Archduke Johann and Styria: A Graz Walking Tour
The Habsburg who modernized Styria
TopicSteiermark- Duration
- 2.0 hours
- Languages
- German, English
This private themed tour of Graz follows Archduke Johann, still the most beloved Habsburg in Styria. You will see what he founded, from the Joanneum museum to his ideas for farming, railways and education.
Archduke Johann, a brother of Emperor Francis I, made Styria his chosen home. In 1811 he founded the Joanneum in Graz, one of Austria's oldest museums, and promoted agriculture, industry and the building of the Southern Railway.
He caused a stir by marrying Anna Plochl, a postmaster's daughter from Bad Aussee who was far below his rank. Your guide tells these stories at the main square with the Archduke Johann fountain, the Joanneum quarter and the Landhaus, and shows why the 'Styrian prince' still lives on in songs and traditional dress.
This is a private tour: just your own group, your pace and plenty of time for questions. Our licensed guides are happy to adjust the focus to your interests before the day.
Highlights
- The Archduke Johann fountain on Hauptplatz
- The Joanneum quarter and its 1811 founding
- His love story with Anna Plochl
- Johann's impact on railways, schools and farming
- Styrian dress and local memory
The route
-
1Hauptplatz
The fountain and the four rivers of Styria.
-
2Landhaus
Johann and the Styrian estates.
-
3Joanneum quarter
From the first museum to today's Universalmuseum.
-
4Herrengasse and Stempfergasse
Townhouses and shops from Johann's era.
Who this tour is for
Culture lovers, visitors with Styrian roots and groups who enjoy history told through people.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included?
No. Entrance fees for the Joanneum museums are not included in the tour price and are paid on site. Your guide will let you know in advance which tickets you will need.
How is the price calculated?
This is a private tour, so you pay one price per group, not per person. The amount depends on the duration and group size, and you receive a quote with your request.
What do the figures on the Archduke Johann fountain mean?
The four female figures represent the rivers Mur, Enns, Drava and Savinja, which all belonged to historic Styria. Your guide explains why two of them now flow through Slovenia.
