Graz

Capital of Styria province, and second-largest city in Austria, situated on the River Mur, 150 km/93 mi southwest of Vienna; population (2003 est) 219,500. Industries include engineering and the manufacture of chemicals, iron, steel, automobiles, precision and optical instruments, paper, textiles, and leather. Tourism is also important. Probably founded in the 12th century, the city has a 15th-century cathedral and a university founded in 1586. Lippizaner horses are bred near here.

Lignite (brown coal) and iron ore are found in the Alpine foothills, where there are also hydroelectric stations. Graz is a market town for a rich agricultural region, and a rail and industrial centre. Since the lifting of the Iron Curtain, Graz has become the gateway to southeast Europe.

Features The city is well laid out with gardens and parks, and is overlooked by the 107 m/350 ft high Schlossberg (once fortified). Its cathedral displays a mixture of Gothic and baroque styles. Other notable buildings include a Renaissance Landhaus (provincial assembly house) and many fine churches. Educational and cultural facilities include the university, technical and music schools, museums (including the Joanneum), and libraries. The city is the seat of a bishopric.