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The castle perched upon a hill in the middle of the city around which Graz sprang up. The funicular (Schloßbergbahn) (10-day and tourist tram/bus ticket covers the ride), and elevator (Schloßberglift) (€2) will take the effort out of the walk to the top, although to use them would be to miss the wooded paths and some spectacular views. Alternatively, you can climb the 260 steps from Schloßbergplatz to the Graz clock tower.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Uhrturm
On the top of the Schloßberg, the symbol of Graz.
It was built as a temporary project during 2003 for the Cultural Capital of Europe (Graz 2003) celebrations. People liked it enough so it stayed. Designed by the New York artist Vito Acconci, this accessible artificial island in the river, contains a stage for performances and a coffeehouse.
Graz's newest exhibition place. It's worth a visit, even if you only look at its design from the outside. It's right across the river from Hauptplatz at the Suedtirolerplatz. (You will definitely notice the blue bubble.)
It comes to life with song and rotating dance figures every day at precisely 11:00, 15:00 and 18:00.
Contains an amazing collection of arms and armor, from large two-handed swords and maces to the more modern pistols. Originally the local armory was built to readily equip the people in the event of an attack, and so the weapons you'll see here were made for use, not show. English tours are available; inquire early in the day to see what time one will be offered. If you are incredibly enthusiastic about weapons and ask nicely, your guide might treat you to further description of the use and care of the weapons after your tour is completed. Pictures are not allowed, but postcards with pictures of the main pieces can be bought in the gift shop. Be warned, this building gets extremely warm in the summer (especially on the upper floors). Weapons enthusiasts may wish to go early in the day, or you may find your interest waning rapidly as the puddles form around your feet. Note without a guide it is just row upon row of armour with no information at all on any items in any language.
Steiermärkische Landesmuseum Joanneum
(cheaper with euro<26 card)