The best cycling routes around Hitzendorf

On the occasion of the encounter with this Rosary chapel, I would like to briefly recall some thoughts of Pope Leo XIV. After a common Rosary prayer by the Holy Father on his pastoral visit, he spoke to the faithful as follows: + „We have contemplated the glorious mysteries of the life of Jesus and in his glorification recognized our destiny and in his love our mission. Christ conquered death at Easter and showed us the way back to the Father. And so that we too can tread this luminous and demanding path and let the whole world share in its beauty, he has given us his Spirit, who inspires and strengthens us on our way and in our mission. Like Mary, we too are created for heaven, and with joy we advance towards heaven, looking to her, our good Mother and our model of holiness…“

God's Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes

As early as 1999, a "Koren Room" was established in the bell tower of the Old Church in memory of the honorary citizen. The location was not chosen by chance – Hanns Koren saved the already partially derelict 14th-century structure from collapse. From 2023 to 2025, the church – now owned by the municipality – underwent extensive renovations, and the small museum was subsequently redesigned. The "Hanns Koren Memorial Room" is a tribute to one of the most influential figures in the Graz region. Within the walls of the Old Church, visitors will find an intimate exhibition in the bell tower, which, through personal belongings and insightful texts, offers a profound glimpse into the life and achievements of Hanns Koren. As a politician, folklorist, and enthusiastic patron of the arts, Koren left a significant legacy. Visitors have the unique opportunity to borrow the key from the municipal office during office hours and explore this special collection. From April to October, the memorial also opens its doors for Sunday visits, increasing accessibility for those interested. The memorial is not only a place of remembrance, but also a living testament to the cultural diversity and history of Styria. Opening hours: April 1, 2026 - October 31, 2026, Monday - Sunday, all day

A prominent landmark along the way, the Hahnbäck Chapel stands at the border of the three municipalities of St. Oswald, St. Bartholomä, and Gratwein-Straßengel. An old wooden beam indicates its likely construction year of 1848. When the chapel was threatened with ruin, it was dismantled with the active assistance of the local population, moved a few meters for traffic reasons, and rebuilt. The Hahnbäck Chapel owes its existence to dedicated people in St. Oswald. In 1996, the association for the preservation of the chapel was founded, thus saving a spiritual landmark of St. Oswald, as well as of St. Bartholomä and Gratwein-Straßengel. Pilgrimages on the West Styrian Way of St. James and pilgrims to Mariazell or Maria Lankowitz heed the inscription on the Hahnbäck Chapel: "Dear Christian, do not pass by until Jesus and Mary are greeted!"

After an ice cream break we continue

Ligistberg Chapel

drinking fountain

The Kirschenhalle was designed as a multifunctional sports and event hall. It is considered a supra-regional showcase project, is open year-round, and meets the most modern technical and acoustic requirements. The building is an integral part of the newly constructed sports and event center for the market town of Hitzendorf. Just 15 minutes from Graz lies the event center, which is unparalleled in Styria: the sports and event center for the market town of Hitzendorf. The centerpiece is the Kirschenhalle, which, with a capacity of up to 1,500 guests, is the largest event hall in western Styria. It impresses with its multifunctionality, offering 15 different event options – from indoor soccer tournaments to lavish ballroom parties. Multifunctionality was always at the heart of the design brief. The hall has an interior grandstand, permanently installed and foldable bar areas including a catering kitchen, a permanently installed event stage and a flexible hall partition in the middle of the hall and can be used as a sports hall for a wide variety of sports as well as for various types of events with up to 1,800 visitors.