Cerrini-Schlössl
The Cerrini-Schlössl is a residential building with a flat roof on the eastern slope of the Schlossberg, which was built by the architect and master builder Josef Withalm on behalf of Carl Freiherr von Cerrini in 1820.
In 1809, Cerrini had commanded the defence of the exposed Burghers’ Bastion, for which he was given permission to erect the building on the south-eastern corner of the bastion as a reward. The building closed the breach that had been blown into the Burghers’ Bastion when the fortress was razed. It was restored by the City of Graz between 1995 and 1997.
It serves as a place to live and work for holders of the one-year ‘Writer of the City of Graz’ scholarship and artists under threat in their home countries.
Good to know
Karl Freiherr von Cerrini (1777–1840) was an Austro-Hungarian Major General who distinguished himself through the heroic defense of the Burghers’ Bastion in Graz against French troops in 1809. In recognition of his services, he was granted permission in 1820 to build a residence on the breach below the Clock Tower - at the southeastern corner of the bastion - where the French had blown up part of the fortifications. This residence became known as Cerrini Manor (Cerrini-Schlössl), which remains a prominent landmark on Graz's Schlossberg to this day.
The Cerrini-Schlössl serves as a temporary home and workplace for Graz’s Writers-in-Residence. More than just a historic building, it is also a place of cultural exchange and dedicated literary work.
Each year, the City of Graz awards the prestigious "Graz City Writer" literary fellowship, offering writers the unique opportunity to live and work in the cultural capital for one year. The concept of the traditional medieval city writer, who served as the recorder of city council meetings, has been revived and reinterpreted for the present day.
The fellowship includes complimentary accommodation in the picturesque Cerrini-Schlössl on the Schlossberg, providing an inspiring retreat high above the rooftops of the city.
The fellowship is intended for authors who demonstrate innovation, outstanding literary and linguistic quality, and artistic originality through their work. Its aim is to promote literary exchange and to actively integrate the City Writer into Graz's vibrant literary scene.
The current Graz City Writer for the period 2026/2027 is the author Zoltán Danyi (September 2026 – August 2027).
The Cerrini-Schlössl is not open to the public, as it now serves as a residence and workplace for international writers, artists and Graz’s Writer-in-Residence programme. However, the historic building can be admired from the outside at any time.
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