A legend says the Devil made Castle Hill. He promised to make a high hill in exchange for one soul. He flew over the town carrying a huge rock. But it was Easter Sunday. He had no power to take a soul. Enraged, he threw the rock down. It was smashed. The biggest piece became Castle Hill.

In the center of the city of Graz, the Castle Hill towers to 1,554 feet above sea level. The hill is forested and topped by a fortress. Today it is a public park with awesome views of things below. It is often the venue for entertainments, cafes and restaurants. Management is provided by Holding Graz, the city utility company.

As early as the 10th century there are mentions of the fortifications of Castle Hill. In the 15th century a 1,300 foot long fortification was built by architects from Italy. A cable lift was used to raise stones to the top of the hill. The castle was demolished in 1809 by order of Napoleon.

Ludwig von Welden turned the ruins of the castle in a park in 1839. The park holds the clock tower and two bastions from the old castle. A funicular railway has its terminus next to a hilltop restaurant with spectacular views. On the west side of the tower are two small cafes. One of the bastions has a open-air stage for performances.

The summit and tower can also be reached by elevator or by hiking up steep stairs one one side of the mountain or by a winding path on the other side.

Each year the Elevate Festival of music, art and politics takes place in various places around the Castle Hill. A tunnel through the Castle Hill connects to the elevator. A second tunnel runs parallel to the elevator tunnel. It connects Castle Hill to Karmeiter Square. In this tunnel is the fairytale Express, a train ride for children.

On the mountaintop is the Casemate Stage. This is a free venue for concerts. It has a retractable roof and a capacity for 1,310 happy fans.

In the heart of Graz lies an architectural and engineering wonder nestled within the historic Schloßberg - the Schloßberg Slide (Schloßbergrutsche). Announced in mid-2017 and opened to the public in February 2019, it has swiftly become an iconic attraction. Notably, it holds the title of the tallest indoor slide globally, standing at 64 meters tall. This impressive structure is cleverly integrated into the mountain's landscape, winding around the Schloßberg lift within the lift shaft and culminating in a grand exit in the tunnel leading to the lift.

Stretching over a total length of 170 meters, the slide offers a thrilling 40-second ride where adventurers can reach average speeds of 25 km/h. This combination of speed, height, and the slide's winding path offers a unique thrill unmatched by any other slide globally.

A notable feature of the Schloßberg Slide is its innovative design, which includes a change in the direction of rotation of the downward spiral midway through the ride. This twist not only enhances the excitement but also demonstrates the thoughtful engineering behind the slide's construction.

Known as THE SLIDE GRAZ, this attraction transcends being merely a slide; it delivers an unforgettable experience. As participants zoom down multiple turns around the elevator shaft, they're treated to a rush like no other, all while enclosed within the historic Schloßberg. This fusion of history, adrenaline, and modern engineering makes the Schloßberg Slide a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike, promising an adventure that will linger in the memory long after the ride concludes.

The tower housing the Graz clock dates from the 13th century. It is first mentioned as a fortification in 1265. The clock itself was installed in 1569. A wooden battlement and walk encircle the tower. Fire watchmen used the battlement to keep a watchful eye on the city.

In 1712 a second dial was added on the north side of the tower and new clockwork developed by Michael Sylvester Funck. The hour hand was larger than the minute hand so the hours could be more easily read from far off.

During the War of the Fifth Coalition in 1809, the Tower fell into the hands of Napoleon. The fortifications were to be demolished by the Armistice of Znaim. However, the citizens of Graz were able to pay a ransom for the tower and clock.

The Clock Tower underwent a thorough restoration between 2008 and 2011. The battlements were renewed, and the clock dials and hands repaired. Three bells are kept in the tower. The hourly bell installed in 1382 is the oldest bell in Graz. The fire bell installed in 1645 tolled out the locations of fires. The poor sinners' bell installed in 1450 was rung for executions or curfew.

Below the tower is a stone dog. In 1481 a barking dog saved Kunigunde, daughter of Emperor Friedrich III, from dishonor by mercenaries of Matthias Corvinus, King of Hungary. The brave watch dog is memorialized as a stone watch dog.

The Staircase Church (Stiegenkirche) is a Roman Catholic church situated in the heart of Graz. Originally serving as the monastery church for the Augustinian Hermits, it holds a rich historical background intertwined with Graz's architectural and cultural development.

Dating back to the 14th century, the origins of the Staircase Church are marked by its unique architectural feature-accessibility solely through a staircase located at No. 21 Sporgasse. Initially affiliated with the Parish of Saint Paul, it later came under the care of the Augustinian Hermits. Under the direction of Archangelo Carlone, a new structure was built, preserving the original staircase that bestowed upon the church its distinctive name.

Significant reconstruction took place between 1613 and 1628, adapting to the evolving needs and aesthetics of the time while preserving its historical essence. Notably, the staircase was crafted by Antonio Solar, likely completed by 1636, contributing to the church's unique architectural character.

The Staircase Church is Graz's oldest parish church. Despite periods of decline in the mid-16th century, worship ceased in 1554. However, in 1588, Archduke Charles II revitalized the church by entrusting it to his chaplain, Aurelius Mancinus Pergola. Construction of a new church and monastery was completed by 1627, marking a revival of religious and communal life.

Further renovations in 1962, led by architect Kurt Weber-Mzell, and an interior redesign by the Diocesan Liturgical Commission and the Association of Architects during the Austrian Catholic Day, have preserved the Staircase Church as a vibrant and sacred space, reflecting both its historical significance and its contemporary role in Graz's religious life.

Spor Street is older than Graz. It began its career as a street for commerce in Roman times. It was originally a trade route called the Strata Hungarica. It extended from the Murtal to the Roman provincial capital. The name Spor refers to the word "spur." Spur makers and armorers lived here in the 14th century.

The street today is mainly a pedestrianized shopping street lined with historical buildings. On the edge of the Main Square is the 15th and 16th century stuccoed, baroque Luegg-haus. Opposite is the Art Nouveau House with a 16th century core and a flowery Art Nouveau facade (built in 1900).

Nearby the Art Nouveau House is the Baroque and Rococo facade of the "Inn To the Roman Emperor." It was built in the 15th century and rebuilt in 1755. The Staircase church is the oldest parish church in Graz, first noted in a document in 1343. The House of the Teutonic Knights, built in the 15th century, has an inner courtyard with pillar arcades.

The Palace Saurai is at the upper end of the street. It is from 1566. There is a statue of a sword-wielding Turk in front. The "Golden Pate Inn" with a round bay window and arched stone gates dates from the 17th century. Queen Elizabeth II had dinner there in 1967.

Today, ancient Spor Street lives up to its history as a street for commerce. It is a busy no-cars shopping zone with stores offering exotically flavored ice creams, sneakers, shoes, watches and jewelry, baked goods and Italian fashions. And the list goes on.

Graz Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Giles, aka Saint Aegydius. The first church of Saint Giles had occupied the site since 1174. The Cathedral was designed in a late Gothic style and built in the 15th century under the auspices of Friedrich III. It was built outside the city walls as a fortified church.

Construction of the Cathedral probably began in 1438. In the sacristy and the choir are dated plaques with the Latin letters AEIOU, there are various interpretations. Some say it means "Austria is destined to rule the world" (Austriae est imperare orbi universo). Friedrich really liked this one. It can be found everywhere.

The exterior has a walled choir with buttresses. The frescoes on the facades have been whitewashed, except for the plagues of God, by Thomas von Villach. Chapels on the outer walls, two ridge turrets, one large roof turret, sheet metal doors, walled-up tombstones and a sculpture of Saint Aegydius complete the picture.

The Graz Cathedral is a "hall church" inside, with added side chapels and a baroque organ gallery. The nave is really three naves separated by formidable-looking pillars. The baroque high altar replaced the Renaissance high altar in 1733. The longish choir is behind a tall triumphal arch. Two reliquaries on marble plinths flank the triumphal arch.

Situated east of Graz's old town, close to Graz Cathedral, Graz Castle was constructed starting in 1438 under the patronage of Duke Frederick V, who later ascended to become Holy Roman Emperor Frederick III. Its strategic significance was limited, so it was linked to the fortress on Schloßberg through a covered passage. Graz became the capital of Inner Austria in 1564, leading to the castle's expansion and refurbishment as the residence of the region's Archdukes. However, with Archduke Ferdinand II's relocation to Vienna upon his coronation as emperor in 1619, the castle lost its primary role and fell into disrepair.

Over the centuries, there were various minor renovations, but by 1822, sections were deemed rundown, resulting in partial demolition between 1853 and 1854. In the early 20th century, some renovations and expansions occurred, and since 1922, the castle has housed the Styrian governor's offices.

During World War II, the castle sustained significant damage and underwent reconstruction from 1947 onwards. Between 1950 and 1952, new structures were added, forming what is now called the New Castle. Presently, alongside the provincial governor's offices, the castle hosts several departments of the Styrian provincial government. While access to the castle is limited, visitors can explore its courtyards and the iconic double spiral staircase, appreciating its historical significance from the exterior.

Emperor Ferdinand II was not a savory character to everyone. He was born in 1578 in Graz. He was educated by Jesuits. He became emperor of Austria and protector of the faith (Catholic). He was the scourge of Protestants. He instigated the bloody Thirty Years War. He achieved his goal. Austria became Catholic. In 1614 he chose his mausoleum.

He commissioned his favorite architect, Giovanni Pietro de Pomis to build both his mausoleum and Saint Catherine's Church. Giovanni died with the church and mausoleum half-finished. Ferdinand was laid to rest in the half-done church. In 1687, Ferdinand's grandson, Leopold, hired architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach to finish the job.

The resting place of Ferdinand II is a combination of mausoleum and church. The mausoleum is under the cupola on the right side of the building. This is one of the most unusual buildings in Graz. It joins the Austrian Baroque Mannerist qualities with the dramatic appearance of Roman churches.

The size of the crypt is huge. The high altar was made in 1696 by J. B. Fischer von Erlach. The ceiling paintings are exceptionally fine. A convex mirror inside the crypt allows for a more extensive view of the ceiling paintings. The sarcophagus is underground. It is possible to climb the bell tower for a great panorama of Graz.

In Glockenspielplatz 4 one can find the Carillon. Come dance with me! And dance they do! Three times a day, at 11 am, 3pm, and 6 pm. A young maiden and a strapping boy emerge from their gable hideouts. Dressed in traditional costumes they dance to the melodies of the 24 bells of the carillon.

Wine and spirits dealer Gottfried Maurer bought a house in Fliegenplatz square in 1884. Herr Maurer traveled a lot for business, mostly to North Germany and Belgium. In his travels he had become fascinated by carillons. So he had a carillon installed in his new house in Graz. The bells tolled for the first time on Christmas Eve in 1905.

In 1929 Herr Maurer willed the glockenspiel to the city of Graz, provided that the mechanism be maintained in perpetuity. World War II silenced the bells for a while. They were melted down for armaments. Finally, in 1956, the music of the carillon was restored.

The carillon plays three times every day but the tunes are not always the same. Changing the positions of the 800 pins on the carillon barrel produces new melodies. One can have Alpine, Folk, yodeling, Christmas carols, modern airs but no Rap. The two tireless dancers never fail to appear, twirling, smiling and always in tempo.

As the music approaches its climax, a golden rooster appears above the dancers, crowing his approval. Herr Maurer wanted a rooster like the one he saw in Munich. He got it.

The Country House of Graz is the perfect place to kick back. One ia awed at the sight of the spacious courtyard. Three floors of arcades, 16th century gargoyles, a bronze fountain, all these form a Mannerist playground. It is the perfect place for feasts, events, concerts, films and the annual Christmas ice crib.

It is a vision of the palaces of Venice come to the Austria. In 1557 the Italian architect Domenico dell'Aglio, a fortress architect who was supervising the restoration of the Castle Hill, started work on the Country House for the Styrian estates. The estates were done with holding their meetings at different places. They needed a place in Graz.

The interior of the Country House is full of Baroque adornments. The Session Hall has a stucco ceiling installed by Johann Angelo Formentini. There are escutcheons, coats of arms, and porcelain stoves decorated with the Austrian Eagle and the Styrian panther. In the Meeting Room the ceiling is decorated with signs of the Zodiac.

In 1631, after the expulsion of the Protestant estates, the Country House chapel got its black and gold Jesuit altar. The altarpiece shows the assumption of the Virgin. The two statues of Saints Catherine and Barbara signify the restoration of Catholicism in Graz.

The Painted House is first mentioned in 1360. In this house the Dukes of Styria would give their subjects land in fee and otherwise carry out their public business. The manager of the building was untaxed in return for his putting up the "Prince's chair."

In the year 1600 while a brother of Styrian prince and future emperor Ferdinand lived in the house, it was painted for the first time. The artist was Ferdinand's future court painter, Giovanni Pietro de Pomis. Giovanni would also be the architect of Ferdinand's mausoleum.

In 1742 the house passed to Franz von Lathurner. Franz was a moneychanger. Another thing he liked to change was the paint job by Giovanni. He engaged Vorauer artist Johann Mayer to paint new frescoes. Mayer was a student of Johann Cyriak Hackhofer.

Mayer's frescoes cover the whole facade, 723 square feet. Nothing is left of the frescoes of Giovanni Pietro de Pomis. Mayer's work, the gods and heroes of the ancient world, has faded.

The low part of the facade had Bacchus, Vulcan and Vesta. Gods of wine, crafts and fire, respectively. Above them are Apollo (light), Jupiter (Father of the gods), and Pluto (underworld). Then comes Mercury (business, travel and borders), Mars (war), Minerva (also war, and arts), and Aesculapius (medicine).

On the top row are the heroes of both Greek and Roman mythology. The ancient world had a lot of gods and heroes. They aren't as clear as they used to be. Look close.

In 1550 the city administration of Graz moved themselves into a rather modest Town Hall, which was also used as a prison. In 1803 this building was exchanged for a newer, classical style model, sans prison. The Town Hall of today was designed by architects Wielemans and Reuter and built in 1893. The style is Historicist-Old German.

It was determined all the houses on the block set up for the new town hall would be demolished. Some owners resisted, however. Two houses stayed in place while the town hall grew around them. The stubborn narrow twosome can be found in the inner courtyard, jammed into the bulk of the enormous town hall.

The town hall was financed through a tax on wine. There are short corner towers on either side of the front of the four-level building. In the middle, the tall center tower has a dome and spire. Niches on the neoclassical facade hold statues of Austrians, emperors, and figures representing art, science, trade and industry.

Inside, the two-story session hall provides space for the city council. The chamber has a coffered ceiling and a gallery. Panelings, a chandelier and a wall clock are 19th century originals. On the left side of the main entrance is a 1971 painting of the Graz Town Hall evolving through time.

Up the staircase to the next level is the Wedding Hall. The Town Hall is a popular site for weddings. A webcam is used. Marriages can be witnessed around the world.

The Main Square of Graz has been a focal point and magnet for visitors and locals since 1160 when it was built by Duke Otakar III. The attractions and watering holes of Graz are easily accessible from the Main Square.

The Square is a trapezoid shaped market square surrounded by houses built in medieval and late Gothic styles. Some facades are Gothic, Baroque, and Biedermeier. Notable houses include: The White House (built in 1710); The Eagle Pharmacy (built in 1535); and the Citizens' Home to the Great Christoph (built in 17th century); numbers 3, 4, and 6, respectively.

The standout house is the Luegg House, with a grandiloquent stucco facade built in 15th century. The palace of the Sturgkh merchant family built 1532 is in various styles, including 20th century touches.

Since 1878 the Franz Ponninger fountain monument of Archduke Johann von Osterreich has dominated the square. The statue of the Archduke is flanked by four female figures. They represent the rivers Mur, Enns, Drava, and Sann. Fountain basins are on the corners. The base holds allegorical bronze reliefs.

Until the late 18th century the Square was also used for public punishments, including executions. Offenders could be pilloried before the town hall to amuse the innocent. Executions were big events. Commoners were done in the Square. Nobility were executed in the town hall, no tea with the Mayer.

Since 1965 the Square has been pedestrianized but some cycling is allowed. The Square is also served by prams (electric trolleys).

The Franciscan Church of Graz has been Franciscan since 1239. The church has a high tower over the chancel. The chancel tower is square in the lower part with four narrow, arched windows. The upper part of the tower is hexagonal, with two windows and two clocks. The whole is topped with an onion dome and spire.

The 14th century chancel sharply contrasts with the low, broader nave. The chancel tower was badly damaged by a bomb in World War II. It was restored with a modern interior. The church is awash with light from stained glass windows and the chancel harbors a gray crucifix of cast iron that seems to float in the air.

The high tower is rare among Franciscan churches and monasteries. The church was built close to the walls of the city. It was considered strategically located and the fortified tower was ordered by civil authorities in the 17th century.

Adjunct to the church Mariae Himmelfahrt is the Franciscan monastery and cloisters. The cloisters offer serenity in the bustle of the city. The monks meet on the first floor oratory for canonical hours. Vespers are open to everyone.

Epitaphs lining the walls of the cloister mention the names, occupations and vital data of the burghers and nobility who are buried there.

An alien biomorphic vessel from outer space has attached itself to the facade and cast iron structures of the old Iron House department store. It is the Art House. Its glistening blue bubble belly shimmers above the ground floor. It fuses softly with the other buildings. It is friendly and welcoming. Visitors enter it from all sides.

THE BIX-media facade (the outer skin) interacts with the surrounding neighborhood. The Art House is described as a multi-disciplinary venue for exhibitions, projects and the performing arts. It provides a spatial palette of experiences.

Visitors penetrate the bubble riding on the "travelator", a 296 foot moving walkway. It slides through the area for children and arrives at the first exhibition level. Another travelator takes riders to the upper level exhibition deck. The shell of the deck is 31 feet high.

The cones and nozzles of the biomorphic skin provide adjustable daylight within and views of the embracing cityscape. Visitors may exit the great bubble and enter the needle. The needle is a cantilevered glass observatory offering incomparable views of Graz. It has comfy seats for readings, plays, events and private meetings.

The Art House doesn't have art collections or exhibits of its own. It is part of the Universalmuseum Joanneum. It does, on a regular basis, offer art from the museum.

New York artist Vito Acconci, creator of Murinsel, describes it as, "A bowl that morphs into a dome that morphs into a bowl." "Murinsel" means "Island in the Mur." It is an other-worldly steel and glass dome/bowl attached to the river banks by footbridges. It was built when Graz became the 2003 European Capital of Culture.

Vito's goal was to design an accessible floating island. It is more of a ship than an island. It is firmly anchored to the riverbed and moored to each bank of the river by footbridges. The form is twisted and curved. It looks like a partially opened sea shell.

As visitors emerge from the footbridges they reach an open amphitheater, Sky blue benches rise up the sides of the amphitheater. They are curved in flowing layers, mimicking the river below. Under the glass dome walkways and tunnels swirl around the inner shell, connecting to the footbridges.

There is a blue and white cafe awaiting visitors. But first, the is a three dimensional maze featuring an array of ropes and a slide. What is an island without ropes and a slide?

The insel reconnects the river to the city. It is an island of "riparian delights" glowing blue in the night.