Styrian Armoury, Graz, Austria

The Styrian Armoury (Landeszeughaus) is the world's largest historic armoury and attracts visitors from all over the world. It holds approximately 32,000 pieces of weaponry, tools, suits of armour for battle and ones for parades.

Between the 15th century and the 18th century, Styria was on the front line of almost continuous conflict with the Ottoman Empire and with rebels in Hungary. In order to defend itself it needed troops and these troops needed equipment. The Styrian Armoury results from the resulting need to store large quantities of armour and weapons, and was built from 1642 - 1645 by a Tyrolean architect called Antonio Solar.

After about 100 years in use, Austrian empress Maria Theresia wanted to close down the armoury, as part of her centralisation of the defence of Austria. Nevertheless Styria petitioned for the ongoing existence of the armoury for both practical and sentimental reasons. Their petition was accepted and the Armoury was left intact, but largely decommissioned.

References:

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Museums in Austria

User Reviews

Sandra Scott (2 years ago)
Absolutely amazing collection of military weapons in the armoury. Even if this isn't really your thing, you should go for a look. Tens of thousands of weapons all lined up together makes for fascinating viewing. No bags allowed but there are little lockers you pay 1 euro for, but then get your money back when you retrieve your bag. Also there's an audio guide you can download beforehand if you want information as there isn't any at all alongside any of the objects. Make sure to look up when you're there. Many objects stored on the ceiling.

Vasilis Karakostas (2 years ago)
Amazing war museum, is the first time in my life I saw a huge gun's collection like this one. Definitely a must place to visit! Tickets cost 10€, the place is not pet friendly but the cashier keep mine at her place, so kind of her ☺️. There is no parking available around the museum.

Sanela Puljiz (2 years ago)
A paradise for lovers of history and weapons. On four floors you can see an incredible amount of well-preserved weapons and equipment. The museum is in an excellent location near the center and is very easy to find. On the ground floor you can find numerous and unique souvenirs.

Magnus Hansen (2 years ago)
Great museum with a ton of armours and weapons (Over 32.000 items!) We took a guided tour, with a very friendly and knowledgeable guide. It was very cheap for students, 4 euro to get in, 2.5 euro for the tour. I definitely recommend going there.

Ivan Rebic (3 years ago)
Absolutely loved it! If you like medieval weapons and armor, or enjoy history than this is a MUST see! Tickets cost us 10.5 EUR per person and it was well worth it - the museum spans across 4 stories in the building and is full of carefully maintained weapons and armor. You will find many sets of armor and shields as well as individual parts - helmets, chest sets, leg sets, as well as a FULL SET of horse armor! There is also a huge variety of swords, daggers, greatswords, pikes, muskets... All of them are well sorted and in amazing shape. There's also a few canons and mortars. The staff is nice and helpful and you get a paper mini guide that covers some of the items exhibited. 6/5, very recommended!

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