Herzogshof, Medieval ducal residence in Herrengasse, Graz, Austria

The Herzogshof stretches between Herrengasse and Prokopigasse streets and features a long interior courtyard that preserves medieval structure from the 14th century. The building spans five floors and now holds retail spaces, restaurants, offices, and residential units while keeping its protected historical form intact.

The building first appeared in records in 1360 as a residence of Styrian dukes who conducted official business there. From the 15th century onward, its functions changed while it remained an important center of urban power.

The facade displays frescoes painted by Johann Mayer in 1742, showing figures from Greek and Roman mythology. These artistic decorations still shape the building's appearance today and tell of its artistic ambitions during the Baroque period.

The painted facade faces Herrengasse, in the pedestrian zone of Graz's old town, so it is reached on foot. The fresco is on the street front and can be viewed from outside at any time; the courtyard behind it is entered through the building's passages.

In 1382, representatives from Trieste arrived at the building to request Austrian protection against Venetian expansion. This meeting marked the start of a relationship that would last for centuries.