Jakominiplatz (Jakomini Square), Graz

Jakominiplatz (Jakomini Square), Graz

Jakomini Square (Jakominiplatz) in Graz is situated in the southern part of Graz's first district, known as Innere Stadt. Its origins can be traced back to the late 18th century when Emperor Joseph II ordered the dismantling of Graz's city walls in 1782. The land, once part of the fortifications, was sold to Andreas Knight of Jakomini, leading to the development of the square between 1786 and 1820. Initially designated for residential purposes, it attracted buyers interested in building their homes, laying the groundwork for Jakomini Square as both a physical space and a community focal point promoting growth and progress.

The square's name pays homage to Kaspar Andreas Ritter von Jacomini-Holzapfel-Waasen (1726–1805), a significant local figure who served as the postmaster of Cilli in Lower Styria (now Celje, Slovenia) and owned substantial properties in southern Graz. His legacy is intertwined with the square's identity, commemorating his contributions to the area's development.

Over time, Jakomini Square evolved into a vital transportation hub. It served as the terminus for Graz's first horse-drawn tram in 1878, later expanding to accommodate additional tram lines, solidifying its role as a central point for urban transport. This evolution continued with the 1964 urban planning competition, aiming to integrate the square into a comprehensive transport plan, incorporating innovative ideas like high-rise buildings and the undergrounding of tram lines.

In 1996, architects Jörg and Ingrid Mayer spearheaded a significant redesign of the square. This renovation introduced modern elements such as traffic lights and housing, along with innovative lighting that enhances the square's ambiance. Today, Jakomini Square is not merely a transit hub but a vibrant public space that reflects Graz's vitality. Serving as the central interchange for all tram lines and numerous bus routes, including regional connections, it facilitates movement within the city and symbolizes Graz's blend of tradition and modernity in its urban landscape.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Graz. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Jakominiplatz (Jakomini Square) on Map

Sight Name: Jakominiplatz (Jakomini Square)
Sight Location: Graz, Austria (See walking tours in Graz)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Graz, Austria

Create Your Own Walk in Graz

Create Your Own Walk in Graz

Creating your own self-guided walk in Graz is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Graz's Historical Buildings Walking Tour

Graz's Historical Buildings Walking Tour

One of the most impressive things about Graz is its architecture. Indeed, the atmospheric Medieval center of the city, the largest in Europe, abounds in architectural marvels – opulent historic buildings evoking the grandeur and glory of Austria’s Imperial past.

Influenced by the centuries-long presence of the Habsburgs and the cultural and artistic role played by the country's...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
Graz Introduction Walking Tour

Graz Introduction Walking Tour

There were settlements in the Graz area as early as the end of the Copper Age. However, Graz, as Graz, did not truly emerge until the 12th century. The Babenberg dukes swapped hegemony over the area until Otakar III built the Hauptplatz, the main square of the city in 1160.

Otakar was one of the Babenberg dukes. Under Babenberg rule Graz developed into an important commercial center. By 1280...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles