Almost like the clock tower, the tower of the Franziskanerkirche characterizes city views of Graz.

It belongs to the oldest monastery in the city, founded in 1239 as a Minorite monastery. In the southwest, directly at the city wall - a strategically important place. Thus the mighty tower, unusual for mendicant orders, was built as a city tower by order of the city government in the 17th century.

An atmospheric cloister is open to all people as a place of silence in the middle of the city.

Whoever enters the Franciscan Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is usually touched by the simplicity that Gothic architecture exudes in combination with 20th century works of art. The high, narrow 14th century choir room stands out from the relatively low, wide nave. It was badly damaged by a bomb hit during the Second World War. After the reconstruction, it was decided to have the interior decorated in a contemporary style by Styrian artists. Coloured glass windows bathe the room in spherical light. A simple, seemingly floating crucifix made of cast iron dominates the chancel. Since December 2004, the latest contemporary work of art has met with great approval in the Franciscan Church - the boldly designed organ by the Potsdam-based company Schuke.

The originally Gothic cloister encloses an idyllic small monastery garden. Benches invite you to rest. On the walls of the cloister, numerous epitaphs show the names, professions and dates of life of the distinguished citizens and nobles of Graz who were buried here from the 15th to the 18th century. The small, contemplative Jacobi chapel in the cloister combines elements of the Gothic, Baroque and Neo-Gothic styles.

On the first floor - with a line of sight to the choir of the church - the oratory. Here the monks meet for common prayer. But everyone is invited to take part in Vespers. To an atmospheric room within the room. Designed in 2003 as a light wooden construction with coloured glass elements by architect Lingenhöle.

*Accessibility

  • Church: Designated disabled parking in front of the church. Level access to the church possible without assistance
  • Cloister: Access via the Franciscan square and a 5cm step without assistance
  • No handicapped accessible WC

Informations de contact

Informations complémentaires:
http://www.franziskaner-graz.at

Demandes à:
graz@franziskaner.at