If you choose the oldest city in Hungary, Veszprem will take first place. According to legend, it was founded by the Franks, and the first mention of it dates back to the ninth century. During its existence, it has become a focus of historical events and places, Veszprem in Hungary and attractions are included in the mandatory tourist program.
The city is located 15 km from Lake Balaton and 115 km from Budapest. A railway line passes through it, trains move to the stations of Szekesfehervar, Szombathely, Budapest. Travel time to the capital of Hungary is 2 hours.
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Fire tower
It is located in the city center, no longer fulfills its functions, it is a local landmark. At the top there is an observation deck, which offers a picturesque view of the center of the old city. A spiral staircase leads to it. Above is the main attraction of Veszprem – a clock that every hour plays the melody of the composer Antal Cermak. He is popular in Hungary, is the author of classical works.
Interesting historical facts about the fire tower:
- Construction began in the XIII century, the initiator of the project is the fourth king of Bela.
- Initially, it was an observation tower and was part of the fortifications.
- The building was completely destroyed in 1801 as a result of an earthquake.
- The tower was restored in the middle of the 19th century at the expense of the nobility of the city, the author of the new project was Henrik Tumler.
- Next to the tower is the building of the fire station, which is called the “House of the Fire Hose”.
This Veszprem attraction is popular with locals, solo travelers and vacationers. There are cafes, restaurants, entertainment events are held on the square.
Sümeg Fortress
It was built at the same time as the Fire Tower. The height of the fortification is 270 m. The construction began on the order of the episcopate of the city. This is the only fortification in Hungary that has withstood all the sieges. So, during the war with Turkey, the bishop of Veszprem and his entourage hid here. However, in the 18th century, on the orders of the Habsburgs, all the fortresses of the country were destroyed. Veszprem, Hungary, the attraction was restored only by the end of the 20th century.
Interesting Sümeg Fortress Facts:
- The road to it is steep, paved with bricks and stones.
- Inside, exhibitions and performances on historical topics are organized. There is a good collection of medieval weapons.
- Knightly tournaments are held annually.
- Here they give theater performances. Petofi.
Another attraction of Veszprem is an open-air exhibition of carriages and carriages. It is located in the courtyard of the fortress. Performances take place in the large knight’s hall.
Bishop’s Palace
This building was the main residence of the bishops of Hungary. The palace is located on the Holy Trinity Square, on the highest point of the city – the Fortress Hill. The construction project was developed by the architect Felner, the customer was Bishop Ignaz Koller. White marble was used for the construction, there are many figurines of angels on the facade. They serve as a stand for flowers hanging from a large vase.
Unusual architecture of the rear part of the palace. This landmark of Veszprem in Hungary hangs over a slope. This gives lightness and extraordinary picturesqueness.
What you need to know about the Bishop’s Palace:
- There is a large library here.
- The decoration of the palace is solemn, there is antique furniture, paintings on the walls and ceiling.
- The repository of valuable historical papers is the property of the Hungarian people.
There are no tours inside the palace. But tourists can explore the surrounding area, take a walk in a small park. After issuing a permit, there will be access to the archiepiscopal archive and library.
Fortress quarter
Fortifications in the city were erected in the 10th century. After 6 centuries, a palace was built, which is under the protection of the walls. But it was destroyed by the Turks during the war. The Fire Tower is located in this area. The attraction of Veszprem is the fortress gate. They were refurbished in 1936 and named after the fallen heroes of the First World War.
Tourists can visit the modern art gallery. It is located opposite the building of the Order of Piarists. On the altar of the church there is a painting of St. Emeric. He was the son of the ruling dynasty of Hungary – King Stephen and his wife Gisella. Behind the square of the Holy Trinity is the episcopal palace – the soma monumental building of the city. White marble was used for its construction.
In the chapel Gisella has a series of frescoes from the 13th century that are well preserved.
The Cathedral of St. Michael is the most monumental building of the complex. Here are stored the personal belongings of the Queen of Hungary, her relics. She is considered the patroness of Christians, she is respected and revered as a local saint. There is also a monastery and a small church.
On the observation deck you can look at the city panorama. The sculptural composition of King Stephen and his wife was made by contemporaries. This time of the reign of the dynasty is considered fundamental in the formation of the statehood of Hungary.
Museum of Local Lore
Tourists should visit the city museum of Veszprém in Hungary, a landmark where the values and relics of the city are collected. Artifacts from the shores of Lake Balaton are presented here. They will help to imagine being the peoples and people inhabiting these places. The exposition includes household items, tools, clothes, shoes.
The building of the local history museum was built in 1922. The famous architect I. Medyasi was engaged in the project. Useful facts about the museum:
- Some of the exhibits are a gift from the monastery.
- There is an exposition dedicated to the Celtic people who lived on the coast of Lake Balaton.
- Location – st. Vár utca, old town.
Museum hours are from 9:00 to 18:00. Frequent exhibitions of local and international artists. They organize meetings with creative people of Hungary.
Ruins of Margaret
The history of Veszprem and its attractions is inextricably linked with the ruling dynasties of Hungary. These monuments include the Margaret Ruins. They are located in the valley, not far from the city. Now there are many small houses of local residents. Among them are the remains of an ancient monastery.
The daughter of King Bela the Fourth, Margaret, was brought up within its walls. The girl remained in the upbringing obedience of the monastery until she reached the age of 10 years. Then the young princess left the monastery. The female Dominican monastery of St. Catherine was destroyed by the Turks as a result of hostilities. Contemporaries can see only part of the walls and a well-preserved basement.