Hof des deutschen Ritterordens courtyard

The Hof des deutschen Ritterordens (Court of the German Knights' Order) in the old town of Graz was created in the early 16th century by merging two houses. The stone portal with the order's cross in the keystone still reminds us of this time; access is via Sporgasse 22.

The architecture shows different phases of construction. At the bottom, there are sturdy pillar arcades, whose shape still bears late Gothic features. In the course of the 16th century, an additional floor was added, which, with its Tuscan columns and more uniform arches, is already committed to the Renaissance. Thus, this courtyard clearly illustrates how construction techniques changed over a short period of time.

Especially characteristic is the pavement that is completely paved with Murnockerln. These gently rounded stones were shaped over centuries by the current of the Mur River. Upon entering the courtyard, one gets a rare insight into the transition between the Middle Ages and the Early Modern period. Despite its location right in the center, it maintains a quiet, almost secluded atmosphere that sets it apart from the bustling surroundings.