Erzherzog Johann-Dokumentation

The Erzherzog Johann-Dokumentation invites you to get to know a fascinating historical figure. Erzherzog Johann, nephew of Joseph II. and grandson of Maria Theresia, is presented here as a visionary pioneer of sustainability ♻️.

The exhibition, originally opened in 1982, was extensively revised and reopened in 2009 for the Archduke's 150th anniversary of death. Since then, it has enjoyed great visitor interest annually.

From his long-standing estate at Schloss und Herrschaft Thernberg, Erzherzog Johann laid the foundation for his work in Steiermark. He modernized agriculture, founded educational and research institutions, and initiated industrialization, thereby transforming Steiermark into an advanced region.

Discover his diverse contributions in the documentation:

• On the Thernberg estates, he conducted experiments for agricultural improvement.

• He established experimental gardens for systematic fruit tree grafting and founded a pomological school 🍎.

• He had his extensive collections consolidated and reorganized at Schloss Thernberg, which were later made accessible to the Joanneum in Graz.

• Additionally, he commissioned court painters to document the folk culture and customs of his time.