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Graz
Understand
Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, with a population of about 285,000. Some 40,000 of this population is made up of students, as Graz is home to no less than six universities (four "standard" universities and two dedicated solely to applied sciences), and is associated with names as illustrious as Johannes Kepler, Erwin Schrödinger and Nikola Tesla.
The roots of Graz can be traced back to the times of the Romans. They were the first who built a small fort where city centre is today. Later, Slovenians built a heavy fortress where the city center is today. The Slovenian name of the castle is Gradec, which means castle. The name Graz is derived from this name. Graz was first mentioned with its German name in 1128 when dukes of Babenberg turned the place into a commercial centre. During 15th century Graz became the capital of inner Austria (refering to Styria,Carinthia and Carniola) under the rule of the Habsburgs.
As stated above, Graz has a rich history in education expressed by the number of universities in the city. The first university was founded in 1585 (Karl-Franzens-Universität).
Due to its importance as a strategic position, Graz was often assaulted by Ottoman Turks in the 16th century. The fortress located on the Schlossberg (the picture to the right shows the clock tower, which is located on top of the hill) never fell to the Turks. (the only place in this region).
During WWII Graz was part of Nazi Germany. At the end of the war Graz surrendered to Soviet troops. Fortunately the historic old town was not seriously hit during allied bombing raids on the city .
In 2003 Graz was the Cultural Capital of Europe.
Graz is also known for the Magna Steyr (formerly called Steyr-Daimler-Puch) automobile and truck manufacturing plant located there.
It is also the birthplace (in nearby Thal) of actor and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Its UPC-Arena was renamed in Schwarzenegger's honor in 1997, but was renamed again in 2005 following controversy over the governor's support of California's death penalty.
Phone: The local area code is (0)316. The country code for Austria is +43.
Eat
Budget Saegewerk, Schlögelgasse 1 (near Dietrichsteinplatz) , Tel: 820258 - they serve excellent and cheap pizza. Posaune, Zinzendorfgasse (near KF University) - Like the Saegewerk.3 GOLDENE KUGELN, 5 restaurants in Graz, Griesplatz(next to the telekom tower), Heinrichstrasse(near K.F.University) , Riesplatz, Annenstrasse(near Hauptbahnhof) and Citypark. Austrian cuisine. large portions!!!, very reasonable prices.
Mid-Range Traminer Weinstube, Klosterwiesgasse 2 (for all practical purposes, located directly on a corner of Jakominiplatz) - good south-tyrolean wines and fine (almost exclusively organic) food for reasonable prices. The 'Tramina', as it is called, offers a laid-back atmosphere without neglecting it's long tradition and features art exhibitions and live jazz once a week.Braun de Praun, Morellenfeldgasse 32, Tel: 0316/322093 - Which has an incredible huge menu and reasonable prices.Brot & Spiele, Mariahilferstrasse 17, Tel: 715081 - They offer american and asian style food for reasonable prices (go for the steaks)Gloeckl Braeu, Glockenspielplatz 2-3, Tel: 814781...
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Hotels in Graz
 | Das Weitzer  |
Score 7.775 from 44 reviews | | Grieskai 12-16 |  |
| Built in 1872, the Weitzer Hotel in Graz houses 200 guestrooms. The hotel is one of Graz finest hotels, a masterpiece created in the heart of Graz theatre, cultural and business district.
Free wireless broadband internet access is provided in the hotel lobby.
... more | | |
 | Hotel SÜD |
Score 8.35 from 67 reviews | | Stemmerweg 10 | |
| You can access the internet in the hotel's lobby free of charge. ... more | | |
 | Landhotel Locker |
Score 8.5 from 1 reviews | | Parkstraße 29 | |
| A very warm welcome on behalf of the Locker-Heuberger family.
Enjoy warm hospitality and a cosy atmosphere in our inn and hotel, where you can enjoy the splendour of old traditions in settings which accommodate your modern needs.
Our chief aim is to ensure that each and every one of our guests feels as relaxed and at home as possible. ... more | | |
 | Hotel Reif - Urdlwirt  |
Score 8 from 4 reviews | | Hauptstraße 85 | |
| A broadband Internet connection is available in every room. Guests enjoy free use of the sauna and the steam bath, as well as free entrance to the Schwarzl Leisure Centre. ... more | | |
 | Austria Trend Hotel Europa Graz |
Score 8.475 from 28 reviews | | Bahnhofgürtel 89 | |
| There are 5 well equipped, soundproofed seminar rooms, with a capacity of up to 230 people.
The hotel is accessible to disabled guests. ... more | | |
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| | | More hotels in Graz |
Castle Eggenberg
Built in 1625 for Hans Ulrich of Eggenberg this castle is somehow the “Escorial” of Styria. Some 4 km west of the town centre (at the end of Tram line 1) the luxurious castle of Ferdinand II’s First Minister Eggenberg shows both architectural art at the outside and archeological treasures at the integrated musem, where the collection is strong on prehistory. Its most valued exhibit it the Strettweg chariot – a remarkable wheeled platform peopled by small, weapon-wielding figures dating back to the 8th century BC.
| type: | Hotspots |
| address: | Eggenberger Allee 90 |
| openings: | daily 9am – noon, 1 – 5pm |
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5 hours |
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Travel over the hills to the home of the famous white horses of The Spanish Riding School - the Lipizzaner Stud in West Styria. This afternoon trip is not only for horse fanciers. It is for anyone who has a taste for the play of the light on the hills, or the gleam in the glass of a unique Schilcher wine that glows with the color of onion skins, or the dark glint of pumpkin seed oil. You will also see St. Barbara's Church in Bärnbach, with multicolored decorations by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Whatever your taste, it is sure to become even more refined as you enjoy a tour that captures not only the beauty of Austria, but it's heart as well.
Click here for more information and Booking Details
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Mausoleum of Ferdinand II
Located a bit up the hill near the Domkirche the Mausoleum is a fine example of the early Baroque style, begun in 1614 when its intended incumbent was a healthy 36-year-old.
| type: | general |
| address: | Stempfergasse |
| openings: | Mon – Thu & Sat 11am – noon and 2-3pm |
| Afternoon Tour to Riegersburg Castle - A Trip to Styrian Volcano Land |
5 hours |
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There's nothing like seeing a European castle before you. All the history, tales and legends are here - right in front of you.
Enjoy a trip up the hillside lift, taking 90 seconds to reach the top, where the castle stands. Built over 850 years ago, the castle sits on a volcanic hill, overlooking the lush vineyards of Southeast Styria.
On arrival you will have a guided tour of the castle, after which you will have a small amount of free time to visit the basement which holds an interesting Witch Exhibition.
Come see the magnificent views of this region and enjoy a sample of the local culinary treats on offer.
There will be a stop at Buschenschank Bernhart where bread with a local ham is served and a glass of wine. You will also have the chance to purchase products such as local wines and juices during the stop.
Click here for more information and Booking Details
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