Description of the attraction
It is a monastery founded in the first half of the 13th century by the Franciscan brothers on the banks of the Mur River in the center of the Austrian city of Graz in Styria. It was the first religious institution in the urban area of Graz. In the 16th century, the monastery passed to one of the branches of the Franciscans - the Order of the Lesser Brothers, in whose possession it remains today.
Soon afterwards, generous donations were collected for the construction of a Gothic three-aisled hall. The construction was completed in 1519. The West Tower was built in 1636-1643 as a defensive tower. The former pointed spire was replaced in 1740 by a green bulbous dome. In addition, a refectory was created, and a new altar was consecrated. In 1770, the Olive Chapel was dismantled and walled up into the walls. In 1783, the monastery church received the status of a parish church, after which daily services began to be held in it.
The interior of the monastery church is notable for its richness, a large number of stucco decorations, paintings and statues. All furnishings are made in the Baroque style. The central altar of the church is located on a certain elevation. The bell tower houses one of the oldest bells in Graz, it was created in 1272.
During the Second World War, the church was badly damaged by bombing. The restoration was carried out in 1954-1955.
