Hof des deutschen Ritterordens courtyard
The Gothic arcaded courtyard of the “Hof des deutschen Ritterordens” is definitely worth a visit. It is paved entirely with “Murnockerl”, the Graz name for the cobblestones smoothed round by the river Mur, which were used as paving material for streets and courtyards.
The stone portal bearing the cross of the order on the headstone dates back to the first quarter of the 16th century (entrance: Sporgasse 22).
Good to know
The "Hof des deutschen Ritterordens courtyard" is located in Sporgasse, at the corner of Hofgasse, in Graz’s first district, Innere Stadt (Old Town). The entrance is at Sporgasse 22. Thanks to its central location, this historic courtyard can easily be discovered while exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city centre of Graz.
“Murnockerln” are not a local dessert. In Graz, this term refers to stones that have been rounded over centuries by the flowing waters of the River Mur. These stones were traditionally used as paving material for streets and courtyards and can still be found in many historic courtyards throughout the city today. The entire "Hof des deutschen Ritterordens courtyard" is paved with these characteristic “Murnockerln”.
The "Hof des deutschen Ritterordens courtyard" at Sporgasse 22 is one of the most beautiful hidden courtyards in Graz’s Old Town and is generally open to the public. Visitors can explore the Gothic arcaded courtyard with its characteristic “Murnockerln” paving and Renaissance columns on a daily basis. As the building contains private apartments and offices, visitors are kindly asked to respect the privacy of residents and tenants. Access is limited to the courtyard; the interior rooms of the historic building are not open to the public.
The "Hof des deutschen Ritterordens courtyard" offers a fascinating insight into different architectural phases of the 16th century. The sturdy pier arcades on the ground floor still display Late Gothic features, while the upper level, with its Tuscan columns and more regular arches, reflects Renaissance architecture. The stone portal with the cross of the Teutonic Order is another reminder of the building’s history. Particularly distinctive is the paving made of “Murnockerln” – stones shaped and rounded by the River Mur over centuries. This makes the courtyard one of the most fascinating historic courtyards within the UNESCO World Heritage city of Graz.