Herrengasse, Graz, Austria
Broad and busy, Herrengasse is the main street through the inner city. It begins at the Der Platz Am Eisernen Tor (“Place at the Iron Gate”), where the former city gate once stood, and ends at the Hauptplatz and its tram station. It’s a good place to start your meanderings.
Saint Florian, Herrengasse, Graz, Austria
St. Florian watches over chimney sweeps, firefighters, and soapmakers. (Note the fire bucket in his left hand.) Born in the 3rd century, Florian was a successful Roman commander and proto-Austrian (his birthplace is in Sankt Pölten). His job was quench any flames – figurative or literal – that might arise
Stadtpfarrkirche, Herrengasse, Graz, Austria
Hidden in Graz’s Parish Church is a damning indictment of 20th century fascism. Take a close look at the stained glass window in the chancel. You’ll see 2 familiar figures – Hitler and Mussolini – among the torturers of Christ at the crucifixion. Their place in hell was guaranteed by
Continue readingStadtpfarrkirche, Herrengasse, Graz, Austria
Gemaltes Haus (Painted House), Herzoghof, Graz, Austria
Although they may appear like the products of a modern tanning bed, the Greco-Roman gods and goddesses on #7 Herrengasse are the work of the Baroque painter, Johann Mayer. Until A.D. 1450, when Graz Castle was built, Herzoghof (“Duke’s Court”) was the seat of the Dukes of Styria. Later in
Continue readingGemaltes Haus (Painted House), Herzoghof, Graz, Austria