Graz Castle

Construction of Graz Castle began in 1438 under Duke Frederick V, later Emperor Frederick III. After its completion in 1453, the castle later became the seat of the Inner Austrian Archdukes when Graz became the capital of Inner Austria in 1564. This new importance led to extensive renovations and expansions. With the coronation of Archduke Ferdinand II as Emperor in 1619 and his relocation to Vienna, the castle lost its function as a princely residence and fell into disrepair. Over the centuries, several renovations took place, but these only affected parts of the building fabric. A portion of the castle was deemed dilapidated in 1822 and was demolished between 1853 and 1854. Further structural additions followed at the beginning of the 20th century. Since 1922, Graz Castle has been the official residence of the Governor of Styria. During World War II, the building suffered severe damage, which was repaired starting in 1947. Between 1950 and 1952, new buildings were erected, now known as the New Castle.

Graz Castle is located in Graz-Innere Stadt, in the Graz Stadt district in Styria, Austria, at an elevation of approximately 377 m above sea level.

Today, Graz Castle houses not only the office of the Governor but also departments of the Styrian provincial government. Only the castle courtyards and the impressive double spiral staircase are accessible to the public.

• Graz Cathedral (sacred building), approx. 0.1 km away
• Palais Schwarzenberg (residence), approx. 0.1 km away
• Palais Lengheimb (residence), approx. 0.1 km away
• Stadtpalais Dorotheum (residence), approx. 0.1 km away