The Graz Clock Tower – Timeless Symbol Overlooking the City
Standing proudly atop the Schlossberg hill, the Graz Clock Tower (Uhrturm) is far more than just a timepiece. With its wooden balconies, distinct roof, and quirky reversed hands, it’s the beating heart of Graz and a symbol of the city's resilience, history, and charm. Visible from almost every angle in the Old Town, it beckons visitors upward—promising a view, a story, and a step back in time.
A Tower Shaped by Time and History
The Graz Clock Tower, as we see it today, dates back to the 16th century, though earlier versions may have stood here long before. Originally part of the city’s fortifications, the tower gained its distinctive character in the 1560s. But perhaps its most dramatic moment came in 1809, when Napoleon’s forces ordered the destruction of the Schlossberg’s defenses. While most of the fortress was demolished, the Uhrturm was spared—not by luck, but by love. Citizens of Graz pooled funds to ransom their beloved tower, saving it from ruin. This act of civic pride etched the Uhrturm even deeper into the soul of the city. Since then, it has stood not only as a lookout, but also as a monument to the spirit of Graz’s people.
The Curious Case of the Clock Hands
One of the first things visitors notice about the Uhrturm is that something seems... off. And they’d be right: the hands of the clock are reversed. The larger hand shows the hours, while the smaller one shows the minutes—a counterintuitive setup by today’s standards. This was no error, though. In earlier centuries, clocks were designed mainly to show the hour, and it was important that this could be seen from a distance—hence the large hour hand. The minute hand was added later, and to preserve the look and logic of the original design, it was made smaller. This quirk has become part of the tower’s identity and adds to the delight of discovery for observant visitors.
Fun Facts
- The Uhrturm stands approximately 28 meters tall and is built on a natural stone foundation.
- Its current clock mechanism has been running since 1712 and is still wound manually several times a week.
- The tower houses three historic bells: one for the hour, one that once signaled fires, and another that marked executions.
- The surrounding park and footpaths were developed during the 19th century as part of a beautification effort after the fortress was dismantled.
- The Clock Tower is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Graz.
A Must-See Viewpoint with Soul
Reaching the Uhrturm isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s an experience. Whether you climb the historic steps or glide up via the Schlossbergbahn or glass elevator, the reward is a sweeping panorama of Graz. Terracotta rooftops, winding alleys, the Mur river, and distant Styrian hills all unfold beneath you. It’s the kind of view that invites you to pause. Add to this the hum of nearby cafés, the occasional ring of the clock bell, and the warmth of a setting sun, and you’ll understand why this tower is more than architecture—it’s the soul of the city. Don’t leave Graz without standing here, breathing it all in.