Minoritenschlössl: Hidden gem on the Rosenberg

The small palace was built starting in 1596 by Stephan Speidel zu Vatersdorf and his brother Sebastian. Originally known as "Speidlegg," it became the property of the Minorite Convent of Graz in 1637, which retained it until 1789 and gave it its present form. In the 19th century, it served for a time as a coffee house. In 1883, the legal historian Arnold Luschin von Ebengreuth acquired the property and had it extensively restored. He incorporated ornate elements from demolished Graz houses, including a Baroque stone portal and a Renaissance double window.

Today, the Minoritenschlössl (Minorite Castle) is a two-story building with a steep hipped roof and four gabled corner turrets. The garden features sandstone statues of the gods Fortuna, Mercury, and Vulcan, as well as a neoclassical summer house with Ionic terracotta columns. The interior, which is rarely open to the public, retains original wood-beamed ceilings, Baroque doors, and a richly decorated 17th-century fireplace surround.

The Minoritenschlössl is a unique ensemble of architecture, art, and history. The integration of elements from demolished Graz houses gives the building a unique complexity. It appears like a mosaic of eras—every detail tells its own story. The lovingly tended garden, with its sculptures and the summer house, creates an almost fairytale atmosphere. Here, on the edge of Rosenberg Hill, you can truly appreciate that beauty often arises in secret.

Even though the Minoritenschlössl is privately owned and not open to the public, a stroll through Quellengasse is worthwhile. Through the wrought-iron gate, you can catch a glimpse of the property and the garden. The place unfolds its special charm, especially in the early morning hours or at sunset. If you like, you can combine your walk with a detour to the Rosenhain or Hilmteich pond—both are just a few minutes away.

The Minoritenschlössl is located in the Quellengasse 4 in district Geidorf.
You can reach it with the Tram line 1 (Stop “Hilmteich/Botanischer Garten”) or the Bus lines 41 and 58. From there it is only a few minutes walk.
Parking is limited, making it ideal for a walk or a short bike ride through Geidorf.

• Rose grove – popular hill park with panoramic views over Graz
• Hilmteich – Pond and local recreation area at the edge of the forest
• Botanical garden – spectacular greenhouse architecture meets plant diversity