Island in the Mur

Island or ship? It's not that easy to categorize the extravagant steel structure of the American artist Vito Acconci. The Murinsel Graz was commissioned for the European Capital of Culture year 2003. What is clear is that it serves as a link between the river and the city, and you can enjoy coffee or a cocktail there wonderfully. While the Mur gurgles merrily on both sides, you experience a completely new cityscape of Graz on the Murinsel.

Our tip: Walk "Across the Mur and back"

The island has brought back the Mur to the people of Graz. Until a few years ago, it was a river polluted by wastewater. So it was hardly a concern that the Mur had dug itself about 12 m deeper into its bed after its regulation in the 19th century. Now, the river, which both separates and connects Graz, once again enjoys good water quality and has become inviting.

Graz as the European Capital of Culture 2003 - A stimulus for a new beginning at and in the Mur.

Grazer Robert Punkenhofer inspired New York artist Vito Acconci to create a walkable island project. From this idea, a 47 m long mesh-like steel structure emerged. The curved, twisted form resembles a half-open shell. In its open part, wavy blue benches create an arena for events of various kinds. Underneath the vaulted, water-cooled glass roof, a café in blue and white offers the opportunity to enjoy the - also new for Graz - feeling of closeness to the Mur. Between the café and the arena, a three-dimensional labyrinth of ropes and a slide promise an island adventure for children.

What is called an island is correctly a ship. It is anchored and is additionally stabilized by walkways to the two shores. It even has navigation lights. As a warning - in case another ship gets lost on the Mur. But as brightly blue as it shines at night, no one can/wants to overlook the Murinsel anyway.