Franciscan Abbey

Graz, Austria

The Franciscan monastery in Graz was founded by the Franciscan order, who still own it, and is first mentioned in 1239. In the church, a high but narrow 14th-century chancel contrasts with the comparatively low and wide nave. The chancel was gutted by a bomb in World War II, and subsequently rebuilt with a new contemporary interior. The stained glass windows bathe the church in light, whilst the chancel is dominated by a grey cast iron crucifix that seems to hover.

The original Gothic cloisters of the monastery enclose a monastery garden, and are open to the public. The walls of the cloister are lined with the names, professions and life data of the distinguished burghers and noblemen who were buried in this place between the 15th and the 18th centuries. On the first floor of the monastery, with windows looking into the chancel of the church, is the oratory, where the friars meet for their holy offices.

The high tower, one of the more prominent Graz landmarks, is unusual for a Franciscan establishment. It owes its existence to the church's strategic location next to the city walls, and was built as a fortified tower by the city authorities in the 17th century.

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Founded: 13th century
Category: Religious sites in Austria

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Byron Khan (2 years ago)
Definitely unique structural church near the river !
Andrea Nori (2 years ago)
Definitely one of the most beautiful churches that you can find in the city! Anyway, I don't know why, but I couldn't enter when I got there, even if Google Maps told me it was open!
Klaus Wanderer (3 years ago)
The tower can be seen from many vantage points and is a landmark of the city. I must have been very unlucky during my visit, this church was also closed every time I tried to go in, it's a bit cramped between all the buildings but the tower stands out
Iren Oliinik (4 years ago)
A beautiful church
Patricia Brocker (6 years ago)
Beautiful church in the city go there often
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