In the heart of the old town, the carillon at the Carillon Square creates a charming spectacle that invites both tourists and locals to linger. Three times a day – at 11:00, 15:00, and 18:00 – 24 bells sound in changing melodies, while a wooden couple in traditional attire turns atop the gable. The melodies are adjusted five times a year – ranging from yodeling to alpine tunes and even modern repertoire.
The story behind it begins in the early 20th century: In 1905, the carillon was installed by Gottfried Maurer, who turned his house into a sort of public stage. The square was officially named in 1908 – before that, it was called "Fliegenplatz." During World War II, the play fell silent as the bells were melted down. It wasn't until 1956 that new bells were installed, allowing the mechanical sound to return.
A special detail: At the end of each performance, a golden playing rooster crows; before that, the arcade windows in the gable open, and the couple in traditional attire appears. Today, it is one of the top attractions in Graz!