Graz

As the capital of the Styria province, Graz serves as a fascinating taste of cultural, historical and architectural wonders.  Shaped by Romans, Slavs and Bavarians, the culture of Graz remains distinct and celebrated as the wonder it is.

Established in prehistory, Graz quickly became an enzyme of distinct cultural activity. Boasting  Jesuit and Lutheran education centers by the end of the 16th century, Graz quickly became an epicenter of fine arts and served as the home of many scholars, including astronomer John Kepler. When Napolean’s army defeated Austria during the battle of Wagram in 1809, a treaty was signed resulting in the demolition of the Schlossberg’s Battlements. However, due to a high ransom paid by the inhabitants of Graz, the Uhrturm (Clock Tower) and bell tower were spared. Also surviving to date are the Schlossberg castle, stunning Cathedral and surrounding Gothic architecture.

Today, Graz’s rich culture and stunning beauty make it a fabulous tourism center. Hot-air ballooning and hiking through the countryside are a favourite, as well as the Steierischer Herbst (Styrian Autumn) festival, which features contemporary art, music and literature. The festival has a reputation for being avante-garde and presents everything from jazz to mime. Graz’s three universities, opera house, theatre, museums, concert halls and art galleries pay homage to the rich culture of Syria’s capital.