Some places in Graz tell their story quietly – you just have to look closely. Schloss Liebenau is one such place. Nestled in the Liebenau district, off the beaten track, lies this historic ensemble that is much more than just a school with a beautiful entrance. Here, where young people learn today, imperial cadets were once prepared for their military careers. The building looks back on over 800 years of history – yet has remained vibrant.
If you enjoy discovering places that aren't on every postcard, then a detour to Kadettengasse is worthwhile. Schloss Liebenau will show you how diverse Graz really is: between old stone walls, athletic students, and the exciting transformation from a Renaissance castle to a 21st-century school fortress.
The first documented mention of the estate dates back to 1164, when the area was still called "Vatersdorf." Over the centuries, the country estate was rebuilt several times – its current appearance dates back to 1854, when the castle was converted into an Imperial and Royal Cadet School by order of the Emperor. The plans were drawn up by Carl Ohmeyer, one of the most renowned military architects of his time.
A Baroque portal still recalls the time before the renovation – at that time, a Renaissance building stood here, nestled in a spacious park. After the collapse of the monarchy, the cadet school became a so-called federal educational institution, where students were educated regardless of their social background.
Today, the castle houses the BG/BORG Graz-Liebenau (Graz University of Applied Sciences), a sports, language, and music school. Even though the building isn't open to the public, a stroll around it is worthwhile – just for the impressive façade and the special atmosphere that lies between history and the present.
Schloss Liebenau isn't a typical tourist destination—and that's precisely what makes it so fascinating. Here, you'll discover a place that's almost lost in the everyday life of Graz residents, but upon closer inspection, it tells a fascinating story. The mid-19th-century architecture is perfectly preserved, and the Baroque portal is a true gem.
For anyone who wants to explore Graz off the beaten track, Schloss Liebenau is a worthwhile stopover – especially in combination with a visit to the nearby Merkur Arena or a walk along the Mur River.
If you arrive at the right time—say, on a Saturday morning—the area around the castle is particularly quiet. A stroll through Kadettengasse, combined with a detour to the paddlers' meeting point on the Mur, makes for a relaxing day of discovery in the countryside—all without the hustle and bustle.
Address:
Kadettengasse 19–23, 8041 Graz
Journey:
Take tram lines 4 or 13 to the “Liebenau/Murpark” stop, then walk for about 10 minutes over the Murpark Bridge and along Kadettengasse.
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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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