Graz

Graz. It is the capital of the federal state of Styria and Austria's second-largest city after Vienna. Situated on the Mur River in the southeast of the country, the city is known for its well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its vibrant student population. Graz serves as an important economic, cultural, and educational hub, hosting several universities including the University of Graz and the Graz University of Technology.

History

The area of Graz has been continuously settled since the Copper Age, with a fortress built on the Schlossberg hill during the Early Middle Ages. It was first mentioned as 'Gradec' in a document from 1128, gaining town rights under the Babenberg dukes. Under the rule of the House of Habsburg, it became a crucial defensive bulwark against the Ottoman Empire, repelling numerous sieges in the 16th century. The city flourished as a residence of the Inner Austrian Habsburg line, with architectural landmarks like the Landhaus and the Cathedral constructed during this Renaissance period. In 1585, the University of Graz was founded by Archduke Charles II of Austria. Graz endured occupations by Napoleon's forces in 1797 and 1809, leading to the demolition of the fortress on the Schlossberg. The 19th century brought industrialization, and in the 20th century, the city witnessed the rise of Nazi power and suffered Allied bombing during World War II. In 1999, its historic centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it served as the European Capital of Culture in 2003.

Geography

Graz is located in the Styrian Basin on the banks of the Mur River, roughly 150 kilometers southwest of Vienna. The city is bordered by the Graz Basin and framed by forested hills, most notably the 473-meter-high Schlossberg which rises abruptly in the city centre. Other significant hills include the Plabutsch and the Rosenberg. The Mur flows through the city from north to south, and the Kunsthaus and the Murinsel are prominent modern structures on its banks. The metropolitan area extends into the surrounding Alpine foothills and the fertile plains of Southern Styria.

Demographics

As of 2024, Graz has a population of approximately 298,000 inhabitants, making it the second-most populous city in Austria. The city has a significant student population due to institutions like the University of Graz, the Graz University of Technology, and the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz. Historically predominantly Roman Catholic, the demographic landscape has diversified, with growing communities of Protestants, Eastern Orthodox Christians, and Muslims. A portion of the population are Slovenes, reflecting the city's historical position near the Slovene Lands.

Economy

Graz is a major economic centre for Southern Austria. It has a strong industrial base, historically centered on Steyr-Daimler-Puch and now home to global players like Magna Steyr in the automotive sector. The city is a hub for R&D, particularly in vehicle technology, biotech, and environmental technology, supported by the Joanneum Research institutes. Other important economic sectors include insurance, with companies like UNIQA, and retail trade. The Graz Airport and the city's trade fair grounds, Messe Graz, facilitate commerce and hosting events like the Austrian Open.

Culture

Graz boasts a rich cultural scene, anchored by its UNESCO-listed Old Town featuring the Clock Tower, the Cathedral, and the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II. Modern architectural icons include the Kunsthaus Graz and the Murinsel. The city is renowned for its festivals, such as the Styriarte festival of classical music and the avant-garde steirischer herbst. Major institutions include the Universalmuseum Joanneum, one of the largest of its kind in Europe, the Opera, and the Schauspielhaus theatre. Culinary specialties of the region include Pumpkin seed oil and Styrian wine.

Transport

Graz is a key transport node in Southeastern Austria. The central railway station, Graz Hauptbahnhof, offers connections to Vienna, Salzburg, Klagenfurt, and international destinations like Maribor and Zagreb. The city's public transport is managed by Holding Graz and features an extensive network of trams and buses. Major road connections include the A2 and A9 motorways. Graz Airport provides flights to several European cities. For local mobility, the Schlossberg is accessible by the Schlossbergbahn funicular and an elevator.