Graz districts for explorers
Gries

Graz Central Cemetery: Quiet paths, big names & lots of history

Aerial view of Graz Central Cemetery with symmetrical grave field structure, wide tree-lined avenues and the central, imposing neo-Gothic cemetery church with dome and red tiled roof - embedded in green parkland against the city backdrop of Graz
Symbol photo

If you think cemeteries are only places of mourning, then you have Graz Central Cemetery Not yet visited. Located in the southern part of Gries, this quiet, expansive park is steeped in history and invites you to pause and reflect. Instead of the hustle and bustle, you'll find tree-lined avenues, ancient trees, impressive tombs—and stories dating back to the 19th century.

With approximately 250,000 buried remains, the Central Cemetery is not only the largest cemetery in Graz, but also a place where culture, architecture, and nature meet in a fascinating way. From neo-Gothic churches to honorary graves to hidden corners with an almost enchanted charm: Those who take the time here will discover much more than just a place of farewell.

A walk through the Central Cemetery is also a journey through time – and a wonderful opportunity to get to know Graz from its quiet, reflective side.

History & atmosphere of Central Cemetery

The Central Cemetery was planned in 1874 and officially opened in 1881 to meet the city's growing need for space. The first burial took place in 1896. Over the years, the cemetery developed into the most important burial site in Graz—and a reflection of an entire urban society.

Particularly striking is the Central Cemetery Church, which was built in 1908 in the neo-Gothic style and still forms the center of the site today. Surrounding it are historic family graves, modern burial grounds, Islamic and Jewish resting places, as well as many impressive sculptures and inscriptions.

The atmosphere of the cemetery is reminiscent of a city park—with trees, benches, and quiet paths. Anyone who enjoys photography or is interested in the city's history will find this a perfect place.

What Central Cemetery so special

  • Graz's largest cemetery with over 30,000 graves on around 25 hectares
  • Neo-Gothic Central Cemetery Church with an impressive façade
  • Resting place of famous personalities such as Jochen Rindt and Johann Puch
  • Multicultural parts of the cemetery: Christian, Jewish, Muslim
  • Park-like setting with old tree-lined avenues and lots of nature

Insider tip

It's best to come in the morning during the week – it's especially quiet then. Follow the main avenue from the entrance to the church and take your time to discover the small details on the gravestones. A must for fans of Styrian technical history: the grave of Johann Puch in section 38. And if you're curious, take a look into the church's crypt – it's sometimes accessible during guided tours.

How to find the place - Central Cemetery

Address:
Triester Straße 164, 8020 Graz

Journey:
By tram line 5 to the stop Central CemeteryFrom there, it's just a few steps to the main entrance.

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For those who like to see more than others.

Whether hidden courtyards, quiet squares or little surprises in the middle of the city – Graz has countless corners just waiting to be discovered.
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Near Central Cemetery

  • Johann Puch Museum – Only 10 minutes away, with exciting technical history
  • Griesplatz – Multicultural meeting place with street food & weekly market
  • Mura promenade – For a quiet walk after visiting the cemetery
  • Volksgarten – Green park with pavilion and playground

 

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