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Description
The "Grazer Glockenspiel" (Graz Carillon) is located on the roof of the Graz City Hall, which is situated on the main square. The sight is a musical and cultural highlight that uses precise mechanisms to display both the sound and movement of the historically significant figures on the platform.
Procedure of a demonstration
To get the best view of the Graz Carillon, you should position yourself on the main square directly in front of the Town Hall. The performances of the carillon take place three times a day at 11:00, 15:00 and 18:00. After the hour strikes the specific times, a wooden ornate couple in traditional costume emerges from the bull's-eye glass doors in the gable of the building. The figures, created by sculptor Georg Winkler, dance and turn in sync to three songs being played. The melodies played by the bells range from traditional Austrian folk music to contemporary pieces. Above the figures is a moon phase display and a golden rooster that ends the performance by flapping its wings and crowing.
Historical Information
The Graz carillon has its origins in 1884, when the businessman Gottfried Maurer bought a house in Graz and had a carillon installed there. In 1905 the melodies of the 24 bells sounded for the first time. Since it looked as if the figures of the carillon were toasting visitors, Maurer was able to cleverly use the carillon to advertise his wine business. In 1929, Maurer handed over the carillon to the city of Graz with the condition that it continue to be operated. Only during the Second World War did the bells temporarily fall silent.
How to get there
By car: If you are arriving by car, you will find several parking garages and parking facilities near the City Hall on the Hauptplatz.
By public transport: Graz's transportation network is well developed and offers a convenient way to get to the Glockenspiel.
- Tram: Graz has a streetcar network that covers the city well. Lines 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 lead to Hauptplatz, which is in the immediate vicinity of the Glockenspiel.
- Bus: Various bus lines also connect different parts of the city with the center of Graz.
- On foot or bike: Graz is a pedestrian-friendly city and offers bike paths. Since the Glockenspiel is located in the center of Graz, it is easy to find.