Graz

Graz is the capital of the Austrian state of Styria and the second-largest city in Austria after Vienna. Located on the Mur River, it is a major cultural, educational, and economic center with a large student population and a long history dating back to the Middle Ages.

The historic centre of Graz is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Central Europe. Its streets weave a continuum of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999. Key sights include the Hauptplatz (Main Square) framed by the Landhaus, the Rathaus, and surrounding guild houses, as well as the Schlossberg hill, crowned by the Uhrturm (clock tower).

In addition to its old town, Graz features modern landmarks such as the Murinsel, a striking floating platform in the middle of the River Mur, and the Kunsthaus Graz, a contemporary art museum famous for its distinctive blue, organic shape. The Cathedral of Graz and several churches contribute to the city's religious and architectural landscape.

Graz is a renowned university town. The University of Graz (Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz) was founded in 1585, and Graz University of Technology was established in 1811, together underpinning strong research and higher education. The city hosts a range of cultural institutions, galleries, and festivals throughout the year.

Graz has an integrated public transport network of trams and buses and is served by Graz Hauptbahnhof, its main railway station, linking it with Vienna, Salzburg, and other cities. Its economy is diversified, with education, services, and manufacturing playing major roles.