Mur Island

Mur Island

Attraction Introduction

The Mur River runs through the city, dividing it into two parts, and flows southwest before eventually emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. Mur Island is an artificial island located on the Mur River, built to celebrate Graz being named the “European Capital of Culture 2003.” It was designed by New York-based architect Vito Acconci. The main structure consists of a network of thin and thick silver steel pipes and glass, with bridges on both sides connecting to the riverbanks. Viewed from the riverbank, the entire spiral-shaped island resembles a giant silver seashell and is considered a classic fusion of art and architecture, dream and reality.

The island features an outdoor semi-circular theater (open-air performance space), a children’s play area, and a café. The café is decorated in silver and blue tones with irregular metal furniture, giving it a very avant-garde vibe and making it a trendy spot for locals. In the evening, the café transforms into a moody bar, and with lights shining through the curtains, the entire building becomes dazzlingly illuminated. Even more magical is the fact that Mur Island can rise and fall with the water level, appearing like a shiny, floating seashell on the river—spectacular and radiant.

Mur Island Café Aiola island: Tel 0043--316--822660; Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00–14:00.

Recommended Tour Route:

Starting from the Tourist Information Center (Herrengasse 16) — walk along Herrengasse to the central square of the Old Town (Hauptplatz) — proceed along Murgasse, cross the bridge to reach the Museum of Modern Art at Lendkai 1 — after exiting the museum, walk along Mariahilfer Straße to Maria Square, turn right towards the direction of the Mur River — cross the bridge to Mur Island — after visiting, cross the small Mur Bridge (Mursteg) back to the Old Town — you can head to Schlossbergplatz to visit Schlossberg and the Clock Tower; alternatively, return to the Tourist Information Center via Sackstraße.

Austria, Graz