Grazer Glockenspiel

The carillon in the gable of the house at Glockenspielplatz goes back to the Graz merchant Gottfried Maurer, who brought the idea from travels to Germany and Belgium. Since 1905, two window wings open three times a day – at 11, 15, and 18 o'clock – and a wooden carved couple in traditional attire turns to the sounds of 24 bells. Three different melodies play while the young man and woman spin in a circle; a gilded rooster crows at the end. The small square in the former "Bermudadreieck" of the old town is one of the most atmospheric corners of Graz and is lined with cafés and restaurants. Those who want to experience the spectacle should arrive a few minutes before the hour – the performance lasts about five minutes and is free of charge.