Graz

Graz (Slovenian: Gradec, pronounced grah-dets), with a population of 300,000 (in 2005) is the second-largest city in Austria and the capital of the federal state of Styria (Steiermark in German). It has a long tradition as a student city, with four Universities and two Universities of Applied Sciences with over 50,000 students. Graz's "Old Town" is one of the best-preserved city centers in Central Europe, and was recently included in the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage Sites. In 2003 Graz was named Cultural Capital of Europe.

Attractions

In the last few years new public buildings have been erected within the city. The most famous ones are the "Kunsthaus" (house of modern art) by Peter Cook (architect) and Colin Fournier, a museum which is constructed right next to the river Mur, and the "Murinsel" (island in the Mur) which is an island made out of steel, situated in the river. It was designed by the American architect Vito Acconci and contains a cafeteria, an open-air theatre and a playground.

Related Topics:
Peter Cook (architect) - Colin Fournier - Murinsel - Vito Acconci

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Olga Neuwirth, one of the most important contemporary Austrian composers was born here. Conductor Nikolaus Harnoncourt, known throughout the world for his performances of classical works on period instruments, was raised in Graz, having been born in Berlin. Current California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has sometimes regarded himself as a Grazer, although he was born and raised in a small farming village, Thal, about 2 km from the city.

Related Topics:
Olga Neuwirth - Nikolaus Harnoncourt - Berlin - California - Arnold Schwarzenegger - Thal

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The first Austrian formula 1 champion Jochen Rindt was raised in Graz by his grandmother.

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Since 1999 the old town centre of Graz has been listed as World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. During the year 2003 Graz had the title of "Cultural capital of Europe".

Related Topics:
World Cultural Heritage - UNESCO - Cultural capital of Europe

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There are many festivals taking place in the city every summer such as the "Jazz Sommer", "La Strada" or "Classics in the City". They can be visited by everyone without paying an entrance fee, except for some LaStrada arrangements.

Related Topics:
Jazz Sommer - La Strada - Classics in the City

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