Graz

With approximately 255.000 inhabitants Graz is a particulary fine example of the living heritage of a central European urban complex that was under Habsburg rule for many centuries. The old city is a harmonious blend of the architectural styles and artistic movements that have succeded each other since the Middle Ages, together with cultural influences from the neighbouring regions. The historic city centre of Graz reflects artistic and architectural movements originating from the Germanic region, the Balkans and the Mediterranean, for which it served as a crossroad for centuries. The greatest architects and artists of these different regions expressed themselves forcefully here and thus created brilliant syntheses. The urban complex forming the historic centre of the city of Graz is an exceptional example of a harmonious integration of architectural styles from successive periods. Each age is represented by typical buildings, which are often masterpieces. The urban physiognomy faithfully tells the story of its historic development. The historic city centre of Graz has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in the year 1999.