Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Fortresses, palaces
and castle hotels
Magyarország Kastélyszállók, várak 2 3
Dear visitor,
Wherever you go in Hungary, you are sure to find Tourists taking in the Transdanubia region should follow
something interesting, from charming villages with the Hédervár – Fertőd – Nagycenk – Győr route or tour
living traditions to enticing wine cellars, exciting Röjtökmuzsaj – Kőszeg – Körmend – Sárvár – Szeleste;
festivals and hundreds of castles, fortresses and Martonvásár – Nádasladány – Tata – Komárom and
mansions. Kutas – Szigetvár – Siklós – Bikal or maybe Simontornya
– Ozora – Hőgyész.
This brochure is for those wishing to relive the Middle
Ages, peek into the lives of the aristocracy or simply The area around Lake Balaton is also rich in castles and
spend a night between the sheets of a four-poster bed palaces, with recommended tours including Zalacsány –
or the day reading in an old library. On the following Keszthely – Szigliget – Nagyvázsony – Sümeg.
pages, we have compiled Hungary’s most attractive
and interesting palaces, castles museums and hotels There are many sights to see close to the capital, too,
open to visitors seeking history and relaxation. such as the Esztergom – Visegrad or Nagytétény – Érd –
Of course, the picture is far from complete, there are Gödöllő – Tápiószele excursions.
many more palaces, fortresses and castle hotels to be
discovered all over the country. The classic tourist destination of the Great Plain is not
without its castles and palaces either, particularly along
One thing is certain, pack for more than a single day if the Békéscsaba – Gyula – Vaja route.
at all possible. Our map makes it easy to plan a palace
and castle tour lasting several days or even weeks. In addition to simply visiting castles and palaces, there
Here are just a few suggestions: are ample opportunities to live like a king in Hungary
– dozens of mansions and residences offer luxurious,
For those visiting northern Hungary, the Horpács old-fashioned hospitality to their guests.
– Csesztve – Szécsény – Gyöngyös route is full of
interest, as well as the Eger – Miskolc – Szerencs – Hungarian National Tourist Office
Pusztaradvány and the Mád – Füzér – Fűzérradvány www.hungary.com
– Pácin – Sárospatak – Tarcal round trips.
www.itthon.hu
Hungary Fortresses 4 5
Budapest Esztergom
Buda Castle Castle, Castle Museum
and offers countless attractions, including the site. The giant columns, tympanum and dome of
Details: Hungarian National Gallery in the former Royal Palace Details: the monumental basilica are an impressive sight on
Budapest, District I, Buda Castle showcasing the finest in Hungarian and international Esztergom, Szent István tér 1. any approach to Esztergom. The fantastic panorama
Tel.: (+36‐1) 488‐0475 fine arts, while the Budapest History Museum Tel.: (+36‐33) 415‐986 of the Danube, the city and the surrounding hills at
Fax: (+36‐1) 488‐0474 chronicles the diverse and fascinating history of the Fax: (+36‐33) 500‐095 the top of the spiral staircase to the 118-metre-long,
var@budapestinfo.hu Hungarian capital. varmegom@invitel.hu 49-metre-wide and 100-metre-high dome is certainly
www.mnmvarmuzeuma.hu worth the effort. The cathedral also incorporates the
Budapest DE4 The Mátyás Church, scene of several coronations, Bakócz Chapel, one of Hungary’s finest surviving
and the unparalleled views of the Danube and Opening hours: examples of Renaissance architecture.
the historic buildings of Pest from the adjacent March 1 – October 31.
The Buda Castle overlooking the River Danube is Fisherman’s Bastion are also not to be missed. The Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 6 p.m. The Esztergom Centuries exhibition introduces the
Hungary’s most visited tourist site. Prior to the arrival state president’s Classicist palace is also to be found November 1 – April 30. history of the castle and the hill it stands on while
of the Tatars in 1241-42, a village was perched on the in the Castle District near the top of the famous Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 4 p.m. decorative weapons from the Hungarian National
hilltop, but after the danger the threat had passed, funicular. Below ground, the labyrinth of caves in Museum collection are on display at the Iron and
King Béla IV erected city walls to stave off further the bowels of the hillside offers a quite different Gold exhibition. Artefacts chronicling the history of
threats. sightseeing experience. Esztergom D3 coin minting and the collection of masonry are also
well worth as look.
The Royal Palace was built in the 14th and 15th Events are held in the historic old town throughout
centuries on the southern half of the hill with both the year, including the Celebration of Crafts, various It was Grand Prince Géza who built the first fortress There are many other sights to see in Esztergom, one
King Sigismund and King Mátyás commissioning flea markets, and several pálinka (Hungarian fruit on this picturesque spot overlooking the Danube and of the country’s most atmospheric cities, including
extensive construction work. The latter built a castle brandy) and wine festivals. The district has preserved it was later adopted as the royal seat by Saint István, the stunning jewellery held in the cathedral vault, the
that was a source of envy throughout Europe and no its narrow cobbled streets from the Middle Ages and Hungary’s first king. The ever-expanding castle was religious relics on display in the Christian Museum,
small number of legends are attached to his reign. its old buildings are home to outstanding restaurants, also the residence of the archbishop of Esztergom at and the priceless art of the Bálint Balassi Museum.
One of the most famous is the story of the poor stylish bars and welcoming cafés. one time. And the cafés and restaurants on the main square
shepherd who made fools of the avaricious palace and surrounding streets offer ample opportunity for
guards by requesting a “reward” of 100 strokes with Turkish forces captured the fortress in 1543 and it is tired tourists to relax and recharge.
a stick, which would be shared among the men who said that when the last pasha of Esztergom felt his
allowed him to enter. power under threat, he had a large stone donkey
carved and hid his gold inside it.
In 1541, the Turks conquered Buda and the city was
not reclaimed until 1686. Today, the World Heritage In the first half of the 19th century, Hungary’s largest
site is the jewel in the crown of Hungarian tourism church was erected in the Classicist style on the
www.hungary.com
Hungary Fortresses 6 7
Komárom Miskolc–Diósgyôr
Castle, Monastery Fortress Military Culture Castle
Centre, Museum Details:
hazelnut trees in memory of the stolen kiss, and
they stood in the same spot for centuries.
to the Hapsburg Empire in October 1849. Miskolc–Diósgyôr, Vár u. 24.
Details: Alongside György Klapka in the winter of 1849, the Tel.: (+36‐46) 533‐355 In the 16th and 17th centuries, the Diósgyőr Castle
Komárom, Dunapart 1. defence was commanded by Englishman Richard Fax: (+36‐46) 530‐463 became a border fortress as it repelled wave after
Tel./Fax: (+36‐34) 540‐582 Guyon, who led the desperate town’s population info@diosgyorivar.hu wave of Turkish attacks. By the time of Rákóczi’s
info@fort‐monostor.hu by the example his own remarkable bravery in the www.diosgyorivar.hu war of independence the fortress lay in ruins and
www.fort‐monostor.hu face of relentless Austrian cannon salvoes. played no role in the fighting.
Opening hours:
Opening hours: The Military Culture Museum partially built into May 1 – September 30. There are many points of interest within the four
November 24 – March 7. the tunnels under the fortress is unique in Central Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. towers of the castle. The round bastion contains
Mon.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 4 p.m. Europe. The Castes, Fortresses and Knights October 1 – April 30. mannequins modelling historical battle dress,
(tours unavailable) exhibition fills its giant hollow rooms, a bread- Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. armour and weaponry, the north-eastern tower
March 7 – November 24. making museum occupies the former military houses a giant painting telling the story of the
Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m – 5 p.m. bakery and the military technology park offers Miskolc – Diósgyôr G2 Turin peace accord and the casemate contains
(tours unavailable on Mondays) plenty to see. There is also a collection of Roman a wall where visitors are invited to illustrate their
Tours commence: ruins on display. Several guided tours of the large own memories of the castle. The pentagonal Italian
9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 13 p.m., area of the fortress are also available, the most This historic castle lies in the valley extending tower provides an opportunity for enthusiasts of
14 p.m., 15 p.m. exciting of which is the unique tunnel tour. The café to the east of the Bükk Hills and is approached military history to take a closer look at a recast
offers an opportunity to relax while the children via one of the country’s most attractive chestnut decorative cannon. Visitors to Diósgyőr should
Komárom C3
enjoy the historical playhouse. groves, where the lush crowns of the 52 trees also drop in on the ruins of the monastery, the
The Komárom fortress network extends across shade the road. The first fortress was built here in Déryné House and the thermal baths.
both sides of the Danube and was built in the The fortress plays host to a wide range of annual the 12th century, but it was destroyed by the Tatars
18th and 19th centuries based on cutting-edge events, from the bakery days to the American in 1241-42. The area around Miskolc is also famous for the
principles of military architecture. The legendary cars festival. The fortress can be approached by Miskolc-Tapolca thermal and cave baths, as well as
stone virgin on the corner of the tower of the old boat from Budapest now that a harbour has been The golden age of the new castle was in the the idyllic Lillafüred Palace Hotel with its tranquil
Komárno castle on the Slovak side is a female form built on the stretch of the Danube alongside the 14th and 15th centuries, when it was the estate rowing lake and narrow-gauge railway running up
making a hand gesture warning potential invaders fortress. of Hungarian queens from the reign of King into the Bükk Hills.
that the fortress will not be vanquished. Sigismund onward. The story goes that Sigusmund
While they are here, visitors should also take a was not loved by his wife Mária and the object of
The Komárom fortress was of key importance in look at the sights of the town of Komárom itself, her desire was a young knight she secretly kissed
the 1948-49 revolt when it was the last to surrender particularly the György Klapka museum. in the castle garden one night. She planted two
www.hungary.com
Hungary Fortresses 8 9
Nagyvázsony Sárvár
Castle, Pál Kinizsi Castle Museum Castle, Ferenc Nádasdy Museum
Today, the immaculately restored fortress contains a The castle now functions as a museum, the
Details: castle museum of architectural finds on the site, as Details: centrepiece of which is the vaulted banquet hall with
Nagyvázsony, Vár u. 9 well as furniture and weapons from the Middle Ages. Sárvár, Várkerület 1. its seven enormous ceiling paintings of turbulent
Tel.: (+36‐88) 264‐786 There is also an exhibition of life-sized models of the Tel./Fax.: (+36‐95) 320‐158 Baroque battle scenes bordered by vibrant stucco.
Fax: (+36‐88) 515‐212 Hungarian kings. muzeum.sarvar@mail.globonet.hu The museum’s collection of artefacts is equally
turistaszallo@nagyvazsony.hu www.museum.hu significant, including exquisite Renaissance and
www.kinizsivar.hu One of the best-known attractions in the castle is Baroque furniture, a rich collection of European
www.nagyvazsony.hu a model plotting Hungarian history from the arrival Opening hours: glassware, a 1494 Antwerp painting from 1494 of a
in the Carpathian Basin to the present day with the Tue.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. court tournament from the Bavarian royal collection,
Opening hours: help of several thousand tiny figurines. a 17th century Nuremberg silver platter and a
March 15 – May 31. Sárvár B4 collection of 60 sabres dating from the 17th to the
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Every summer, historical games are staged in the 20th centuries. The exhibition of the history of the
June 1 – August 31. castle, while the stable in Bethlehem is recreated Hungarian Hussars is also unique in that it brings the
Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. with live animals during advent. The castle is also One of Hungary’s best preserved castles, the Sárvár full spectrum of Hussar uniforms together in a single
September 1 – October 31. an ideal starting point for tours into the beautiful sur- fortress is first mentioned in official documents in location.
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. rounding countryside, and the nearby post office 1288. From the 1320s, it was owned by the Kőszegi
museum is worthy of a short visit. family that ruled over much of the Transdanubia The outer walls of the castle have recently been
Nagyvázsony C5 region. renovated and the moat excavated around it is still
visible today. A short walk from the castle, visitors will
The Kőszegis were eventually ousted when Sándor find a nine-hectare arboretum, the restored old town
This castle in the forests of the Bakony Hills was built Köcski stormed the building at the behest of King and the 44 °C water of the town’s thermal baths.
by the Vezsenyi family in the first half of the 15th cen- Charles Robert. In recognition of his deeds fighting
tury before passing into the ownership of general both for the Hungarian King and for Emporer
Pál Kinizsi, who expanded it considerably. Kinizsi, Frederick in Germany, Köcski was appointed general
a general famous for keeping the Turks at bay un- of the castle and steward of Vas County.
der King Mátyás, was working at the local watermill
when the king passed by on a hunting trip asking for The castle later came into the ownership of the
drinking water. The powerful Kinizsi is said to have Kanizsai and Nádasdy families, the latter of which
passed him a cup using a millstone as a tray. Seeing expanded the fortress in the Renaissance style
his incredible strength, the king did not hesitate to around 1560. From 1803, the castle was owned
recruit him to his army and it was not long before the by the archdukes of the Habsburg family and, from
talented leader rose to the very top. 1875, by the Wittelsbach Bavarian royal family.
Sárospatak Siklós
Castle, Rákóczi Museum Castle, Castle Musuem
a jackdaw trained by a local student to bring him an The exhibitions in the castle offer something for
Details: item of gold jewellery every day. When the student Details: everyone, including relics of the castle itself, the
Sárospatak, Szent Erzsébet út 19. felt he had accumulated sufficient wealth, he killed Siklós, Vajda János tér 8. town and the battles fought around it, masonry from
Tel.: (+36‐47) 311‐083 the bird to cover his tracks and moved away from Tel.: (+36‐72) 579‐427 the Middle Ages, and artefacts relating to hunting,
Fax: (+36‐47) 511‐135 Sárospatak. German noble families later moved Fax: (+36‐72) 579‐427 painting and folk art. There is even an exhibition of
spatak@rakoczimuzeum.axelero.net into the castle, converting it into a palace, and the varsiklos@freemail.hu gloves and related fashion through the ages, and the
www.spatak.hu restored building currently operates as the Rákóczi siklos@tourinform.hu rich heritage of the Villány-Siklós wine region is also
Museum. Several permanent exhibitions are open www.siklosivar.hu,www.siklos.hu represented here.
Opening hours: to the public, including a collection of artefacts
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. telling the story of the famous family and the war Opening hours: At the foot of the hill, Siklós offers much more to see,
of independence. The Red Tower, the oldest part of April 15 – October 15. such as the restored Turkish monuments, the djami
Sárospatak H2 the building, invites visitors to take a peek into life Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. of Bey Malkoc and a beautiful Franciscan church.
in the Middle Ages, while the Italian tower casemate October 16 – April 14. Weary travellers will appreciate the opportunity to
The quaint town of Sárospatak and its legendary introduces the art of war in the late Renaissance Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. unwind at the Harkány medicinal baths no more
castle are nestled in the beautiful countryside along period. Only the castle is open on Mondays, than a short drive away.
the banks of the River Bodrog. The fortress was the museum is closed.
erected in the 1530s, with the city walls following A café evoking the golden age of the late 19th
in 1541. The castle and the Renaissance wing century and also operates in the castle, while the Siklós C8
subsequently added was owned by the Perényi family famous Reformation College with the enormous
before finding its way into the hands of the Prince halls of its historical library, the large Gothic church, Towering above the surrounding countryside, the
Rákóczi. In 1680, a gunpowder explosion damaged the Makovecz-designed town house and the former Siklós Castle was built in the late 13th century. It
the Red Tower, and sections of the city walls were Trinity Cloisters all make an excursion into the town was steadily expanded in the centuries to come,
destroyed in 1702, rendering the castle ineffective itself very worthwhile. The town is also one of the eventually belonging to the Garai estate. According
as a military building. During the Rákóczi uprising, venues for the Zemplén Festival and a celebration of to legend, the family jewels were guarded in the
Prince Ferenc Rákóczi II even held Parliamentary Szent Erzsébet is held here every year. castle prison by a python 12 metres in length and
sessions in Sárospatak in 1710. Several secret as thick as a tree trunk. The snake even appears on
tunnels are said to have led to fortresses in the The views from the Megyer Hill on the outskirts of the Garai family crest above the chapel entrance.
surrounding area and a large network of cellars still town also make it a highly attractive destination for The Renaissance fortress was later owned by King
remains beneath the castle and town. It is in these walkers. Mátyás and his son János Corvin before passing to
that the Tokaj region’s famous wines continue to palatine Imre Perényi in 1515. Siklós fell into Turkish
be aged to this day. The story goes that Rákóczi’s hands from 1543 to 1686 and was conquered by
treasures guarded in the Red Tower were stolen by Kuruc forces during Rákóczi’s war of independence.
www.hungary.com
Hungary Fortresses 10 11
Sümeg Szigetvár
Castle, Castle Museum Castle, Castle Museum
here, it is interesting that he never wrote about soldiers suggested catching the golden hen living
Details: his local castle. Particularly considering the many Details: in the swampland around the castle and building
Sümeg, Várhegy tales about the Sümeg fortress, which for a long Szigetvár, Vár u. 19. it into the wall to keep it steady. Zrínyi followed
Tel./Fax: (+36‐87) 550‐166 time was thought to have been built in the time of Tel./Fax: (+36‐73) 311‐442, the recommendation and the wall withstood the
sales@hotelkapitany.hu Koppány, one of the first Hungarian rulers. (+36‐30) 947‐7287 battering from the Turkish cannons. Legend has it,
programmanager@hotelkapitany.hu szigetvarivar@enternet.hu the golden hen lives on in one of the secret cavities
www.sumegvar.hu Some thought the castle was built by the knights www.szigetvarivar.hu of the castle wall and continues to lay golden eggs
of the order of the church, while others believe to this day. Many a treasure seeker has tried to find
Opening hours: King Béla IV stayed the night at the castle as he Opening hours: it, but without success. The castle did not have a
April, May, September, October: fled from defeat at the hands of the Tatars on April 1 – November 30 role to play in the war of independence and was
Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. the banks of the River Sajó. And then there are Tue.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. passed into the ownership of Count Andrássy.
June: Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. the usual stories of secret tunnels and glittering
July, August: Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. treasure. Szigetvár C7 Today, the castle stands in large landscaped
grounds and houses a historical museum, including
Sümeg B5 The castle now hosts a historical exhibition the remains of Suleiman the Magnificent’s djami.
featuring armour, weaponry and waxwork figures, The walls of the Szigetvár Castle bear witness to Visitors can browse through Hungarian and Turkish
but its biggest attractions are the tournaments one of the most heroic military battles in Hungarian weapons and cannonballs from the famous siege,
The ancient Sümeg Castle is built on top of a rocky and banquets running throughout the summer. history in 1566 – and the castle has been as well as aristocratic dress and military uniforms
mountain that towers above the surrounding flat The events take place in the Knights’ Arena at the renowned all over Europe ever since. Count Miklós of the day.
countryside, making it visible from miles around. foot of the hill or in the castle’s covered hall and Zrínyi and his Hungarian and Croatian warriors
The fortress was built in the 13th century by the feature skilled exponents of historical sports, such are synonymous with the stoic defence against The recently opened Hungarian-Turkish Friendship
bishop of Veszprém, never succumbed to the as archery, jousting, axe- and spear-throwing, in the Turks. The castle was built by Oszvald Szigeti Park containing large statues of both Suleiman and
Turkish armies and was made the seat of the authentic period dress. in the early 15th century before passing to Bálint Zrínyi on the edge of the grounds and the beautifully
bishopric in 1552. Török, who also features in Gárdonyi’s Eclipse renovated main square and side streets of the small
The Baroque centre of the small town also boast of the Crescent Moon. From 1543, Szigetvár town of Szigetvár come highly recommended,
During Rákóczi’s war of independence, it became several sights, such as the exhibition at the became the most important border fortress in the particularly the Roman Catholic church adapted
one of the most important strategic Kuruc bishop’s palace, the Roman Catholic church with South Transdanubia region and it was only after from the former Turkish djami.
positions in the Transdanubia region, but by the its Maulbertsch frescoes, the town museum and a protracted siege that the Turkish army was able
mid 18th century, records state that it had fallen the geological collection at the nearby ancient to overcome Zrínyi’s gallant men. It is said that
into disrepair. Although the poet Sándor Kisfaludy, quartz mine. when Zrínyi started preparations for the imminent
famous for recounting the myths and legends siege, the entire wall collapsed despite the best
of the castles to the north of Lake Balaton, lived efforts of his masons. At this point, one of the
Szerencs Szigliget
Castle, Zemplén Museum, Castle
Municipal Cultural Centre Details:
as it still gripped the sword. Revenge having been
served, the young couple was happily married.
Ágnes fought off the Turks and leapt onto a horse
Details: to summon help from the castle. The Hungarian Szigliget, Kisfaludy u. 26. The castle has recently been restored and its tower
Tel.: (+36‐20) 212‐9346
Szerencs, Rákóczi‐vár, Huszárvár u. 1. soldiers arrived in time to see off the Turks, who continues to offer stunning views of Lake Balaton,
www.szigliget.hu
Tel./Fax: (+36‐47) 362‐842 did not forget the Szerencs harvest in a hurry. Mount Badacsony and the Balaton Uplands.
muzeum@szerencs.hu Having visited the castle, it is worth taking in the
Opening hours
zemplenimuz@hermuz.hu In the late 16th century, the castle at Szerencs Mediterranean atmosphere of the old village below
March 15 – October 30.
www.hermuz.hu/zemplen.htm came into the possession of the Rákóczi family, with its cobbled streets and ancient wine cellars.
Mon.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
www.szerencs.hu but it did not play any military role in the war of Visitors should also sample the soothing silence
independence. The fortress was converted into a of the Baroque chapel, drop in on Hungary’s only
Opening hours:
Szigliget B5
castle residence by the noble Szimay family in the thatched country house and stroll through the park
Weekdays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 18th century. to the old Eszterházy Castle.
Standing on a lonely rocky outcrop overlooking Lake
Szerencs G2 Today, the Zemplén Museum operates in one wing Balaton, the attractive Szigliget Castle was built by Szigliget also hosts a number of special events
of the castle and contains a collection of no less Abbot Favus from 1260 to 1262. From the middle of during the year, including the pike-perch festival and
than 900,000 postcards, as well as a collection of the 16th century, the fortress guarded the border to the Szigliget Summer Days.
The town of Szerencs is the gateway to the 36,000 bookplates – the designs attached to the the Balaton Uplands and was never captured by the
Tokaj-Hegyalja wine region, a World Heritage inside covers of books to indicate their owners. Turks. Sadly, the castle was struck by lightening and
Site. The castle was constructed from the ruins burnt to the ground at the end of the 17th century.
of a Benedictine monastery in 1556 by Tokaj The Gothic Reformation church in Szerencs is the
castle commander Ferenc Némethy. The late last resting place of Zsigmond Rákóczi and the The interesting story connected to the castle is that
Renaissance castle was occupied by a general of sweet museum in the city’s sugar factory is one of Pál Szentgyörgyi, the old master of the castle
one of King Miksa’s armies in 1565. of just three in the world. In addition to revealing who was lamed by the injuries sustained in battle
the secrets of sugar production through the ages, and needed the care of the pretty Ilka. The old man
A story from the Turkish occupation is still told it also showcases 800 sweet wrappers gathered would have liked her to marry his son Gábor, but the
today: The people of Szerencs were once from 48 countries on five continents. boy was called into battle and the master of a nearby
harvesting grapes in one of the nearby vineyards castle returned from war and took a shining to Ilka but
when they were ambushed by Turkish cavalry. was rejected. He was so enraged at his subsequent
There was enough time to hide the children, and rejection that he struck Szentgyörgyi and killed him.
the men and women grabbed stakes from the field The son returned and challenged the murderer to a
to drive away the enemy. A brave woman named duel and, with a well timed blow, severed his hand
www.hungary.com
Hungary Palace museums 12 13
Tata Budapest–Nagytétény
Castle, Castle Museum Száraz‐Rudnyányszky Castle,
Details:
The castle was built in the second half of the 14th Nagytétény Castle Museum
century by the Lackfi family. In 1397, it became a
Tata, Váralja u. 3. royal castle and Kings Zsigmond and Mátyás both public. By the early 19th century, the castle had been
Tel.: (+36‐34) 381‐251 enjoyed spending time within its walls. During the Details: divided into sections owned by the Szentgyörgyi-
muzeum@kunymuzeum.hu Turkish occupation, the fortress changed hands Budapest, Kastélypark u. 9‐11. Horváth, Count Hugonnai, Nedeczky and Count
www.kunymuzeum.hu no less than eight times, before being returned to Tel.: (+36‐1) 207‐0005/102 Montbach families respectively. Countess Vilma
Hungary for the last time in 1683. For a time in the Fax: (+36‐1) 207‐4680 Hugonnai, Hungary’s first female doctor, was born
Opening hours: 18th century, the Eszterházy family lived in the castle info@nagytetenyi.hu in the building in 1847. When she learned that the
May 1 – October 15 until a considerably more luxurious palace was built, www.nagytetenyi.hu universities of Switzerland had opened their doors to
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. also on the waterfront. The hall in the castle museum women, she enrolled at the medical faculty in Zurich.
October 16 – April 30 still contains the knight-shaped tiled fireplace. Opening hours: On her return, she made great steps to advance
Wed.‐Fri.: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. health education in Hungary, and is still celebrated
Sat.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The small town is considered one of the jewels in the by feminists to this day.
crown of the Transdanubia region with something to Budapest–Nagytétény D4
Tata CD3 catch the eye on almost every corner, such as the The beautifully restored rooms of the castle now
centuries-old ambiance of the Capuchin Church, the The most attractive castle within the borders of house a permanent exhibition of the history of
former palace of the Eszterházy family, the enormous Budapest is to be found in Nagytétény, making it the furniture from the 14th to the 19th centuries on
The highly photogenic castle overlooks the Old Lake English Park and its palm house, the delightful water perfect destination for a short day-trip. Báron György behalf of the Budapest Museum of Applied Arts.
in Tata, a town said to have been named after Count mills and the open-air geological museum. Száraz built the Baroque-style castle in 1716 making The museum is unique in Europe for chronicling the
Deofatus, whom Hungary’s first king Saint István use of the ruins of a medieval fortress on the site. His artisan era of furniture production from the Gothic
affectionately referred to as Tata. As Deodatus built The biggest event in the Tata calendar is the tapping son-in-law Baron József Rudnyánszky then rebuilt to the Biedermeier. The 27 rooms of the building
a Benedictine monastery here, the town was also of the lake every autumn to allow it to be used as the residence, completing work in 1778. contain some 300 items and sets of furniture, as
given the name. picture-perfect ice rink in the winter months. In 2009, well as ceramic fireplaces, wall and floor carpets,
the highly successful summer Water, Music and The curved gables of the extravagant late-Baroque chandeliers and paintings.
An old legend lives on about the Old Lake, too. Flowers Festival will be complemented for the first castle are decorated by stone vases and sculptures,
When enemy forces stormed the town, the sexton time by the Ice, Music and Frost Festival. while the facade is characterised by ledges, The castle also offers costumed tours, room hire
revealed to them where the treasures of the church columns and openings that create striking effects of and a venue for wedding photography, as well as an
were hidden. But when they set about digging up light and shadow. The centre of the building rises enticing calendar of events, such as its Christmas
the riches, the area suddenly transformed into a into a domed mansard roof with twin family crests festival.
bottomless lake, swallowing them whole. on its gable. The imposing castle is complemented
by a statue park and a French garden laid out in
geometric patterns, both of which are open to the
Visegrád Csesztve
Citadel, Castle Museum Madách House,
Details:
artful fashion by lady of the court Ilona Kottaner on
behalf of the widow of King Albert, who wished to
Imre Madách Memorial Museum
Visegrád, Burgberg later crown her unborn child, László V, with it. The building took on its late-Classicist form in 1864
Tel.: (+36‐26) 598‐082
Details: under the ownership of Károly Madách. The house
Fax: (+36‐26) 598‐084 The extensive fortress now contains a museum Csesztve, Kossuth u. 76. now contains the Imre Madách Memorial Museum
info@visegradmuzeum.hu with a variety of interesting exhibitions introducing Tel: (+36‐32) 310‐140, celebrating the life and work of the famous artist with
www.visegradmuzeum.hu the turbulent history of the castle, as well as (+36‐20) 423‐2188 a collection of his manuscripts and a room displaying
reconstructed models of the castle, a display madach.csesztve@museum.hu his furniture and personal effects – including his
Opening hours (castle): charting the history of the Hungarian crown, and a www.museum.hu cradle.
May 1 – October 31. hunting and fishing exhibition. Visitors can recover
Mon.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. from the hike to the top of the hill by enjoying the Opening hours: The protected park behind the house explains why
November 1 – April 30. breathtaking panorama of the thickly forested Pilis Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Madách always considered Csesztve to be an island
Mon.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Börzsöny Hills with the Danube winding between of harmony and tranquillity. The large tree under which
them. The palace on the riverbank was erected by Csesztve E2 the writer frequently sat is still standing even today.
Visegrád D3 Charles Robert and converted in the Renaissance
style by King Mátyás, earning the highest praise of The Madách House is located in the small village The rolling landscape of the Cserhát Hills makes the
Visegrád, easily accessible from Budapest by car, Europe’s top dignitaries of the day. Some parts of the of Csesztve nestled between the beautiful Cserhát surrounding area ideal hiking and cycling country,
train and even boat, is situated in one of Hungary’s palace have been restored in recent years and now Hills. The building was constructed in the Baroque with the onion-domed church of Mohora and the town
most beautiful locations, the famous Danube Bend. contain an example of a royal kitchen in the time of style in the late 18th century and later came into the of Balassagyarmat among the unmissable sights.
The castle on the cliff top above the Danube is also King Mátyás and an interior from the age of King possession of the Madách family by marriage. The
among the country’s most picturesque, while the Zsigmond, as well as a pleasant café. famous writer, poet, lawyer and politician lived in
royal palace at the foot of the hill ranks among the Csesztve from 1844 to 1853.
finest surviving buildings from the Renaissance Other sights include the exhibitions in the Solomon
period. The citadel and tower beneath it were built Tower, the Renaissance restaurant on the banks of Madách is the greatest figure in Hungarian literature
following the Tatar onslaught of 1241-42 and there the Danube – where period costume is available for of the 19th century, completing his greatest work,
are a great many interesting stories attached to the hire on special occasions – and the thermal baths The Tragedy of Man in 1960. After serving as
site. The most fearsome was the attempt on the lives at Lepence. There is even a summer bob-sled track commissioner of Nógrád County during the 1848-49
of King Charles I and his family by Felician Zach, for children. It is also worth checking the broad war of independence, he harboured János Rákóczy,
who was immediately slain, along with his family. programme of events and festivals throughout the the secretary to deposed Regent-President Lajos
In 1386, successor to the throne King Charles II of year, including the International Palace Games and Kossuth, and was arrested and sentenced to one
Naples was also murdered in Visegrád. And in 1440, Renaissance Days. year’s imprisonment in 1852. In 1861, he was elected
the crown was stolen from the Visegrád citadel in to parliament, but died prematurely three years later.
www.hungary.com
Hungary Palace museums 14 15
Érd Füzérradvány
Wimpffen Castle, Károlyi Castle
Hungarian Geography Museum Details:
again following World War II from 1946 to 1948,
when the popular hotel and its antique furniture were
Today, the former residence of the count is a museum seized by the state.
Details: revisiting a variety of topics, including Hungarian
Füzérradvány, Kossuth L. u. 4/a
Tel./Fax: (+36‐47) 370‐078
Érd, Budai út 4. explorers and the scientists of the Carpathian Basin. Today, the former residence is managed by the
mag@mag.hu
Tel./Fax: (+36‐23) 363‐036 Artefacts from Hungary’s famous Asian explorers National Trust of Monuments and the building
www.mag.hu
foldrajzi.muzeum@vivamail.hu are also held here, including those of Sándor Kőrösi has been restored in several phases. The castle’s
www.foldrajzimuzeum.hu Csoma, inventor of Tibetology and author of the first exhibitions conjure up the age of aristocracy,
Opening hours:
Tibeti-English dictionary, African explorers László complete with study, kitchen, the count’s salon,
April 1 – October 30.
Opening hours: Magyar and Sámuel Teleki, discoverer of Lakes bedrooms and a bathroom with a marble tub.
Tue.‐Sun.: 9 a.m. – 6.30 p.m.
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a‐m. – 6 p.m. Rudolf (Turkana) and Stefania (Chew Bahir). Relics
from the Sahara exploration of The English Patient Füzérradvány H1 Not far from Füzérradvány, the town of Sátoraljaújhely
Érd D4 László Almásy and hunting trophies of statesman boasts several sights, including its recently
Zsigmond Széchenyi are also kept here. constructed chairlift, a medieval network of winding
One of the country’s largest landscaped English cellars and Gothic and Baroque churches.
The Wimpffen Castle, home to the Hungarian Érd also boasts a Turkish minaret, a Baroque chapel gardens provides a setting for the attractive Károlyi
Museum of Geography, is located in the centre of and a monument featuring 12 bells capable of Castle in Füzérradvány. The site was formerly
Érd, a suburb of Budapest. The core of the museum playing 45 melodies. occupied by a town house first mentioned in official
is inherited from the Pelikán guest house built by records in 1626. The Károlyi family acquired the
Prince Fülöp Batthyány-Strattmann that has stood estate in 1686, which it leased out for many years.
since 1845. The house, which records from 1702 state had fallen
The guest house almost certainly received its name into disrepair, was renovated by the leaseholders.
from the animal featured on the Batthyány family
crest. During the 1848-49 war of independence, Today’s neo-Renaissance-style castle was construc-
top-ranking Austrian military officers stayed here, ted from the plans of well known architect Miklós Ybl
as well as mourners guarding the earthly remains by Ede Károly from 1857 to 1877. The palace was
of culture minister Baron Eötvös József. And it later to become Hungary’s first castle hotel, with the
was after breakfast at the castle that Count Gyula idea thought to come from Mária Windisch Graetz,
Andrássy appointed Tivadar Pauler as his new wife of István Károlyi.
minister of culture. Baron Sina and Count Wimpffen
later owned the property, the latter converting it into The luxury hotel opened its gates on May 8, 1938
an old-fashioned castle in 1884. and was remarkably profitable until 1945, and then
Fertôd–Eszterháza Gödöllô
Eszterházy Castle, Castle Museum Grassalkovich Castle,
Details:
life, in Eszterháza, writing some of his most
famous works at the palace, including the Farewell
Royal Castle Museum
Fertôd, Joseph Haydn u. 2. Symphony. During this period, Eszterháza was one noblemen on horseback shielding the royal couple
of the centres of European musical life and Haydn Details: from the crowds. The castle grounds were graced
Tel.: (+36‐99) 537‐640
Fax: (+36‐99) 537‐642 clearly felt at home here, once writing, “I wish to live Gödöllô, Szabadság tér 1. by 70,000 candles, lighting up the dinner held in the
mag@mag.hu, and die in the service of His Highness the Prince.” Tel.: (+36‐28) 410‐124 banquet hall on the second floor. Members of the court
eszterhaza@t‐online.hu Fax: (+36‐28) 423‐159 and international guests were unanimous in agreement
www.mag.hu Today, the former residence and its lavishly decorated informacio@kiralyikastely.hu that they had never experienced hospitality of the kind
rooms are open to the public with furniture, mirrors, www.kiralyikastely.hu served up by Count Grassalkovich. In 1867, the palace
Opening hours: chandeliers and statues providing a glimpse into the passed into state ownership, but it remained the royal
March 15 – October 31 height of the Rococo design movement. Opening hours: summer residence until World War I and Queen
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 6 p.m. April 1 – October 31. Elizabeth, better known as Sissy, spent more than
November 2 – March 14 Complete restoration is currently in progress, but Mon.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 2,000 nights here. Up until World War II, the building
Fri.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 4 p.m. the palace remains open to visitors. A taste of the November 1 – March 31. played host to government officials.
celebrated Eszterházy cake in the palace café is a Mon.‐Sun.: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Guided tours in Hungarian, must, while music lovers can enjoy a full programme The building is now enjoying a new life as a royal castle
English and German of events, opera performances and concerts, as well Gödöllô E3 museum, with its lavish rooms sure to leave visitors
as the annual Haydn festival. The festival in 2009 gasping for breath. Points of interest include the study
Fertôd B3 promises to be extra special as it marks 200 years The seven main wings and twin domes of this enormous of King Franz Joseph I, Queen Elizabeth’s changing
since the composer’s death. palace are a major stop-off point on the international room and secret ground-floor salon, and, of course,
Work on Hungary’s largest and most extravagant Sissy tour and can be reached from Budapest in just the genuine Baroque-era toilet.
palace was begun by Count József Eszterházy in After visiting the castle, it is worth exploring the 20 minutes. Work on the Baroque-style building was
the Baroque style in 1720. The 126-room, horseshoe- outstanding natural beauty of Lake Fertő and the initiated by Count Antal Grassalkovich in 1735, who The palace is also equipped with a well stocked gift
shaped building took on its present form in the years Fertő-Hanság National Park, part of a UNESCO later expanded and converted the palace in a variety shop, a café with fittings dating back 150 years and
between 1760 and 1770 at the behest of Prince World Heritage site extending across the border into of styles. In 1785, a Baroque theatre was even installed serving Sissy and Maria Theresa coffees, and a gallery
Miklós Eszterházy. Austria. in the residence. of photos from Hungary’s golden age at the turn of the
20th century. The museum is also an attractive venue
The Rococo palace complex now serves a wide One of the most memorable events at the famous for events all year round, from classical music festivals
variety of purposes, among them opera house, Gödöllő Palace occurred in 1751, when Maria Theresa to the Advent Castle Days.
puppet theatre, music hall, French garden and and her husband Francis of Lorraine spent three days
English park. Eszterházy court composer Joseph in Gödöllő on a visit to Buda. Some 20,000 people
Haydn spent 25 years, around half of his productive are said to have gathered to see them with young
www.hungary.com
Hungary Palace museums 16 17
Gyöngyös Keszthely
Orczy Castle, Mátra Museum Festetics Castle, Helikon Castle Museum
revolution had been crushed just a few weeks later, Today, the palace is open to the public and con-
Details: by Prince Ivan Paskievic, commander of the Russian
Details: tains painstakingly restored interiors and a library
Gyöngyös, Kossuth u. 40. forces. Keszthely, Kastély u. 1. of several thousand antique volumes, hunting and
Tel.: (+36‐37) 505‐530 Tel.: (+36‐83) 314‐194 model railway exhibitions, and a collection of car-
Fax: (+36‐37) 505‐531 The museum that occupies the building today charts khelikon@freemail.hu riages and coaches.
matramuzeum@ace.hu the development of hunting by way of a series of www.helikonkastely.hu
www.matramuzeum.hu three-dimensional models and explores the history The large fountain in front of the palace helps cool
of Gyöngyös. A collection of minerals and fossils Opening hours: the grounds in summer and the palace’s function
Opening hours: is also on display, the most notable of which is an June 1 – June 30. room is a popular concert venue. In addition to
March 2 – October 31. “life-sized” mammoth skeleton. The mammoth is the Tue.‐Sun: 9 a.m – 5 p.m. Lake Balaton, the resort town of Keszthely is rich in
Tue.‐Sun.: 9 a.m – 5 p.m. symbol of the museum – T-shirts bearing the fossils July 1 – Aug 31. attractions, such as its pedestrian street, the Bala-
November 1 – March 1. are available in the gift shop. Tue.‐Sun.: 9 a.m – 6 p.m. ton Museum, several churches and the wooden
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 4 p.m. September 1 – May 31. “island baths”.
After viewing the castle, take the opportunity to relax Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 5 p.m.
Gyöngyös F3 in the English garden surrounding the castle. There
is much to see in the town Gyöngyös, too, including Keszthely B5
The recently restored Orczy Palace – and the Mátra old churches, Baroque palaces and the Franciscan
Museum within its walls – is one of the most popular library. The Festetics Castle, not far from the shores of
sights in the town of Gyöngyös at the foot of the Lake Balaton, was built by Count Kristóf Festetics
Mátra Hills. The building was erected by Baron Lőrinc Gyöngyös is also an excellent starting point for in 1745. His family expanded the Baroque building
Orczy in the Baroque style between 1765 and 1770, hiking tours into the Mátra hills and the lookout on on several occasions in later years and it was given
but his family converted the residence to adopt the Kékestető, Hungary’s highest point, the Mátraház today’s neo-Baroque style by Prince Tasziló Feste-
Classicist style in 1826. The palace was passed by Forest Reserve and the Sástó Lake in Mátrafüred. tics and his English wife Mary Hamilton in 1880.
marriage to Count Szapary, before being acquired
by Prince Auersperg, Count Westphalen, and finally One of the owners of the palace, György Feste-
the family of Baron Wildberg, which in turn sold it to tics, founded Europe’s first agriculture university in
the town in 1937. Keszthely in 1797. The nobleman, known for his
love of literature and the arts, organised the exu-
A string of famous guests passed through the berant Helikon festivals at the castle featuring the
palace, the Russian Czar Alexander I stayed here in works of contemporary writers and poets.
1814, General Artúr Görgely held a meeting during
the 1848-49 war of independence, followed, after the
Horpács Körmend
Mikszáth House, Batthyány Palace,
Kálmán Mikszáth Memorial Museum Dr. László Batthyány‐Strattmann Museum
The building now houses a museum displaying operations in Körmend, 6,000 of which were eye
Details: the writer’s furniture between the opulent twisting Details: operations. Known as “the doctor of the poor”, the
Horpács, Kossuth Lajos út 2. columns of the lobby on the ground floor, while his Körmend, Szabadság tér 2‐4. prince was beautified by the Pope in 2003.
Tel.: (+36‐35) 382‐033, life and work are celebrated upstairs, including his Tel./Fax: (+36‐94) 410‐425
(+36‐30) 7499‐469 trademark long-stemmed pipe. dbslm@muzeumkormend.t‐online.hu Some of the ample halls of the palace are now set
mikszath.horpacs@museum.hu www.savariamuseum.hu aside for a museum in honour of the prince, while
www.museum.hu The house is surrounded by a small protected portraits of noblemen adorn the staircase and the
park and the building is flanked by a collection Opening hours: flowery Rococo salon pays permanent tribute to the
Opening hours: of photographs of the author, as well as a seated November 1 – March 31., Tue.‐Sat: Batthyányi family. Rich in interactive elements, the
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 2 p.m. sculpture. Mikszáth’s grave can also be found in the 10 a.m – 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. exhibition introduces the most influential members
Horpács cemetery, the nearby Drégely and Nógrád April 1 – October 31., Tue.‐Sat: of the famous family through models in authentic
Horpács E3 castles are worth the climb and the shores of the 9 a.m – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. period dress surrounded by their personal effects
Bánki Lake make a nice place to watch the sun go and documents.
The house of one of Hungary’s best loved writers down. Körmend A5
can be found in Horpács, a pleasant village wedged In keeping with the history of the palace, a touch tour
between the Cserhát Hills and the Ipoly River. It is The Körmend Castle near the banks of the Rába of copies of Batthyány family relics is also offered
said the writer travelled all over Hungary looking for a River was probably built during the time of Árpád, to blind and sight-impaired visitors. In addition to
place to settle down. If he saw the house was empty although it is first documented in 1459. The touching the various objects, visitors can try on a
and there was no smoke coming from the chimney, Batthyány family constructed the core of the palace Baroque wig and the insignia and chain of the order
he would turn his back on the property. If the garden still standing today in 1655 – complete with the four of the golden fleece.
did not enjoy the shelter of large trees it was no good wings and round corner turrets.
– but, at the same time, he was afraid of shadows. A stroll around the English garden in the palace
All things considered, it is all the more remarkable The castle, damaged during Rákóczy’s war of grounds makes a pleasant way to relax, while
that he purchased his Horpács estate without ever independence, was rebuilt by the Batthyány family Körmend is also home to Hungary’s only collection of
setting eyes on it. in 1710 and was then turned into a Baroque-style historical shoes, including those of Queen Elizabeth
palace in 1730. Prior to World War II, the palace (Sissy).
The town house was built by Mikszáth himself, was owned by famous eye doctor Prince László
borrowing heavily from neo-Classicist design Batthyány-Strattmann, who treated his patients free
elements in 1907. His son, Kálmán the younger, of charge and spent two-thirds of the income from
provided the plans. the estate on treating the sick. He carried out 20,000
www.hungary.com
Hungary Palace museums 18 19
Martonvásár Nádasdladány
Brunszvik Castle, Nádasdy Castle,
Beethoven Memorial Museum Nádasdy Academy
While the property was still owned by the Brunszvik and staff buildings. The unique “sprinkler system”
Details: family, Ludwig van Beethoven visited Martonvásár Details: on one of the terraces also came in useful, when,
Martonvásár, Brunszvik u. 2. on several occasions to give piano lessons to Nádasdladány, Kastély park 1. by means of a secret button, guests could be
Tel.: (+36‐22) 569‐500 Countesses Teréz and Jozefin. Speculation still Tel./Fax: (+36‐22) 590‐015 showered by a refreshing cool mist on hot summer
martonvasar@martonvasar.hu abounds as to whether the composer was in mag@mag.hu, www.mag.hu days.
www.martonvasar.hu love with one of the girls, or indeed Countess
Charlotte, or their cousin Countess Giulietta Opening hours: The National Trust of Monuments currently
Opening hours: Guicardi. Martonvásár remains the focal point of April 1 – November 5 operates the palace, ensuring a full programme
Tue.‐Fri: 10 a.m‐12 p.m. and the Beethoven cult in Hungary to this day, with Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 6 p.m. of events can go ahead even despite ongoing
2 p.m.‐4 p.m. the memorial museum in the castle displaying renovation work. In part of the ground floor of
Sat.‐Sun: 10 a.m‐12 p.m. and countless Beethoven-related artefacts, as well as Nádasdladány C5 the building, a cornucopia of period furniture and
2 p.m.‐6 p.m. historical items from the Brunszvik family, such as interiors is on display to the public. The two most
Park: Mon.‐Sun.: 8 a.m‐6 p.m. the family’s exquisite piano and a locket guarding a Nádasdladány, just a few kilometres from the M7 eye-catching rooms in the palace are the wood-
lock of Beethoven’s hair. motorway connecting Budapest to Lake Balaton, panelled Forefathers’ Hall and the library, which
Martonvásár D4 is perhaps Hungary’s most attractive neo-Gothic is constantly being augmented by books and
The atmospheric English park around the castle castle, built in the style of the famous Tudor paintings dispersed throughout Europe during
Martonvásár, just a short drive from Budapest, is features a lake with an island on which Beethoven residences. World War II.
the location of one of Hungary’s most beautiful concerts are held by the National Philharmonic
neo-Gothic palaces and English gardens. The core Orchestra every summer. The castle was built from 1873 to 76 by Count A short walk through the castle grounds is also a
of the residence was commissioned by Sándor Ferenc Nádásdy incorporating the walls of the must for the family’s bare-brick church built in the
Beniczky in the 1730s and it was later extended In addition to the castle, the town also boasts the 18th century town house belonging to Count Gothic style of northern Germany. The castle also
by the family of Count Brunszvik in the 1780s, who world’s only nursery school museum in honour Schniedegg. Once completed, the building was provides a venue for the Nádasdy Academy run
then converted the building in the 1820s and 30s. of Teréz Brunszvik, who founded Hungary’s first fitted with the most modern technologies of the by the descendants of the former owners of the
Around 1875, the building was given an sumptuous kindergarten. day, many of them truly unique. For example, the estate.
neo-Gothic facelift, including loopholes, thin turrets noble family not only used a bell attached to a
and pointed arches in the windows designed cord to call their servants in the cellar, there was
to mimic those of an English castle. The famous also a network of pipes installed to allow them to
castle was later purchased by Crown-Price Joseph speak directly. This was later superseded by an
Hapsburg and then renowned brewer Antal Dreher. internal telephone network connecting not only
the individual rooms, but also important service
Nagycenk Ozora
Széchenyi Palace, Castle,
István Széchenyi Memorial Museum Pipo Castle
Hungary. His residence was the first building in to protect Hungary’s southern border. Zsigmond
Details: Hungary to have gas lighting and it was among the
Details: entrusted Pipo with overseeing gold mining, before
Nagycenk, Kiscenki út 3. first with running water and flushing toilets installed. Ozora, Várhegy u. sending him to the south of the country, where it
Tel./Fax: (+36‐99) 360‐023 Innovative low ventilating cellars were employed to Tel.: (+36‐74) 498‐652 emerged that Pipo was at least as talented a general
nagycenk@gymsmuzeum.hu keep the palace dry. mag@mag.hu as he was as a banker. It was under his tutelage that
www.nagycenk.hu pipovar@gmail.com military mastermind János Hunyadi learned to outwit
The arched halls and long corridors of the building www.mag.hu the Turks.
Opening hours: are now open to the public and the rooms have been Around 1510, the building was converted to adopt
April 1 – October 31 decorated with the finest furniture and antiques, as Opening hours: the fashions of the Italian Renaissance, but the castle
Mon.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 6 p.m. well as artefacts connected to many of Széchenyi’s March 15 – November 1 was occupied by the Turkish invasion in 1545, only
November 1 – March 31 ambitious projects. These include a model of his Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 6 p.m. to be regained after a long siege in 1686. From the
Mon.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 5 p.m. steamboat and the silver trowel used to lay the November 2 – March 14 early 17th century, the Eszterházy family owned the
foundation stone of Széchenyi’s Chain Bridge in Fri.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 4 p.m. castle and it was converted into a granary.
Nagycenk A3 Budapest. The windows of the salon on the first floor
open onto a stunning view of the palace grounds, Ozora D5‐6 The Pipo Castle is now operated by the National
Just outside Sopron and on the border of the Lake the country’s most beautiful Baroque French garden Trust of Monuments and has been restored in the
Fertő World Heritage Site, the Nagycenk Palace with its neatly trimmed hedges, labyrinth and The recent renovation of this castle and its rooms Renaissance style with the interior courtyard and
was built by generations of the Széchenyi family, fountain. The end of the garden is marked out by a signalled the rediscovery of one of Hungary’s hidden corridors featuring reconstructed wood carvings
highly influential noblemen who played a key role 2.6 kilometre avenue once lined by 645 linden trees. gems. The Ozora Palace is a genuine one-of-a-kind of the period. The museum includes the bedroom
in Hungarian history through the centuries. A stone among Hungarian historical buildings as most similar of Pipo of Ozora’s wife, the Renaissance throne
carving of their family crest still adorns the central The palace also hosts several exhibitions worth examples of Renaissance architecture have only room with its fireplace, and the banquet hall. The
gable of the enormous Baroque building even today. visiting, including one charting the history of remained as ruins or have been rendered almost chapel is said to guard the bones of Saint George,
The palace was constructed from a town house industry and technology, and another exploring unrecognisable by subsequent reconstruction. while artefacts from the life of Pipo of Ozora paint
that previously occupied the site around 1760 and currency through the ages. The east wing The original Gothic building was commissioned by a picture of life under King Zsigmond on the first
was extended in the late-Baroque and Classicist houses a stud farm, while the west wing operates Florence-born Pipo of Ozora in 1416 and evidence floor, complete with a collection of replica weapons
styles in the late 18th century. A new wing was as a hotel and restaurant. A short ride on the suggests it was completed by 1423. Much to the in the former arsenal, Pipo’s reconstructed armour
added between 1834 and 1840. István Széchenyi, Széchenyi narrow-gauge railway is an unforgettable amazement of King Zsigmond and his court at a and several hunting trophies. The 15th century
often referred to as “The Greatest Hungarian”, was experience, especially for the children who operate royal luncheon, the young Italian merchant was experience is completed by a Renaissance
responsible not only for fitting the castle with the the 3.6-kilometre route. able to calculate in a matter of minutes the cost restaurant and a varied programme of events in the
latest technologies, he also did much to modernise of maintaining the 12,000-strong cavalry required summer months.
www.hungary.com
Hungary Palace museums 20 21
Szécsény Vaja
Forgách Castle, Ferenc Kubinyi Museum Vay Castle, Ádám Vay Museum
Count Ábrahám Vay redeveloped the castle in the
Details:
Details: museum in 1946, but the building was confiscated Romantic style in 1850 and the building his been
by the state. For some time after that, the family Vaja, Damjanich u. 75. recently restored. It currently houses a museum
Szécsény, Ady Endre út 7. rented an apartment in its own castle. Tel.: (+36‐44) 385‐297 displaying furniture from Rákóczi’s time, as well
Tel./Fax: (+36‐32) 370‐143 Fax: (+36‐44) 385‐367 as the National Taragot Centre. The taragot is
kubinyi.szecseny@museum.hu In the early 1970s, the building was restored vayadamm@t‐online.hu an ancient Hungarian woodwind instrument
www.museum.hu to accommodate the Ferenc Kubinyi museum. www.museum.hu that gained iconic status during the war of
Another round of renovations followed in 2005 and independence. Members of the Rákóczi Taragot
Opening hours: Opening hours:
the castle now houses several exhibitions, such Society are happy to teach all comers how to play
Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 4 p.m. April 1 – October 31
as the collection of Bronze Age archaeological this wonderful sounding instrument. They even
finds complete with a burial scene or the materials Tue.‐Sun.: 10 a.m – 6 p.m. have an international conference once ever four
Szécsény E2 November 1 – March 31
telling stories of local castles and their battles years.
with the Turks. The upper class atmosphere of the Mon.‐Fri.: 8 a.m – 4 p.m.
The small town of Szécsény in the Cserhát Hills is castle is brought to life in the interiors of the 19th The castle is encompassed by an ancient park,
rich in historical buildings. Its Baroque castle was century women’s quarters – a salon, reading room Vaja H2 but the forecourt is decorated with a selection of
built around 1753 by Count Forgách, incorporating and bedroom – while the north-eastern corner statues of influential Kuruc figures. Vaja is also
masonry from the medieval castle that previously tower introduces the history of the castle. One of the oldest castles in the Great Plains region known for its Gothic church with four domed
occupied the site. In the late 18th century, an stands in Vaja and has been owned by the Vay towers and its thatched folk museum.
English garden was landscaped in the grounds. In the small town itself, it is worth visiting the – family for an astonishing 527 years. Evidence
slightly leaning – Baroque fire tower with its fire- suggests that Ábrahám Vay began work on the
In the mid 19th century, the building was purchased fighting exhibition, as well as the originally Gothic, castle in 1418, but the first written record of the
by Ferenc Pulszky, a famous politician during the but now predominantly Baroque Franciscan property only dates back to 1554. The largest
war of independence. In 1943, ownership of the church and monastery. In the latter, the Gothic section of the residence was built in the first third
palace was passed to the scientist and butterfly vaulted room in which Prince Ferenc Rákóczi II of the 16th century.
researcher Baron Béla Lipthay. During World once stayed is open to the public. Two important meetings took place in the Vaja
War II, the first floor was used as a Soviet military Castle during Rákóczi’s war of independence. At
hospital and the salon was apparently used as an the start of the uprising in the summer of 1703,
operating theatre. Ferenc Rákóczi II met Ádám Vay and prominent
members of his family to ask them to side with
The locally respected Lipthay family would have his Kuruc forces. In January 1711, he returned
liked to have handed over the castle to the town’s to discuss a ceasefire with Count János Pálffy,
commander-in-chief of the Emperor’s army.
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Legend
Motorway
Highway
Main road
first class
Main road
second class
Railway
Castle
Hotels
Hungary Castle Hotels 24 25
Buy a washroom and adjacent guest houses, while those looking for joie de vivre should opt for one
of the 31 rooms in the French-style manor house. The exclusive restaurant and wine cellar will
satisfy the palate of even the most discerning gourmand, while children are sure to love petting
the animals and frolicking in the creative playground and pool. The family rooms even have a
Castle Card!
• Accepted in 14 castles
secret cubbyhole for children.
The castle grounds also feature a wellness centre with French and Moroccan baths and a
beauty salon, as well as an outdoor pool, a sports centre masquerading as a medieval fortress,
conference rooms and a grill terrace.
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Hungary Castle Hotels 28 29
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Hungary Castle Hotels 30 31
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Hungary Castle Hotels 32 33
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Hungary Castle Hotels 34 35
The attached Zsuzsanna Hotel is connected to a spring delivering water at 55°C from a depth of
1260 metres. It has both indoor and outdoor massage and swimming pools, the use of which are
free of charge for guests. Thanks to its high salt content, the water is highly effective in easing joint
pains and treating skin diseases, locomotive, heart and circulatory complaints.
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Hungary Castle Hotels 36 37
Andrássy Kúria Wine & Spa Hotel Gróf Degenfeld Castle Hotel
Tarcal Tarcal
Details: The Andrássy town house in Tarcal was built in the second half of the 18th century in the Baroque Details: The building, situated in Tarcal and part of the Tokaj-Hegyalja UNESCO World Heritage Site,
style before being converted in line with the Classicist fashion of the early 19th century. The hotel started life in 1870 as the headquarters of the Hungarian Royal College of Viticulture and
H‐3915 Tarcal, Fô u. 94. H‐3915 Tarcal, Terézia kert 9.
also underwent considerable redevelopment and renovation prior to opening its doors in May Winemaking. Today, the interiors of the hotel rooms achieve a harmony of Empire furniture,
Tel.: (+36‐47) 580‐015 Tel.: (+36‐47) 580‐400
2008. With 40 rooms and a presidential suite attached to the Andrássy Winery and vineyards, the antique carpets and carefully selected colours. Antique chairs and desks, old paintings and
Fax: (+36‐47) 580‐016 Fax: (+36‐47) 580‐401
hotel is intended to serve professional and leisure wine tourism of every kind, from cellar tours and Venice chandeliers also conjure up a 19th century atmosphere in the salon and library.
hotel@andrassy.hu hotel@degenfeld.hu
winetasting to harvest and factory viewings and presentations on local winemaking processes.
www.andrassy.hu www.hotelgrofdegenfeld.hu The hotel takes its name from Count Degenfeld-Schonburg, a family of Swiss provenance
The hotel’s four-star rating, highly qualified staff and excellent catering and wellness services that was appointed to the rank of baron in 1625 before being elevated to Count status by the
Tarcal G2 Tarcal G2
guarantee an enjoyable and pleasant stay for couples and groups alike. The hotel offers 2 standard Monarchy when Kristóf Degenfeld was made Royal State Minister of Prussia in 1716. Of the
Info: rooms, 33 superior suites, 3 deluxe twin bedrooms, 2 junior suites and one 100 m² presidential branch of the family that settled in Hungary, Count Imre Degenfeld, who also owned land in
Info:
Beds: 40 rooms and one presidential suite suite. The rooms offer panoramic views of the Tokaj vineyards and the Terézia Chapel, while the Tokaj, was head steward of Szabolcs County during the 1848-49 war of independence and
Beds: 42
Prices: € 120- € 140 presidential suite opens onto Tokaj valley. The VinoSense Spa is Hungary’s first vinotherapy wellness 150 of his subjects fought in the army. The family played an important role in the Tokaj region
Prices: € 105- € 160
centre employing grape and seed extracts to prevent and slow skin ageing. Further treatments as early as the mid 19th century and continues to produce excellent wines on its 100-hectare
include baths enriched with Tokaj wine extracts and essential oils, and nourishing mineral skin estate.
packs.
In addition to enjoying the hospitality of the Castle Hotel, guests should by all means experience
The wellness area contains Finnish, infra-red and bio-saunas, a steam bath, aromatherapy, colour the rich history of the ancient winemaking towns of Tarcal and Tokaj at the foot of Tokaj Hill.
therapy, a salt chamber, a whirlpool, a swimming pool and jet showers. The winter garden is ideal for The Degenfeld family recently also bought back and fully renovated the Degenfeld Palace on
sunbathing and the massage elements in the cellar bath offer a unique experience. The Passione Tokaj’s picturesque main square. It has since been converted into the Degenfeld Restaurant
restaurant menu combines local and international cuisine, and includes dishes prepared with Tokaj and conference centre.
wines and pastries and cakes baked on site. The hotel also boasts excellent function facilities: The
conference room has capacity for 100 guests and smaller meeting rooms are equipped with the
latest technology for both business and family events. The surrounding protected area also offers
countless leisure options, from woodland and river tours to fi shing and hunting.
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Hungary Castle Hotels, Restaurant 38 39
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Hungary Partners, Contents 40 41
Medicinal springs
Non-smoking Disabled facilities
(distance in km)
Published by the Hungarian National Tourist Office in collaboration with Castle Hotels of Hungary.
Text: Dr. Zsolt Virág
Historic Hotels of Europe Top Trade Layout: Csilla Szabó, Beyer Kreatív
www.historichotelsofeurope.com H-1149 Budapest, Angol u. 77. Map: Topográf Kft., 2009., www.topograf.hu
www.toptrade.hu Printing: Komáromi Nyomda és Kiadó Kft.
Distributed free of charge
Prices given in this document are for information purposes only. For precise details, please contact the provider directly.
Please note that the categories displayed alongside the names of the hotels are assigned according to Government
Decree No. 54/2003 (VIII 29). The decree can be viewed on the Hungarian National Tourist Office website
(www.hungary.com) and on the Hotel Association of Hungary website (www.hah.hu).
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Know before you go
Transport
Standing at the centre of Europe, Hungary is well served by You can reach Budapest by boat (see mahartpassnave.hu
transport links from abroad. The main international airports are for further information) from Vienna and Bratislava during
Budapest Ferihegy (bud.hu), FlyBalaton Airport (flybalaton.hu) the summer; you can also take ferries for day trips to the Hungarofest – KLASSZ Music Office presents:
near Lake Balaton and Airport Debrecen in the East. Danube Bend.
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Pécs, the Borderless City
Pécs, the centre of the South Transdanubian Region in Hungary is going to bear the title of European Capital of Cul-
ture in 2010. The notion of the borderless city carries the message of openness in all fields of life, as well as the ability to
incorporate and be receptive.
While walking the streets of Pécs, the 2000- year-old history will present itself: the traces of the old city from the
Roman Age, the Early Christian Necropolis, the first Hungarian university, the inner city of the Middle Ages surrounded
by a wall, the Turkish mosques, the cathedral with the related buildings, the Zsolnay Quarter, the Museum Quarter in
Káptalan street – the cultural variegation of European history.
Pécs hosts numerous festivals and other cultural events year after year, which characterizes the traditionally vivid
intellectual life of the city.
In 2010 Pécs will celebrate as European Capital of Culture, presenting its genuine treasures to the world: the cultural
heritage of the city as well as its aptitude for innovation.
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