Further information about the "Aula of the Old University" can be found at the following links as well as in the detailed description below:
Homepage of the "Aula of the Old University"
After a phase of research, analysis, and monument preservation treatment, followed by sensitive planning, the "Aula of the Old University" has become a model example for the revitalization of historically valuable architecture in the ensemble of Graz's city crown. The building complex, dating from the 17th century, has served as an Aula from 1607 to 1773, as a university library from 1781 to 1905, and as the State Archives from 1905 to 2000—each time as a center for knowledge and knowledge transfer. Today, the late Baroque hall is used as a venue for receptions, concerts, exhibitions, and private events.
The Jesuits, having been invited to Graz by Archduke Karl II in 1570, were granted the old parish courtyard with the parish school and land (on the west side of the present-day Bürgergasse), where they established their college in 1572, incorporating older building materials (today’s Priests' Seminary), laying the foundation for the first university in Graz, which opened in 1585 (Alma mater Graecensis). Under Archduke Ferdinand II, the new construction of the building, now known as the "Old University," at the corner of Hofgasse/Bürgergasse, was carried out between 1607 and 1609. Originally a freestanding building, it was later connected to the college, forming a unified complex.
In the classrooms of the ground floor, the Jesuits taught "Divine Theology," Metaphysics, Rhetoric, Logic, Physics, and Poetry, while the upper floor served as the Aula and for theatrical performances. The Aula, College, Castle, and Cathedral were all interconnected by underground passageways. Parts of the room and vault structures are still preserved today, and original wall paintings and wooden furnishings have been restored and integrated into the overall appearance.
In 1775, Empress Maria Theresa ordered the establishment of a state university library. During a major renovation of the upper floor, the grand library hall was created between 1778 and 1781, and its architectural form has remained intact to this day. The existing vaulting was also constructed during this time, supported by 8 massive central pillars. The prominent eastern facade, which defines the building’s current appearance, was also created during this period. Remnants of the original design include the richly decorated entrance portal and the coats of arms of Emperor Ferdinand II and his wife Maria Anna of Bavaria on the northeast corner.
With the relocation of the Styrian State Archives to Karmeliterplatz in 1999, the way was cleared for the adaptation of the Old University into a modern event center, which was officially opened on April 30, 2005.
With kind support from the Province of Styria