accented with chestnut hood wood and colorful works by more than 250 contemporary artists.  In its elegant 56 guest rooms, the modern fleece liner of the mid-century stands apart from the calm, mediocre walls.
From spring to fall, a number of venerable fairs and music festivals, as well as large stone streets and squares abound.  Behind the Opera House are farmers’ markets with fresh herbs, herbs, and homemade cheese, and local pumpkin oil.  One of the most exciting day trips to Graz is to take one of the weinstrassen (wine roads) south of the city.  At the nearby Bundesgestut (Federal Stud) in Fiber, you can see the famous Lipizzaner horses bred for racing school in Vienna.