We continued our weekend in Graz with Csaba by visiting the double spiral staircase, also known as the “Steps of Reconciliation” or Doppelwendeltreppe.
Built around 1500 in the Gothic period, it is unique because of its intertwined twin staircases, which run in opposite directions but periodically merge at each level. This design allows two people to walk up separately and occasionally meet at intermediate landings, symbolizing unity after breakaway.
We passed through the Barometer Park to the largest church in the city, called the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was designed by architect Georg Hauberrisser and built between 1881 and 1887. Its tower is 109.6 meters high, making it the third tallest church tower in Austria. Of particular note are the stained glass windows, which are the few surviving examples of neo-Gothic stained glass in Austria.
The Art Museum Graz (Kunsthaus Graz) was our last attraction. We had a coffee in the café downstairs before going inside. Although I love modern art, now the building seemed more interesting than the exhibitions inside. The building has a good view of the city. In the museum’s shop, of course, we bought a few small items before leaving for home.
