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Mausoleum of Kaiser Ferdinand II: A Testament to Imperial Power

Discover the imperial grandeur of Graz in this Mannerist-Baroque masterpiece, the final resting place of Emperor Ferdinand II.

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The Mausoleum of Kaiser Ferdinand II in Graz is a striking architectural monument blending Mannerist and early Baroque styles. Commissioned by Ferdinand II as his final resting place, it stands as a symbol of imperial power and religious conviction, showcasing elaborate decorations, frescoes, and the Habsburg dynasty's influence.

A brief summary to Mausoleum Kaiser Ferdinands II.

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season and day of the week.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history, architecture, and art of the Mausoleum.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Graz Cathedral and St. Catherine's Church to experience the city's 'Crown'.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing some walking and climbing stairs to access the crypt.
  • Photography is allowed, but flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect the artwork.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Mausoleum is located in the heart of Graz's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Hauptplatz (main square), walk east along Hauptplatz, then turn right onto Hofgasse. Continue onto Burggasse; the Mausoleum will be on your right, next to the Graz Cathedral.

  • Public Transport

    The Mausoleum is well-served by Graz's public transport network. Take tram lines 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, or 23 to the 'Südtiroler Platz/Kunsthaus' stop. From there, walk east along Neutorgasse, turn right onto Bürgergasse, and then left onto Burggasse. The Mausoleum will be on your right, next to the Graz Cathedral. A single ride ticket within Zone 101 costs €3.10.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Graz. A taxi ride from Graz Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the Mausoleum typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. The base fare for a taxi is around €5.00, with a per-km charge ranging from €2.50 to €3.00.

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Discover more about Mausoleum Kaiser Ferdinands II.

The Mausoleum of Kaiser Ferdinand II, located in the heart of Graz, Austria, is an imposing structure that represents a significant chapter in the city's and the Habsburg dynasty's history. Conceived as a symbol of imperial power and religious conviction, the mausoleum is one of the most important buildings of the early 17th century in Austria. Its architectural style, a fusion of Mannerism and early Baroque, reflects the transitional period between the Renaissance and the full bloom of the Baroque era. The history of the Mausoleum is intertwined with the life and reign of Emperor Ferdinand II (1578-1637). Born in Graz, Ferdinand was a staunch Catholic and a key figure in the Counter-Reformation. He commissioned the mausoleum in 1614 as his final resting place and a testament to his faith. The construction was entrusted to Giovanni Pietro de Pomis, an Italian architect and painter who served as Ferdinand's court artist. De Pomis designed a complex consisting of St. Catherine's Church (Katharinenkirche) and the adjacent mausoleum chapel. The architecture of the Mausoleum is notable for its synthesis of Italian and Central European influences. The exterior is characterized by a symmetrical facade with classical elements such as columns, pilasters, and a triangular pediment. The use of light-colored stone and the articulation of the facade create a sense of grandeur and solemnity. The most striking feature of the Mausoleum is its turquoise dome, an oval structure that was the first of its kind built outside Italy. The dome not only dominates the Graz skyline but also symbolizes resurrection and eternal life. Inside, the Mausoleum is richly decorated with stucco work, frescoes, and sculptures. Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach's contributions are particularly noteworthy, as he created an elaborate decorative program that celebrates the Habsburg dynasty and the Catholic faith. The frescoes on the dome depict scenes from the life of St. Catherine of Alexandria, the patron saint of the adjacent church. The crypt beneath the chapel houses the remains of Emperor Ferdinand II, his first wife, Maria Anna of Bavaria, and other members of the Habsburg family. The most prominent feature of the crypt is the red marble sarcophagus of Maria of Bavaria, Ferdinand's mother. Ferdinand himself is buried in a more modest tomb in the wall of the chapel. Visiting the Mausoleum offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of art, history, and religion.

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