Franziskanerkirche (Franciscan Church), Graz

The Franciscan Church of Graz has been Franciscan since 1239. The church has a high tower over the chancel. The chancel tower is square in the lower part with four narrow, arched windows. The upper part of the tower is hexagonal, with two windows and two clocks. The whole is topped with an onion dome and spire.

The 14th century chancel sharply contrasts with the low, broader nave. The chancel tower was badly damaged by a bomb in World War II. It was restored with a modern interior. The church is awash with light from stained glass windows and the chancel harbors a gray crucifix of cast iron that seems to float in the air.

The high tower is rare among Franciscan churches and monasteries. The church was built close to the walls of the city. It was considered strategically located and the fortified tower was ordered by civil authorities in the 17th century.

Adjunct to the church Mariae Himmelfahrt is the Franciscan monastery and cloisters. The cloisters offer serenity in the bustle of the city. The monks meet on the first floor oratory for canonical hours. Vespers are open to everyone.

Epitaphs lining the walls of the cloister mention the names, occupations and vital data of the burghers and nobility who are buried there.