The Enchanting Charm of Gries in Graz

• HelloServus
  [SAYR-voos]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf VEE-dur-zayn]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNein
  [nyne]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [BIT-tuh]
• Thank youDanke
  [DAHN-kuh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-SHOOL-dee-goong]
• How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee gayt es deer]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oont deer]
• Do you speak English?Sprichst du Englisch?
  [shpreekhst doo ENG-lish]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-SHTAY-uh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [ikh merkh-teh BIT-tuh dee SHPY-zuh-kahr-teh zay-en]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ESS-uh kine flysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [ikh merkh-teh BIT-tuh ZAH-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [HEEL-fuh]
• Go away!Geh weg!
  [geh vekh]
• Call the Police!Ruf die Polizei!
  [roof dee po-lee-tsay]
• Call a doctor!Ruf einen Arzt!
  [roof I-nen ahrts]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh HAH-buh meekh feh-REERT]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been krahngk]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh merkh-teh KOW-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh SHOW-eh noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet das?
  [vee feel KAWS-tet dahs]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo TOO-er]
• Can you lower the price?Kannst du den Preis senken?
  [kah-nst doo den prise ZEN-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
• Half past (10)Halb elf
  [halb elf]
• MorningMorgen
  [morr-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahk-mitt-ahk]
• EveningAbend
  [AH-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [geh-stern]
• TodayHeute
  [HOY-tuh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [morr-gen]
• 1Eins
  [ine-s]
• 2Zwei
  [tsv-eye]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [foonf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [ahkt]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [voh ist iyn/dehr]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-dreh-suh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kannst du mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [kah-nst doo meer tsay-gen (owf dehr KAR-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr NEKH-stuh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [I-nuh FAHR-kahr-teh (nahkh)]

Gries, located on the right bank of the Mur River, has a history that dates back to the early medieval period. Originally a separate village, Gries was first mentioned in historical records in 1283. Its proximity to Graz allowed it to develop as an important settlement for trade and agriculture, contributing to the growth of the surrounding region.

In the 19th century, Gries experienced significant industrial growth due to its favorable location near Graz. The establishment of textile factories and other industries transformed the neighbourhood into an industrial hub. This period marked a demographic shift as workers moved to Gries for employment opportunities, leading to increased urbanization.

Gries is home to several notable architectural landmarks, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. The iconic Gries Church, built in the late 19th century, showcases neo-Gothic architecture and serves as a focal point for the local community. Additionally, the area features a mix of historical and modern buildings, which illustrate the blend of past and present in Graz.

During World War II, Gries, like many parts of Austria, faced significant challenges. The neighbourhood was affected by the war's devastation, with many buildings damaged or destroyed. Post-war reconstruction efforts sought to restore Gries, leading to a renewed focus on community and cultural revival.

Today, Gries is a vibrant neighbourhood that balances its historical roots with contemporary life. The area has seen revitalization in recent years, with new businesses, cultural events, and community initiatives that celebrate both its history and its diverse population. Gries remains an integral part of Graz, contributing to the city's overall character and charm.

Gries is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Graz. If you're arriving by train, the main station, Graz Hauptbahnhof, is just a short tram ride away. You can take tram line 1 or 7 to reach the Gries area. Alternatively, local buses like line 30 also connect the central areas to Gries. For those driving, Gries is conveniently located near the A2 motorway, with parking available in various spots around the neighborhood.

Gries is well-connected by public transport, including trams and buses. Tram lines 1 and 7 frequently run through the area, making it easy to explore nearby neighborhoods. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with bike lanes available. You can rent bicycles from local shops or use Graz's bike-sharing system. Walking is another great way to experience the neighborhood as many attractions are within a short distance.

Gries is generally a safe neighborhood; however, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious in crowded spots. While specific areas with high crime rates targeting tourists are not widely reported in Gries, it’s wise to keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in busy public transport or market areas.

In case of an emergency, dial the local emergency number 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. For non-emergency police issues, you can contact local police stations. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available throughout Gries for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Don't wear overly casual or revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions, especially in churches. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on trams or buses. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake; a friendly smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food and drinks; it's a way to engage with local culture. Don’t engage in loud or disruptive behavior in restaurants or cafés.

To experience Gries like a local, visit the weekly farmers’ market at Griesplatz, where you can find fresh produce and local goods. Engage with local shopkeepers and try traditional Styrian dishes at nearby restaurants. If you're interested in arts and culture, check out local galleries and community events for a taste of the vibrant local scene. Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to stroll along the Mur River, where you can enjoy scenic views and the relaxed atmosphere.