The Franziskanerviertel (“Franciscan Quarter”) sits in the protective embrace of the Franziskanerkirche. Back in the old days, the area was known as the Kälberne Viertel (“Veal Quarter”). Farmers drove their cattle into town to be slaughtered next to the river. The smell must have been… pungent.
Restaurants, chocolateries, and children’s clothing stores have replaced many of the butchers’ shops, but there are still a few that remain. Today, the quarter has a distinctly Italian feel, with old men shooting the breeze over espresso and old women applying their lipstick in courtyard cafés. After lunch, you might want to take a quiet walk through the Franziskanerkloster.
Tips for Visiting
The Franziskanerviertel is where Graz holds its traditional Adventmarkt (“Christmas Market”). In the week leading up to the holiday, the quarter is scented with cinnamon and packed with stands selling farm goods and handicrafts.