Sights of Hungary. ​50 interesting facts about Hungary What is Hungary associated with? Interesting facts

Reading time: 3 minutes. Views 75 Published Nov 10, 2010

Hungary is wonderful and beautiful country. Moreover, it is located not far from Russia (God himself ordered to visit it, but I have not visited it yet). I associate Hungary with Lake Balaton (there really is one there) and awesome wine. To get to know the country better, I decided to collect interesting facts about Hungary, because... The RuNet, as usual, is full of only dull copy-paste.

1. Surprisingly, Hungary is almost the oldest country in Europe. Both were founded in 896 (earlier than France and Germany)

2. The average Hungarian eats about half a kilogram of lard per week. The pigs are indignant, but they can’t do anything about it.

3. Since 1999, Hungary has been a full member of NATO. And in 2004, recruitment into the Hungarian army began to be carried out on a voluntary basis.

4. A little unpleasant. According to EU statistics, Hungary has the highest cancer death rate in Europe, as well as a high female suicide rate (why would that be, I wonder).

5. In 1944, Hungary gave the world Erno Rubik, and he, in turn, in 1974 gave all the inhabitants of the planet the most popular puzzle - the Rubik's cube. On this moment About 350 million units of this toy have been sold worldwide.

6. As it turned out, Hungarians are generally quite inventive people. In addition to the Rubik's cube, they added such useful and convenient things to the modern world as a ballpoint pen (invented by Laszlo Biro), holography (Dennis Gabor), the BASIC programming language, krypton light bulbs, etc.

7. As I already said, in Hungary there is Lake Balaton, which is the largest in Central Europe. For Hungary, the lake is of enormous importance, since its surroundings are the most important resort area of ​​the country. The Hungarians themselves call Lake Balaton the Hungarian Sea, although the depth of the reservoir is extremely shallow. The most deep place– 12.5 meters.

8. Hungary produces one of the most delicious dessert wines (on our planet, of course)) - Tokaj wine. The wine gets its name from the Tokaj area where it is produced.

Although, in fairness, it should be noted that Hungary is famous not only for Tokaji, but also for wonderful dry white wines, and among strong drinks, palinka (fruit vodka) is well known to many.

9. However, Hungary is famous not only for drinks, but also for food. Hungarian cuisine is well known far beyond the borders of this country. Among the popular dishes of Hungarian cuisine are: goulash, paprikash, perkölt, Gyulai and Chabaj sausages, salami, Debrecen sausages, Dobos cake, etc.

The photo shows the well-known goulash

10. And finally, this one fun fact, in Budapest (the capital of Hungary) there is the most long tram in the world. Its length is 53.9 meters!

Useful information about Hungary

Capital

State area– 93,030 km²

official languages– Hungarian

Currency of Hungary

National flag of Hungary

Visa to Hungary – a national visa is required at the Hungarian embassy or a Schengen visa is required

Time difference with Moscow– Hungary is 2 hours less than Moscow

Do you know any other interesting facts about Hungary? We are waiting for you in the comments)

The Hungarians have a crown national food is goulash, and depending on the thickness and ingredients, this dish can be either the first course or the second. The soup is called "Gulyas leves" and is a flavorful stew with a generous amount of melt-in-your-mouth meat, complemented by dumplings (balls of dough), flavored with seasonings and paprika, and served with a slice of wheat bread fresh from the oven. The flavor of this unusual and hearty dish is added by the way it is served - waiters often bring goulash soup in beautiful clay pots. Besides, National cuisine It is also famous for goulash as a second dish, of which there are several varieties. The name of the stew is "Porkolt". As a rule, to prepare goulash, tender meat is taken - beef, pork or lamb, which is fried and stewed in a dressing of onions, tomatoes, paprika and aromatic herbs. Hungarian chefs also paid attention to vegetarians, having come up with something special for them - “Gomba porkolt” - mushroom goulash.

3. Relax on Lake Balaton

Balaton is rightly called the “Hungarian sea”, because millions of vacationers come here as an alternative to sea tours. Thanks to the mild climate, the abundance of adjacent forests and warm water, a holiday at Lake Balaton is a real sunny paradise for fans of beach activities. In addition to traditional entertainment on the lake, you can do water sports(sailing and surfing), as well as take part in equestrian competitions, go fishing or admire the local wild “residents” - herons, geese and swans. The beach season at Balaton begins with the onset May days and ends late autumn. However, the winter lake also captivates the eye with its splendor, covering itself with a lacy blanket of ice and as if hiding its waters from the winter cold.

4. Climb Mount Gellert

Mount Gellert is one of the most striking attractions of both Budapest and Hungary. The mountain received its name as a sign of respect for Saint Gellert, who was the spiritual mentor of the King of Hungary, Stephen, and also baptized the Hungarian people. However, he was subsequently punished in a terrible way - he was placed in a barrel studded with nails and lowered from the mountain into the waters of the Danube. Therefore, the mountain was named after the bishop, and later, in memory of him, a monument to St. Gellert was built on the slopes. By the way, on the mountain you will find a memorial to Istvan himself, as well as the “Monument of Freedom”. The mountain is dotted with parks and adorned with a waterfall, but that's not all. Tourists all over the world climb observation deck Gellért Mountains to admire the beauty of the capital of Hungary from above. They say that from this place the view of Budapest is simply stunning. Try it too!

5. Ride the oldest metro on the continent and the longest tram on the planet

You may be surprised, but the first metro in Europe opened in Hungary. Moreover, the M1 yellow line stations in Budapest today look exactly the same as they did a hundred years ago, and at Deák tér you have the opportunity to look into the Hungarian Metropolitan Museum - the Millennium Underground. In addition, you will be amazed that in the capital's metro tickets are composted.

When it comes to trams, you will need routes no. 6 and no. 4 in Budapest, which reach a length of 54 meters, thereby making them world famous. By the way, these capital trams- not only the longest on the planet, but also the busiest, because tourists, trying to get in touch with the world history of transport, often use the services of hospitable fifty-year-old trailers. Driving along the picturesque banks of the Danube enhances the impression of the trip.

6. Enjoy real wine

First of all, try the local famous “Tokaj” - its taste is mind-blowing and makes even the most sophisticated winemakers from all over the planet ask for more. Why be surprised? Hungary is the mother of Tokaji wine! Where can you find this wine? Perhaps everywhere - all restaurant wine lists are decorated with this type of wine, all wine cellars and factories offer tasting and sale of “Tokay”. Other varieties of wines - Sopron, Villany and Eger - have also proven themselves excellent. The most colorful place for wine tasting is the legendary “Valley of Beauties” in the city of Eger, where more than 200 wine cellars are collected, offering tourists the best wines of Hungary and generously treating travelers with real goulash. Don’t forget about the local “Bull’s Blood”, which is actually equated to the elixir of courage, because after drinking this wine the soldiers defended Eger against the Turks, although the number of enemies was 40 times greater than the defenders.

7. Conquer the Danube by boat

The Danube River is the pride of the Hungarians, as well as the Volga for the Russians. In addition, this is rather an international pride, because the length of the river reaches almost 3000 km and flows or is considered the border of 10 countries, and the Danube drainage basin is present in 9 more countries. Agree, the river is a legend - you just want to come into contact with it! Tourists have access to regular voyages of local ships of varying comfort and exciting content. You can take a sightseeing evening excursion along the Danube, enjoying a glass of wine, or book a trip with a whole range of entertainment, including a banquet, live music, performances by artists and accompanying animators.

8. Rejuvenate at Lake Heviz

If Balaton is the largest in Europe freshwater lake, then Heviz is the largest warm-water. You can swim here at any time - even in the bitter cold, wrapped in delicate clouds of steam above the water. In Heviz, not only the water is healing, but also the multi-meter layer of silt at the bottom of the lake. They say that many people make pilgrimages here, trying to regain youth or stop old age. It should be noted that all visiting vacationers are invariably satisfied with the results and impressions of their holiday on Heviz, because it is incomparable with anything else. Under the lake there is such a powerful thermal spring that the water in Heviz changes every 28 hours, and the temperature never (even in winter) drops below +26-28°C. The lush vegetation in the form of the dazzling beauty of tropical lilies on the surface of Heviz adds the final note to the euphoria of being here.

9. Visit the Marzipan Museum

Marzipan is a sweet made from almonds and sugar, but in Hungary the production of this confectionery product was turned into an art form, constructing paintings, figures and other masterpieces from such simple ingredients. There are 5 Marzipan Museums open in Hungary - in Szentendre (the most famous), Budapest, Eger, Keszthely, Pecs. The exhibitions are dazzling, somewhat jewel-like creations. In the halls you can admire full-length figures of celebrities, for example, Michael Jackson, a map of Hungary, the capital's Parliament, characters from films and cartoons and other fascinating sweet exhibits. Each museum has a confectionery shop where you can enjoy the taste of marzipan and purchase your favorite items as gifts for loved ones upon returning home.

10. Visit the Polovtsian village of Holloko

Is it possible to visit the past? In Hungary - yes. The village of Hollokö (translated into Russian as Crow Stone) is a journey into the past, living a peaceful life measured life until today, despite the millions of prying eyes of tourists. The history of the village dates back to the 13th century; 67 local buildings are considered architectural monuments. Holloko is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is an ethnographic exhibition under open air living everyday village life. About 400 residents live here, conducting their usual business (wood carving, pottery production, embroidery, animal husbandry, gardening) under the public view of the guests of the settlement, which adds flavor to a visit to this ancient place.

Budapest at night is an unforgettable sight. Illumination immerses the city in a special medieval atmosphere. According to tourists, the most fascinating view of Budapest at night opens from the deck of a boat or a floating bus plying along the Danube. A scattering of artfully illuminated bridges, the outlines of majestic buildings, fresh air and soothing sound river water- all this immerses guests of the capital in an atmosphere of magical mood with a feeling of being in the medieval past.

12. Buy colorful local souvenirs

Few people know that Hungary is the birthplace of the Rubik's cube and the ballpoint pen. But these world-famous things were invented by local geniuses - the sculptor Rubik and the journalist Biro. Therefore, as a souvenir from Hungary, you can purchase an unusual wooden pen with painting or a puzzle in national packaging. In addition, Hungary is rich in porcelain, black ceramics, wooden souvenirs and hand-embroidered items. Also, do not forget about the local excellent wines, the miraculous balsam “Unicum”, mesmerizing marzipan and the national seasoning - paprika, which is sold both ground and crushed, and in the form of colorful clusters.

A separate topic is the rich flea markets of Budapest: a real treasure trove of historical monuments and antiques, where you can buy objects and jewelry that breathe antiquity.

Hungary is an interesting country with a colorful culture, picturesque beauty, healing natural gifts, fascinating history and a rich architectural heritage. The above tips will help you feel the country to its secret depths.

Hungary is undeservedly underestimated by tourists. Picturesque landscapes, authentic national cuisine, interesting story and facts, knowledge of which makes you look at the country from a different perspective.

Fact 1: The Metropolitan in Hungary is amazing on amazing

When talking about the metro in Hungary, they always mention the longest trams in the world with their length of 53.9 m. It is noteworthy that Budapest trams began operating on routes in 1896. At this time, there was no subway in Europe at all, and there were only two subways in the world - in London and New York.

The most famous in Budapest is route number 60. It is served by a modern tram, the interior of which has been recreated according to historical archives. Moreover, this tram, the only commercial (non-tourist) route in the world, goes up the mountain. Any tourist can ride on it for only 350 forints.

Fact 2: Hungarian Sea Balaton

Interestingly, in Hungary there is a sea that every resident of the country knows about. However, it is unlikely that an inquisitive tourist will be able to find it on the map. Hungarians call Lake Balaton the sea. The depth of the lake averages 3 meters, and reaches a maximum of 12.5 meters. 2% of the lake is covered with reeds, which are cut down for export in the fall.

In summer, the coastal zone of the lake becomes the main resort of the country. Basic resort town– Siófok, located on the southern coast. It got its name from the Shio River, which flows into the lake. There is another attraction in Siófok that will surprise Russian tourist: right on the shore there is an obelisk, donated by Russian residents to the Hungarians in 2012 in honor of the 6th World Congress of Finno-Ugric Peoples.

Fact 3: Rubik's Cube

In 1941, the creator of the Rubik's cube was born - a puzzle that almost every inhabitant of the civilized world tried to solve. In 1974, Enre Rubik presented his puzzle, and already in 1984 the first competitions in high-speed cube solving started. The author himself spent whole month to solve your own puzzle.

The Rubik's Cube has become so popular that the number of copies sold today exceeds 350 million pieces.

Fact 4: Vegetarians will have a hard time in Hungary

When Hungarians say “meat,” they always mean pork. The average Hungarian eats 0.5 kg of lard per week. Moreover, all dishes are fried not in vegetable oil, but in pork fat.

Hungarians are very fond of the pre-winter holiday “Pig Wake”. On this day, a master is invited to cut and butcher the pig. Women traditionally salt lard and prepare a festive table, the main dish of which is fried liver.

Fact 5. The ballpoint pen was invented in Hungary

At the end of the 1930s. The Biro brothers invented the ballpoint pen. During the period of Jewish pogroms, they were forced to emigrate to England, where they patented their invention, and then sold the rights to it to an English company. The brothers did not receive a single pound from sales, so they were forced to return and establish their own pen production, which was later sold to Marcel Bic.

Fact 6. Mount Gellert is a UNESCO heritage

Most beautiful view opens from Gellert Mountain, which is listed world heritage UNESCO. Thanks to the opening picturesque landscapes the mountain has become a place of pilgrimage for photographers. There are rumors that until 1848, witches gathered on the mountain for a Sabbath.

Fact 7. Budapest is the only resort capital in continental Europe

Tourists are accustomed to the fact that the country's capital is a concentration of business centers, active cultural and nightlife. Budapest is famous for its thermal springs located at a depth of 1 kilometer big amount medicinal baths.

Fact 8. Budapest is two cities

Until 1873, modern Budapest did not exist, and in its place were located two independent cities Buda and Pest. Buda was located on a hilly part of the Danube bank, and Pest was on a flatter part. It is symbolic that today both parts are united not only by the name of the city, but also by many bridges.

Fact 9. Hungarian is one of the most difficult languages ​​in Europe

Foreign tourist, most likely, will fail if he tries to communicate with a Hungarian in his dialect. The Finno-Ugric language group, which the language belongs to, is rightfully considered one of the most difficult to learn.

Fact 10. In 1944–1946, Hungary experienced the largest currency collapse in the country’s history

The current Hungarian currency, the forint, was introduced into circulation only in 1946 as a means of combating galloping inflation, which reached 400% per day. At that moment, any resident could become a millionaire. The largest banknote, 1 quadrillion, was also issued in 1946.

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With every new trip to Hungary we discover this amazing country, its customs, culture, cuisine, history and modern way of life. In this article we will tell you what Hungary is famous for and share our tourist and gastronomic discoveries. So, 25 interesting facts about Hungary.

• Hungary is a country with a thousand-year history. It was founded in 896 not at all “ local population”, and by the tribes of the Magyars who came with Ural mountains.

7 tribes were led by Prince Arpad. He conquered new lands on the Danube and became the founder of the dynasty of Hungarian kings. This is how the Hungarians found their homeland. The holiday of finding the Motherland is considered one of the most important national holidays Hungary. The country loves and honors its heroes. In Heroes' Square in 1896, in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarians' acquisition of their Motherland, a column and large monuments were erected to the seven leaders of the Magyar tribes, who crossed the Carpathians from the Ural Mountains a thousand years ago.

• Hungarian is one of the most difficult languages for study in the world and completely incomprehensible for a tourist.

The language of communication is the first thing an independent traveler encounters in a foreign country. The Hungarian language belongs to the Ugric group and the Finno-Ugric family of languages. It is close to the languages ​​of the peoples of the East, southern Urals And Western Siberia: Khanty, Mansi, Komi, Udmurt, Mordovian.

In Hungary, at the entrance to a store, cafe, restaurant, museum, etc. It is customary to say hello and goodbye. Therefore, learning a couple of words in Hungarian will be useful))

Jó reggelt kívánok (Yo reggelt kivaanok) - good morning
Jó napot kívánok (Yo napot kivaanok) - good afternoon
Jó estét kívánok (Yo estéet kivaanok) - good evening
Szia (Sia - to one), Sziasztok (Siastok - to many) - hello, bye.
Viszontlátásra (Visontlatashra) - goodbye
Köszönöm (Kösönöm) - thank you
Köszönöm szepen (Kösönöm sipen) - Thank you very much
Bocsánat (Bochanat) - sorry
Jó étvágyat (Yo itvadyot) - bon appetit
Jó éjszakát (Yo ijsokat) - good night
Igen (igen) - yes
nem (nem) - no
Bejárat (beyarat) – entrance
Kijárat (kiyarat) – exit
Jó (Yo) – good
Jóbb (Job) – very good

But our word “Pool” has an indecent meaning in the Hungarian language, so when visiting beaches and baths, replace it with the word “Water” or “medence” (which means “pool” in Hungarian). We gave our children instructions on this word, but still, in the rush of pleasure from swimming, they forgot about the “replacement” and shouted phrases like this with all their might: “Let’s swim in the pool with waves,” which caused the violent indignation of the Hungarian old ladies))

• IN tourist places understand English and German. Moreover, German is used much more often. Older people can speak Russian.

When we were on holiday at Balaton, the staff in the local cafe spoke only Hungarian or German languages, the signs “rooms for rent” are also written in German.

• Hungary – famous country- resort.

Hungary is " hot key Europe". There are more than 500 unique hot thermal springs. Since the beginning of the 20th century, Budapest has been considered the International Capital of Medical Bathing. Hungarians say with a smile and pride that a spring with hot thermal water will flow from underground, even if you just stick a stick into it.

A visit to a thermal bath in Hungary is a must-have for every traveler. And our rating of the best baths in Budapest will help you decide which baths to choose.

The trip to the cave was unforgettable for us. th Bath of Miskolc-Tapolca.

This bath is unique in that it was created in real caves and is considered the only one in Europe. For many thousands of years, thermal waters washed away the grottoes, walls and vaults of the cave. Read our review of the bath here:

Resort town Eger is a wonderful opportunity to combine wellness, gastronomic and tourist holiday. Nearby, in Egerszalok, there is the “Hungarian Pamukalle” - a salt hill and thermal water with a unique composition.

Read more about our trip in this article:

• People don't swim in the Danube in summer.

The Danube is considered a very dirty river, not suitable for swimming. In Budapest, for example, there is not a single city beach with access to the Danube. But there are many beaches with swimming pools, water slides, as well as thermal baths with outdoor pools. Our review of Romai Furdo beach:

• Balaton is one of the most large lakes Europe. But at the same time it is very small.

It stretches 80 km in length and has a width at its narrowest point - a little more than 1 km, and at its widest - 12.4 km. “The Hungarian Sea” – this is what Hungarians proudly say about Lake Balaton. Honestly, “sea” is just a name)) In fact, average depth lakes - only 3.5 m, the maximum - near the Tihany Peninsula - 12.5 m. The Slavs in the 9th century called it “swamp”. South coast Balaton is smaller than the northern one.

Balaton – popular resort Hungary has many thermal springs. The lake water is also good for health. It is not transparent, slightly cloudy. The reason for this is healing silt and the presence of plankton in the water. It warms up quickly in the sun. For adults to swim, they have to walk 500 meters to the depth, or even more. Therefore, Balaton is a wonderful place to relax with children. And what color of water! Blue-green, turquoise - shades change under the sun's rays. That's very beautiful!

On the Tihany Peninsula there is a monument to the Hungarian king Andras I and his wife, the Ukrainian princess Anastasia, daughter of Yaroslav the Wise.

Read more about our holiday at Lake Balaton here:

• Heviz is the largest thermal lake in Europe.

A few kilometers from Lake Balaton – famous lake Heviz. It, like Lake Balaton, is the national pride of Hungary. And this is not just a lake with healing water, but a lake in the crater of an extinct volcano. The depth of Heviz is more than 40 m. The water in the lake is warm at any time of the year, but you won’t be able to swim here for a long time - the effect on the body is too strong. There is a time limit for adults. Swimming in Heviz is not recommended for children under 16 years of age.

The charm of the lake is given by pink and lilac lotus flowers on the surface. They were brought over 100 years ago from India. And miraculously, these plants took root in hot water.

Heviz is called the lake of youth. Hungarians say “don’t flirt with a girl coming out of Heviz, because it could be your grandmother”)))

Our gastronomic discoveries.

• Hungarian cuisine can be very peppery and spicy.

Hungarian cuisine is replete with dishes with meat, vegetables, paprika, hot pepper, various spices and seasonings.

• In Hungarian stores you will not find the usual buckwheat, herring, or caviar.

Buckwheat is considered bird food and is sold in pet stores, and herring is, according to the Hungarians, “dead” fish.

• “Goulash” is a rich soup made from meat and vegetables.

The first surprise in Hungarian cuisine for us was goulash. We are accustomed to the standard of our canteens, according to which goulash is a meat sauce for a side dish. It turns out that in Hungary it is a very tasty thick soup with meat, vegetables and paprika. And the Hungarians call it “Guyash”. It was once considered a shepherd's dish. Guyash is often prepared by men, because it is easy to prepare. Bean-guyash with beans and smoked meats is also very tasty. Guyash on a fire is called Bograch. The word “bograch” is translated from Hungarian as “cauldron”, “cauldron”.

• In Hungary, a special breed of curly-haired Mangalica pigs is raised.

Hungarians eat a lot of pork and know how to cook excellent lard with spices and herbs. It just melts in your mouth))) The meat and lard of the special Hungarian breed “Mangalitsa” is unique in that it does not contain cholesterol.

• Marzipan is a very popular sweet in Hungary.

Hungary is a country that, along with France, Italy, Germany and Estonia, claims to be the birthplace of marzipan. There are several Marzipan Museums in Hungary - in Szentedra, Eger, Pecs, Keszthely and Budapest. Sweetness reigns at the Marzipan Museum fairy tale. What masters don’t do with this product!

We wrote about our visit to the Marzipan Museum in Sendendre here:

Alcoholic drinks in Hungary.

• Hungary is a wine-producing country.

Many people have heard about Hungarian wines. The famous Tokaj wines and sweet wine Assu are considered one of the best dessert white wines in Europe. The Tokaji Aszu bottle says "Vinum Regum, Rex Vinorum!", which means "This is the wine of kings, and the king of wines." This is how the French king Louis XIV once appreciated this legendary wine.

• Our discovery among the national drinks of Hungary was Unicum.

Unicum is an original balm infused at 40 medicinal herbs. It has been produced by Zwack for over 200 years. It was invented by court physician Joseph Zwack in 1790 for Emperor Joseph II as a means to improve stomach function. “Das ist ein Unikum!” “- the emperor exclaimed when he tried this balm. So the drink remained in history. The recipe for this bitter liqueur still remains a secret of the Zwack family. In order not to reveal the secret, they deliberately purchase more types of herbs than are actually needed.

To be honest, at first we didn’t like the unique one. Having tried it for the first time, we did not appreciate its slightly bitter herbal taste. But now Unicum is one of our favorite Hungarian drinks. We will definitely bring a bottle of balm home along with warm memories.

• Palinka is a Hungarian fruit vodka.

This is the national brand of Hungary. It is distilled from a variety of fruits - apples, apricots, plums, pears, grapes. Interestingly, home brewing is prohibited in Hungary. Therefore, law-abiding citizens take fruit to special factories to make homemade palinka. It is very soft and fragrant.

Interesting facts about Hungary. Famous inventions.

• Rubik's Cube– one of the most popular toys for children and adults. The puzzle cube was “born” in Hungary in 1974 and named after the inventor, sculptor, architect Professor Ernő Rubik. The Rubik's cube solving championship has been taking place in Budapest for over 30 years. A world record was set here - 7 seconds.

• The first ballpoint pens were created in Hungary in the 30s of the 20th century by the Biro brothers and they were called biroms.

• Hologram was invented in 1948 by the Hungarian physicist Dennis Gabor, for which the scientist received the Nobel Prize.

• Hungary is the birthplace of the famous hussars.

It was here that hussar troops appeared for the first time in the world. Hussars are lightly armed warriors on horseback. In the 15th century, King Matthias Corvinus ordered every twentieth “conscript” to be sent to cavalry units. The fame of victories in battle, courage and skill of the Hungarian hussars quickly spread throughout Europe. Soon the name “hussars” appeared in Poland, Prussia, Lithuania, and Russia. Russia borrowed from the hussars not only the name, but also the uniform.

How we went to horse show with the participation of the brave hussars read here:

• Buses we know Ikarus also from Budapest. The company that produces them was founded in the capital of Hungary in 1895 as a carriage workshop.

• In Budapest, the first metro in continental Europe and the third in the world was built. This event took place in 1896, more than 100 years ago, in honor of the Finding of the Motherland. The first “yellow” metro line has been preserved to this day and is actively used. It is very interesting to ride in small vintage subway carriages and visit the subway museum.

Find out about the ancient metro and the Metro Museum here:

• In Budapest you can take a ride on another original attraction. Routes No. 4 and No. 6 go the longest tram in Europe. Its length without 10 cm is 54 m.

• The numbering of trolleybus routes in Budapest starts with the number 70. There are no routes numbered 1 to 69. Budapest owes this to its socialist past. In 1949, the first trolleybus appeared in the capital of Hungary. He was given the route number 70, in honor of Stalin's 70th birthday

• An amphibious tourist bus is an original way to explore Budapest. This miracle bus not only travels along the roads with the sights of Budapest, but also floats along the Danube. It turns out to be a very unusual and exciting excursion.

To conclude our selection of interesting facts about Hungary, here is another important tourist discovery.

Hungarians are very careful about their history and culture, Kings, political, cultural and artistic figures are revered as national heroes. Many streets, squares, cathedrals are named after the heroes of Hungary. Hungarians treat architectural monuments with trepidation. Even in the ruins of ancient temples, castles, and fortresses, museums are set up, festivals, concerts, and theatrical performances are held.

An interesting fact - in Budapest in 1933, an exact copy of the unique 13th century Zsambek Basilica, destroyed by the earthquake of 1763, was built on Lehel tér Square. So, if you wish, you can see what the basilica looked like back in the 12th century.

Copy in Budapest.

In fact, you can write a lot about Hungary. Each of our visits brings new discoveries, tourist, cultural, gastronomic. Hungary is a very interesting country! It’s worth coming here, especially since it’s very close)))

How to get to Hungary:

• Travelers by car to Hungary our article will be useful:

• Find the cheapest flight to Budapest you can here. We recommend low-cost airline Wizzair.

Where to stay. Housing in Hungary.

• Hotels in Hungary.

We wish you new travels and bright discoveries!

The article was written with love and boundless gratitude to our dear Lyudmila and Alexey Yamkovenko.

There are subway stations, parks, buildings and bridges named after them, but often you wonder: who are all these people?
I present to you such names as István Széchenyi, St. Stephen, Queen Erzsebet and Ferenc Deák. I will tell you about politicians, poets and kings of one of the most interesting countries in Europe (and for me – the world).
So:

• Saint Stephen

Where you can see this name: St. Stephen's Basilica, St. Stephen's Boulevard (from Margaret Bridge to West Station).

The analogue of the name Istvan is Stefan, so in the English versions of the names you will see Saint Stephen. The first Hungarian king from the Arpad dynasty united the scattered Hungarian tribes and removed all rivals to the throne. Istvan realized that the development of Hungary as a state was only possible in conjunction with the church, so the path of Christianization of the Hungarian land and getting rid of paganism was chosen. They say that Christianization was forced in places, but this event so involved Hungary in world European history that now there is nothing to talk about. The Hungarians say that despite the baptism of the people, for a long time they remained adherents of paganism and quietly prayed to their gods at home. On a rectangular slab, the Pope gives Stephen a crown for Christmas in the year 1000. The crown, as a symbol of receiving power from God, gave Istvan the right to change the structure of the country in a Christian way: instead of the right to succession to the throne based on seniority in the family, the firstborn (the first of the children) received the right. Istvan declared the city of Esztergom the center of the Hungarian religion, participated in the founding of the first monastery in Hungary - in the city of Pannonhalma (996) and made the city a royal center.

• Saint Gellert

Where you can see this name: Gellert Mountain, Gellert Hotel, Gellert Bathhouse.

An Italian Benedictine monk from Venice, making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, met King Stephen and remained in Hungary. After the death of the king, the pagans planned an uprising and the return of the country to its former religion. They took up arms against the monk and in 1046 lowered him in a barrel of nails from the mountain that now bears his name.

• Matthias Hunyadi

Where you can see this name: Matthias Church next to Fisherman's Bastion, on the 1000 forint note, Corvinian Library and Corvinus University.

Matthias Corvinus was King of Hungary from 1458 to 1490. In those days, he turned Hungary into a strong, wealthy and developed country. Matthias became one of the first kings of Hungary, who was chosen by the people (this is far from democracy, they were chosen by the upper classes of Hungary). Together with his wife, they decided to raise the prestige of the country in the eyes of European dynasties and they succeeded. Powerful construction projects began (the palace in Visegrád, for example), avenues for architectural implementation opened up, and Hungary was transformed. This time was later called the era of the Hungarian Renaissance.

• Ferenc Deak

Where you can see this name: Deák Ferenc Square, main metro station, 20,000 forint note.

Deák Ferenc was a statesman and minister of justice in the mid-19th century, a difficult revolutionary period for all of Europe and for Hungary in particular. Considered one of the most respected politicians in Hungarian history. Legend has it that during one trip, robbers robbed Ferenc at a party, but immediately returned everything as soon as they found out who they had robbed. He was involved in the anti-Habsburg revolution of 1848-1849 for the independence of Hungary from Austria, but as a supporter of peaceful reforms and an opponent of violence, his negotiations to find a compromise were not always successful, but in the eventual deal between the Habsburgs and Hungary, Deák Ferenc had a serious role, which led to popular recognition in 1867.

• Istvan Széchenyi

Where you can see this name: Chain Bridge Szechenyi Baths, 5000 forint note.

Count Istvan Széchenyi was a famous political figure. In his youth he traveled a lot, but injustice towards his homeland forced him to return to Hungary. Upon arrival, he became involved in politics and various projects for the development of Budapest. He is called “The Greatest Hungarian” because his role in resolving many issues remains important today. For example, he organized the creation of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and sponsored the construction of the 1st bridge, which connected 2 cities: Buda and Pest. The Golden Bull (a set of laws of the Hungarians since 1222) secured the family’s rights to land; it was passed “from father to son” and could not be sold. An interesting moment in the history of Hungary is connected with this moment, namely, the thoughts of István Széchenyi about the construction of the 1st bridge in Budapest. István Széchenyi came to a bank in Vienna and asked for a loan, to which he was asked what he could leave as collateral. He replied that he could leave the documents for the land. In Vienna they laughed, remembered the Golden Bull and did not give Istvan the impossibility of reselling the land and money.

His father, Count Ferenc Széchenyi participated in the creation of the Hungarian National Museum and, of course, the National Library. Széchenyi.
During the revolution of 1848, Szechenyi received the post of Minister of Transport and Social Affairs, but after the failure with the Habsburgs he left the government and withdrew from political affairs. Despite his patriotism and desire to develop Hungary, Istvan suffered from manic-depressive disorder all his life and eventually committed suicide in Austria in a psychiatric clinic.

• Lajos Kossuth

Where you can see this name: Kossuth Square near the Parliament building, a statue in a row of columns in Heroes' Square.

Lajos Kossuth - politician, lawyer, prime minister and regent president of Hungary during the revolution of 1848. Key figure in winning freedom from Austria and gaining independence for Hungary. After the failure in the revolution, he fled the country in women's dress, fearing execution. Later he lived in England, Italy and the USA, but continued to fight for the independence of Hungary.
My personal opinion about the chauvinistic views of Lajos Kossuth and the unshakable love of the Hungarians for him is this: he appeared at the right time for the country and raised a wave of Hungarian nationalism (and after the events of that time in France, there was such a person in every country in Europe). Despite budget restrictions and the meager presence of industry in the country, he collected short time army, was in charge of finances, negotiated with England and France, protesting against Russian interference. Honor and praise, despite the outcome of events.

• Lajos Batthyany

Where you can see this name: Batthyany Square on the Buda side opposite the Parliament, metro stop on the M2 line.

Lajos Batthyany was the first Prime Minister of Hungary and it was he who was “at the helm” in the revolution of 1848. He found himself between two fires during his reign and the management of Hungary: between loyalty to Austria and between supporters of radical reforms and independence of Hungary. Despite his liberal sentiments, he chose the side of the radicals and led the people to battle against the Habsburgs, where he was wounded and captured. Before his execution, he tried to commit suicide, but it didn’t work out and in the end he was shot in the square that now bears his name. Before the execution, he got down on one knee and shouted: “Live my country! Come on, hunters!”

• Sandor Petőfi

Where you can see this name: Petőfi Bridge.

A key figure, yes, all in the same revolution of 1848. Considered the first Hungarian national poet, he regularly met with like-minded people in the Pilvax cafe and now this cafe is still open and bears the name of Sándor Petőfi. He died in the last battle for Hungarian independence and his body was never found. His most famous “National Song” is the anthem of the movement against the Habsburgs:

“Get up Magyars, the fatherland is calling!
Choose before it's too late:
Coming to terms with a slave's lot
Or be free?
Let us swear to the God of the Hungarians -
Forever!
Never be slaves
Never!..".

• Gyula Andrássy

Where you can see this name: the famous Andrássy Avenue, which starts at Erzsébet Square and ends at Heroes' Square.

This large and elegant avenue bears the name of the first Prime Minister of Hungary as part of the dualism: Austria-Hungary - Count Gyula Andrássy, who led the country in the period 1867-1871 and whose main services lie in the development of Hungary in the post-revolutionary period.

• Queen Erzsebet

Where you can see this name: Erzsebet Bridge and Erzsebet Square (with Ferris ring), observation tower on Mount Janos.

Erzsebet is a Bavarian princess, second cousin of the Emperor of Austria-Hungary, Franz Joseph, and his wife since 1854. Her life is characterized by the Austrians as a "disdain" for etiquette and the Habsburgs, but for the Hungarians she was a real queen. Erzsebet loved Hungary, studied the Hungarian language and pursued a policy of helping this country. Thanks to her, after the failure in the revolution of 1848, Austria-Hungary became a dualistic country. What did dualism give to Hungary? Greater freedom of action regarding internal device Hungary, constitutional law. The capitals in the era of dualism were Vienna and Budapest, respectively. The life story of Erzsebet or Sissi, as the Hungarians called her, is quite sad. Being in constant quarrels with her mother-in-law, not seeing her husband Emperor Franz Joseph, and being deprived of the opportunity to spend time and raise children, Erzsebet found peace in traveling around the world. After the death of Crown Prince Rudolf, her only son, Sissi was never able to recover from this loss and stopped caring about her safety and in Geneva she died at the hands of an Italian anarchist. She was killed by Italian anarchists in 1898.

• Franz Liszt

Where you can see this name: airport. Franz Liszt, Franz Liszt Square next to the Opera metro station, Music Academy named after. Franz Liszt.

Of course, I left the most interesting and dear to me for last. Franz Liszt was born at the beginning of the 19th century in Hungary near the city of Sopron. Virtuoso pianist, conductor, composer, publicist, creator of the instrumental genre of rhapsody. He began performing at the age of 8, was kissed by Beethoven during one of his concerts, moved to Paris, began composing at the age of 14, went into depression, returned 3 years later, began composing revolutionary symphonies, Chopin was jealous of him and his virtuosity in performance, met his wife Countess Marie d'Agoux, fell in love and ran away to Switzerland together. In 1838, there was a big flood in Budapest and Liszt, feeling strong patriotism in his soul, left his wife and went to his homeland to help his compatriots. Here, at home in Hungary, he became an exponent of the nation's patriotic upsurge. Ferenc gave a series of charity concerts, but then went on tour again to Europe (and even Russia). In 1848, having taken another woman from the family, he returned to hometown. Here he was disappointed in his educational activities, but at the same time, the peak of his composition came, he completed all the works and brought to mind all the rhapsodies. After long periods of depression, he and his wife went to Rome to atone for their sins, Ferenc took monastic vows and began to introduce spiritual motives into his writings. In 1875, he returned to Hungary again, where he became president of the Higher School of Music and focused on teaching. Ferenc gave his last concert in 1886 and died 2 weeks later.

And now the most interesting thing from his life: being born in Hungary, he never learned the Hungarian language and never spoke it; was a member of the Masonic lodge in Frankfurt; Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary elevated Franz Liszt to knighthood; his work Liebestraum No. 3 was used for a long time as the standard ringtone in Nokia phones; Ferenc had a long hand that could cover almost two octaves. All in all, this is the incredible life of one incredible Hungarian.

Come to Budapest!

P.S.S. And the second part is about famous Hungarians of the 20th century.