Mur Island

Mur Island has brought the river Mur back to the people of Graz. Up to a few years ago, the river had been polluted by sewage water and industrial effluent. Now the river connecting and dividing the city has a good quality of water again, and has become inviting. Graz-born Robert Punkenhofer inspired New York artist Vito Acconci to design an accessible, artificial island. The project was realized as a 47m-long reticular steel construction. The curved and twisted shape can be associated with a half-opened shell. In its open part, wave-like blue benches form an amphitheatre for events of all kinds. Under the domed glass roof cooled by water, a café in blue and white offers the opportunity to enjoy being close to the Mur - a new feeling even for locals. Between the café and the amphitheatre a three-dimensional maze made of ropes, and a slide are promising an island adventure for children (text from website Graz Tourism).