Famous personalities of Hungary. ​50 interesting facts about Hungary

For Hungarians, goulash is the crown national food, and depending on the density and ingredients, this dish can be either the first or the second course. The soup is called “Gulyas leves” and is a fragrant stew with a fair amount of melt-in-your-mouth meat, topped with dumplings (balls of dough), flavored with spices and paprika, and served with a slice of wheat bread freshly removed from the oven. The form of serving adds color to an unusual and hearty dish - waiters often bring goulash soup in beautiful clay pots. In addition, the national cuisine 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, for the preparation of 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 and vegetarians did not ignore them, inventing something special for them - "Gomba porkolt" - mushroom goulash.

3. Relax at Lake Balaton

Balaton is rightly called the "Hungarian Sea", because millions of vacationers come here as an alternative to sea tours. Due to the mild climate, the abundance of adjacent forests and warm water, a vacation at Balaton is a real sunny paradise for fans of beach pastime. In addition to traditional entertainment on the lake, you can go in for water sports (sailing and surfing), as well as take part in equestrian competitions, go fishing or admire the local wild "inhabitants" - herons, geese and swans. The beach season at Balaton begins with the onset May days and ends in autumn. However, the winter lake also captivates the eye with its splendor, hiding behind 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 sights 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 - Istvan, 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 from all over the world climb the observation deck of Mount Gellert in order to admire the beauties of the Hungarian capital from above. They say that it is from this place that the view of Budapest opens up simply amazing. 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 stations of the yellow line "M1" in Budapest today look exactly the same as a hundred years ago, and on "Deák tér" you have the opportunity to look into the Hungarian Metropolitan Museum - "Millennium Underground". In addition, you will be amazed that tickets are punched in the metropolitan metro.

As for the trams, you will need lines 6 and 4 in Budapest, which are up to 54 meters long, thus making them world famous. By the way, these metropolitan trams are 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. Movement along the picturesque banks of the Danube enhance the impression of the trip.

6. Enjoy real wine

First of all, try the local famous "Tokay" - its taste is breathtaking and makes even the most sophisticated winemakers from all over the planet ask for more. Why be surprised? Hungary is the mother of Tokay wine! Where can you find this wine? Perhaps everywhere - all the wine lists of restaurants are decorated with this type of wine, all wine cellars and factories offer tasting and sale of "Tokay". Other varieties of wines - Sopron, Villan and Eger - have proven themselves excellently. 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. Do not 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 before the Turks, although the number of enemies was 40 times greater than the defenders.

7. Conquer the Danube on a boat

The Danube River is the pride of the Hungarians, as well as the Volga for the Russians. In addition, it 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 states. Agree, the river is a legend - you just want to get in touch with it! It offers tourists regular flights of local ships of different comfort and exciting content. You can take an evening sightseeing tour of the Danube while enjoying a glass of wine, or book a trip with a whole entertainment complex, including a banquet, live music, performances by artists and 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 a fierce cold, wrapped in openwork clouds of steam above the water. In Heviz, not only water is healing, but also a multi-meter layer of silt at the bottom of the lake. It is said 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 result and impressions of a holiday on Heviz, because this is incomparable with anything. There is such a powerful thermal spring under the lake that the water in Heviz changes every 28 hours, and the temperature never (even in winter) drops below +26-28°C. Rough vegetation in the form of the dazzling beauty of tropical lilies on the surface of Heviz brings 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 was turned into an art form, constructing paintings, figures and other masterpieces from such simple components. There are 5 Marzipan Museums in Hungary - in Szentendre (the most famous), Budapest, Eger, Keszthely, Pecs. The expositions are dazzling, to some extent jewelry work of creation. In the halls, you can admire full-length figures of celebrities, for example, Michael Jackson, a map of Hungary, the capital's Parliament, film and cartoon characters and other fascinating sweet exhibits. Each museum has a confectionery shop where you can enjoy the taste of marzipans and buy your favorite items for gifts to loved ones upon returning home.

10. Visit the Polovtsian village of Holloko

Can you visit the past? In Hungary, yes. The village of Hollokyo (translated into Russian as the Raven Stone) is a journey into the past, living a calm measured life until today, despite millions of prying eyes of tourists. The history of the village goes back to the 13th century, 67 local buildings are considered architectural monuments. Holloko is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is an open-air ethnographic exposition, living the daily village life. About 400 residents live here, doing their usual business (woodcarving, pottery, embroidery, animal husbandry, work in the garden and garden) under the general observation of the guests of the settlement, which adds color to visiting this ancient place.

Night Budapest is an unforgettable sight. Illumination immerses the city in a special atmosphere of the Middle Ages. According to tourists, the most fascinating view of Budapest at night opens from the deck of a boat or a floating bus plying the Danube. A scattering of skillfully illuminated bridges, the outlines of majestic buildings, fresh air and the soothing sound of river water - all this plunges the guests of the capital into 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 ballpoint pen. But these world-famous things were invented by local nuggets - the sculptor Rubik and the journalist Biro. Therefore, in the form of a souvenir from Hungary, you can buy an unusual wooden handle with a 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 Unicum balm, marzipans that captivate the eye and the national spice - paprika, which is sold both ground and crushed, and in the form of colorful clusters.

A separate topic is the saturated flea markets of Budapest: a real storehouse of historical monuments and antiques, where you can buy objects and decorations that breathe antiquity.

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

Hungary - uh it is a beautiful European country full of surprises, rich in history and culture. Hungary is located in Central Europe and borders on many countries. The capital of the country, Budapest, is located in the Carpathian Basin and is divided into two parts by the Danube River. The Hungarian flag has three horizontal stripes: red, white and green. In terms of tourism, Hungary compares favorably with most countries in the world: here low level crime, the absence of terrorism, drug addiction, safe food and water, and a generally stable political climate.

What is the uniqueness of Hungarian culture? Hungarian culture changes depending on where you are, many of these traditions are linked to their folk heritage: arts and crafts, crafts, music and dance. Classical music has a very strong influence in Hungary.

You can make your trip to Hungary more interesting if you choose with Russian guides. Holidays in Hungary can be one of the best adventures of your life, especially if you know a little more about the country.

• Hungary is one of the fifteen most populartourist destinations in the world, attracting more than 10 million tourists a year.
• Hungary is one of the oldest countries in Europe. It was founded in 896, before France and Germany became separate countries. In the period around the year 1000, the Kingdom of Hungary was one of the largest states in Europe, larger than France. Hungary later became one of the two "heads of the eagle" of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
• Lake Balaton is a freshwater lake in Hungary and the most big lake in Central Europe. For Hungary, this is one of the most important tourist destinations (domestic and international tourism).
• There are about 500 natural springs of thermal water in Hungary.This means that you can find water with temperatures above 30°C in 70% of Hungary.There are about 150 spas in the country where you can bathe in these natural baths.
• The main national reserve national park Hortobágy. The main attraction of the park is the Nine Arch Bridge. It is the longest in Hungary, its length is as much as 167 meters!
• The country has one of the highest per capita numbers of Nobel laureates. Hungarians have won Nobel Prizes in every category except the world category.
• The Hungarians also invented many things, such as the ballpoint pen and the Rubik's Cube. Erne Rubik (creator)originally called the pear the Magic Cube.Hint: The color of the side is determined by the color of the center die.
• The world-famous goulash dish in Hungary looks completely different from what you are used to. HungarianGulyás is a soup. Although another statement is also true, the real Hungarian goulash has as many varieties as there are chefs in the country.
• Paprika plays a key role in many Hungarian dishes. It is the main spice in Hungarian cuisine. Powdered peppers are used to spice up almost every dish - especially goulash.
• Another pride of Hungary is Tokaji wine. It is so good that Louis XIV called it "The wine of kings, the king of wines". The most expensive variety is Essencia.
• Equestrian traditions are highly revered. There are many places throughout the country where you can take riding lessons.
• Hungarians love sports and are proud that the country has a high number of Olympic medals per capita. They perform especially well in fencing, swimming, gymnastics, and especially in water polo.
• Porcelain factory Herend (Herendi) - world famous, it is a product that does honor to the whole country. It is used (used) by Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, the Rothschild family, Prince Charles of Wales, Lady Diana, Pope Benedict XVI and many other equally famous people.
• Hungary has the highest standard VAT rate in the world (27%).
• Freedom Bridge , also called the Franz Josef Bridge. It is a very popular spot with tourists and photographers due to its rich decoration and fabulous green lighting at night. The bridge was built in 1896 and renewed in 2007.
• Medical tourism is very developed in this country, because there is a very high level of medicine and especially dentistry. Medical education here is one of the highest quality in the world.
• After London, Budapest has the oldest underground railway in Europe.The line was opened in 1896, when Hungary celebrated its 1000th anniversary.
• The capital of Hungary is one of the most cultural cities in the world. There are more than 40 theaters and over 100 museums and galleries in this city. Many concerts, festivals and events are held throughout the year, not to mention concerts in the famousopera house, which is considered one of the best opera houses in the world.

Subway stations, parks, buildings, and bridges are named after them, but you often wonder: who are these people?
I present to you such names as Istvan Szechenyi, St. Stephen, Queen Erzsebet and Ferenc Deak. 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 is possible only 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 involved Hungary so much in European world 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 presents Stephen with a crown on Christmas Day 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 according to seniority in the family, the first-born (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 Bath.

An Italian Benedictine monk from Venice, on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, met King Stephen and stayed in Hungary. After the death of the king, the pagans conceived 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, which now bears his name.

• Matthias Hunyadi

Where you can see this name: Matthias Church next to the Fisherman's Bastion, on the 1000 forint bill, 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 (it is far from democracy here, the upper classes of Hungary chose it). 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 were launched (the palace in Visegrad, for example), the paths for architectural implementation were opened, and Hungary was transformed. This time was then called the era of the Hungarian Renaissance.

• Ferenc Deak

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

Deák Ferenc was a statesman and minister of justice in the middle of the 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. The legend says that during one trip, at a party, robbers robbed Ferenc, but immediately returned everything as soon as they found out who they 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 for a compromise were not always successful, but in the end the deals between the Habsburgs and Hungary Deak Ferenc played a serious role, which led in 1867 to popular recognition.

• Istvan Szechenyi

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

Count Istvan Szechenyi was a well-known politician. In his youth, he traveled a lot, but the injustice towards his homeland forced him to return to Hungary. Upon arrival, he took up politics and various projects for the improvement of Budapest. He is called “The Greatest Hungarian” because his role in the settlement of 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. In the Golden Bull (a code of laws of the Hungarians from 1222), the rights of the family to the land were fixed, it was transferred “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 Szechenyi about the construction of the 1st bridge in Budapest. Istvan Széchenyi came to a bank in Vienna and asked for a cash loan, to which he was asked what he could leave as collateral. He replied that he could leave the documents on the ground. In Vienna, they laughed, remembered the Golden Bull, and Istvan was not given the impossibility of reselling the land and money.

His father, Count Ferenc Szechenyi, was involved in the creation of the Hungarian National Museum and, of course, the National Library. Széchenyi.
During the revolution of 1848, Szechenyi received the chair of the Minister of Transport and Social Affairs, but after the failure with the Habsburgs, he left the government and retired from political affairs. Despite his patriotism and desire to develop Hungary, Istvan suffered from a 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 on the Heroes' Square.

Lajos Kossuth - politician, lawyer, prime minister and regent president of Hungary during the 1848 revolution. Key figure in winning freedom from Austria and gaining independence for Hungary. After the failure of the revolution, he fled the country in a woman's dress, fearing execution. Later he lived in England, Italy and the USA, but continued to fight for the independence of Hungary.
Personally, my opinion about the chauvinistic views of Lajos Kossuth and the unshakable love of the Hungarians for him is as follows: 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 the limited budget and the meager presence of industry in the country, he gathered an army in a short time, he himself was in charge of finances, negotiated with England and France, protesting against Russian intervention. 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 Battyany is the first prime minister of Hungary and it was he who was “at the helm” in the revolution of 1848. He found himself between 2 fires during his reign and administration of Hungary: between loyalty to Austria and between supporters of radical reforms and independence of Hungary. Despite liberal attitudes, he chose the side of the radicals and led the people to fight against the Habsburgs, where he was wounded and captured. Before the execution, he tried to commit suicide, but it didn’t work out, and in the end he was still shot in the square, which now bears his name. Before the execution, he got down on one knee and shouted: “Live my country! Come on, hunters!

• Sandor Petofi

Where you can see this name: Petőfi Bridge.

The key figure, yes, yes, all in the same revolution of 1848. Considered the first Hungarian national poet, he regularly met with like-minded people in the Pilvaks cafe and now this cafe is still open and bears the name of Sandor Petofi. He died in the last battle for the independence of Hungary and his body has never been found. His most famous "National Song" is the anthem of the anti-Habsburg movement:

“Get up Magyar, the fatherland is calling!
Choose before it's too late:
Come to terms with slavery
Or be free?
We swear by the God of the Hungarians -
Forever!
Never be a slave
Never!..".

• Gyula Andrassy

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

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

• Queen Elizabeth

Where you can see this name: Erzsébet Bridge and Erzsébet Square (with Ferris Ring), lookout tower on Mount Janos.

Erzsebet is a Bavarian princess, 2nd cousin of the Emperor of Austria-Hungary Franz Joseph and his wife since 1854. Her life is characterized for the Austrians as a "disregard" for etiquette and the Habsburgs, but for the Hungarians she was a real queen. Elizabeth 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 becomes a dualistic country. What has dualism given Hungary? Greater freedom of action regarding the internal structure of Hungary, constitutional law. The capitals in the era of dualism were respectively Vienna and Budapest. The life story of Erzsébet or Sissi, as the Hungarians called her, is rather sad. Being in constant quarrels with her mother-in-law, not seeing her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph, being deprived of the opportunity to spend time and raise children, Erzsebet found solace 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 dies at the hands of an Italian anarchist. She was killed by Italian anarchists in 1898.

• Franz Liszt

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

The most interesting and expensive for me, of course, I left 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. Started performing at the age of 8, was kissed by Beethoven during one of the concerts, moved to Paris, started composing at the age of 14, went into depression, returned after 3 years, began composing revolutionary symphonies, Chopin envied him and his virtuosity of performance, met a married Countess Marie d'Agout, fell in love and fled to Switzerland together. In 1838, there was a big flood in Budapest and List, feeling a sharp patriotism in his soul, left his wife and left for his homeland to help his compatriots. Here, at home, in Hungary, he became the spokesman for the patriotic upsurge of the nation. Ferenc gave a series of charity concerts, but then again went on tour to Europe (and even to Russia). In 1848, having taken another woman from the family, he returned to native city. Here he was disappointed in educational activities, but at the same time, the peak of his composing came, he finished 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 sins, Ferenc took the veil as an acolyte and began to introduce spiritual motives into his compositions. In 1875, he again returned to Hungary, 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 part of 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 has long been used as a standard ringtone in Nokia phones; Ferenc had a long hand, which could cover almost two octaves. In general, 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.

The idea of ​​Hungary would not be complete without portraits of its famous representatives. Compatriots that the Hungarians are proud of will be discussed in our article.

Famous Hungarian composer and musician

The name of Franz Liszt is known not only in his homeland. It is one of the first to come to mind when it comes to classical music. Franz Liszt became a sensation of the twentieth century.

He created new instrumental genres - rhapsody and a symphonic poem, wrote 647 works (63 for orchestra and about 300 for piano), was distinguished by his rich imagination and courage, which allowed him to use new techniques in everything he does.

Ferenc or Franz?

The name, which is well known to the Russian-speaking public, was never used by the composer himself. He was born in October 1811 and was the only child in the family. At baptism, his father gave him the name, which in Latin is written "Franciscus", and in German it is read as "Franz". Liszt himself had a poor command of the Hungarian language, and always called the second option.

Composer at the age of 14

The composer's father encouraged the musical arts and played musical instruments himself, so he began teaching Ferenc early. As an eight-year-old boy, he already successfully spoke to patrons and received their support. Franz Liszt's first private music teachers were the legendary Carl Czerny and Antonio Salieri.

Later, his father took Ferenc to France to enter the Paris Conservatory. But the candidacy of the future composer was not even considered - foreigners were not accepted into the conservatory.

Despite the difficult financial situation, Franz and his father still remained in Paris. The boy was privately taught by teachers from the Paris Conservatory. And in order to pay for their services and their accommodation, Franz participated in concerts. He was 14 years old, and during this period he composed the first opera - Don Sancho, or the Castle of Love, which was staged at the Grand Opera.

Creation

The musician's career was bright and eventful. He triumphantly performed in France, Spain, Portugal, Hungary, Romania and Russia (concerts were held in St. Petersburg and Moscow). In Russia, he met Glinka, Verstovsky and Varlamov. Franz Liszt was a successful composer and conductor. Thanks to him, Weimar, where he worked, became the center of world musical culture.

Interesting fact: The name of the composer is the Weimar High School of Music. Liszt is an educational institution in Germany. It was opened only in 1872, however, Franz Liszt is considered the founder. Working in Weimar in 1835, he was the first to speak of the need for such a school.

Famous Hungarian philanthropists

Charity in the sense that we now put into this word was carried out by a woman who lived back in the 1200s. She founded a hospital for the poor, in which she herself worked on an equal basis with others, often distributing donations to the needy: food and clothing. The name of this lady - Elizabeth of Hungary - is now named mercy houses around the world.

Catholic Saint Elizabeth of Hungary

Elisabeth of Hungary or Elisabeth of Thuringia is a princess from the Hungarian Arpad dynasty, the daughter of King Andrew II, later the wife of the Landgrave of Thuringia Ludwig IV.

Since childhood, she was considered as a potential wife of Prince Ludwig, so from the age of four, Elizabeth was sent to be raised by her future mother-in-law. She got married at the age of 14. The marriage was happy, and Elizabeth bore Ludwig three children.

Franciscanism made a great impression on the landgrave's wife. She lived in accordance with his ideals of mercy. In 1227 her husband died during the sixth crusade, and his brother expelled the widow and her children. Elizabeth entered the Franciscan order and devoted herself to the works of mercy.

She later founded a hospital in Marburg where she nursed the sick. Concern for others and self-denial undermined her health. Elizabeth of Hungary died at the age of 24. Four years after her death, she was canonized. Saint Elizabeth is considered the patroness of the Third Order of the Laity of St. Francis, as well as bakers, as she often distributed bread to the needy.

Interesting fact: St. Elizabeth on the icons is often depicted with roses in her hands. This tradition goes back to legend. The ruler of Thuringia did not always support his wife's charitable activities. Once, meeting her on the street (St. Elizabeth was carrying bread in her apron to distribute to those in need), he demanded to see what she was holding in her hands. When the apron was opened, the husband saw that it was filled with roses.

Famous immigrants

Speaking about the famous people of Hungary, it is impossible to ignore those people who, for some reason, were forced to leave their homeland and immigrate to another country.

A legendary man with a strong character

Director, artist and teacher Yuri Lyubimov had Hungarian citizenship. Probably no point in repeating known facts biographies of the founder of the Taganka Theatre. Yuri Lyubimov is referred to as an imperious person who sought to control the work of the theater and actors in everything. He himself said that the more freedom the artists are given, the sooner they ruin the performance.

Lyubimov often argued and quarreled with the authorities, with authorities, with friends and his actors. However, he highly valued talent and could make concessions for it.

Yuri Lyubimov was very upset by the death of Vladimir Vysotsky, a friend and the leading actor in his production of Hamlet. The authorities banned his performance in memory of Vysotsky, as well as one of the new productions.

All this happened because of the director's straightforward attacks on the policy of culture of the USSR and his bold interpretations of classical works. Yuri Lyubimov was deprived of Russian citizenship in absentia and dismissed from the post of cultural director of the theater.

Yuri received Hungarian citizenship (his wife was Hungarian) and worked a lot abroad. "We are blessed by his exile!" Western cultural figures said.

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With each 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, 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”, but by the tribes of the Magyars who came from the Ural Mountains.

7 tribes were headed by Prince Arpad. He conquered new lands on the Danube and became the founder of a dynasty of Hungarian kings. So 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. On the Heroes' Square in 1896, in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the Finding of the Motherland by the Hungarians, a column and large monuments of seven leaders of the Magyar tribes, who crossed a thousand years ago from the Ural Mountains through the Carpathians, were erected.

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

The language of communication is the first thing that 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 shop, cafe, restaurant, museum, etc. it is customary to say hello and goodbye. Therefore, it will be useful to learn a couple of words in Hungarian))

Jó reggelt kívánok (Yo reggelt kivaanok) - good morning
Jó napot kívánok (Yo napot kivaanok) - good afternoon
Jó estét kívánok (Yo eshteet kivaanok) - good evening
Szia (Sia - one), Sziasztok (Siastok - 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 (egen) - yes
nem (nem) - no
Bejárat (beyarat) - entrance
Kijárat (kiyarat) - exit
Jo (Yo) - good
Jobb (Job) - very good

But our word “Pool” has an indecent meaning in the Hungarian language, so replace it when visiting beaches and baths with the word “Water” or “medenets” (which means “pool” in Hungarian). We gave our children instructions on this word, but all the same, in a fit of pleasure from swimming, they forgot about the “replacement” and shouted phrases like this: “Let's swim in the pool with waves”, which caused the stormy indignation of the Hungarian old women))

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

When we rested at Balaton, the staff at the local cafe spoke only Hungarian or German, signs "rooms for rent" are also written in German.

• Hungary is a famous resort country.

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

photo from www.gellertfurdo.hu

A visit to the thermal baths in Hungary is a mandatory item on the program, a “must have” for every traveler. And in which baths are better to choose, our rating of the best baths in Budapest will help you.

Unforgettable was for us a trip to the cave bath 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 out the grottoes, walls and vaults of the cave. Read our bathing experience here:

The resort town of Eger is a wonderful opportunity to combine health, gastronomic and tourist holidays. Nearby, in Egerszalok, there is the "Hungarian Pamukalle" - a salt hill and thermal water of unique composition.

Read more about our trip in this article:

• In the Danube, people don't swim in the 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 largest lakes in Europe. But at the same time very small.

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

Balaton - popular resort Hungary, there are many thermal springs. The water of the lake 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, go to a depth of 500 meters, or even more. Therefore Balaton - wonderful place for holidays with children. And what color is the water! Blue-green, turquoise - shades change under the sun's rays. That's very beautiful!

On the Tihany peninsula, a monument was erected to the Hungarian king Andras I and his wife, the Ukrainian princess Anastasia, daughter of Yaroslav the Wise.

Read more about our vacation at Balaton here:

• Heviz is the largest thermal lake in Europe.

A few kilometers from Balaton is the famous lake Heviz. It, like Balaton, is the national pride of Hungary. And this is not just a lake with healing water, but a lake in a crater 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 swimming here will not work for a long time - too active an effect on the body. There is a time limit for adults. And for children under 16 years old, swimming in Heviz is not recommended.

The charm of the lake is given by pink, 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 "do not flirt with a girl coming out of Heviz, because it could be your grandmother")))

Our gastronomic discoveries.

• Dishes of Hungarian cuisine can be very peppery, spicy.

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

• In the shops of Hungary you will not find the usual buckwheat, herring, caviar.

Buckwheat is considered bird food and is sold in pet stores, while herring is, according to Hungarians, a “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. Gouash is often prepared by men, because it is easy to prepare. The bean is also very tasty - gouyash with beans and smoked meats. Gouyash at the stake is called Bograch. The word "bograch" is translated from Hungarian as "cauldron", "cauldron".

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

Hungarians eat a lot of pork and know how to cook excellent lard with spices and spices. It just melts in your mouth))) The meat and lard of a 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, Pec, Keszthely and Budapest. A sweet fairy tale reigns in the marzipan museum. What the masters do not do with this product!

We wrote about how we visited the Marzipan Museum in Sendendra here:

Alcoholic drinks in Hungary.

• Hungary is a wine producing country.

Many people have heard about Hungarian wines. The famous Tokay wines and the sweet wine Assou are considered among the best dessert white wines in Europe. On the bottle of Tokaji Aszu is written "Vinum Regum, Rex Vinorum!", which means "This is the wine of kings, and the king among 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 with 40 medicinal herbs. It has been manufactured by Zwack for over 200 years. It was invented by the court physician Josef Zwak in 1790 for Emperor Joseph II as a means to improve the functioning of the stomach. “Das ist ein Unikum! “- exclaimed the emperor when he tried this balm. So the drink remained in history. The recipe for this bitter liqueur is still a secret of the Zwak family. In order not to reveal the secret, they specially buy more species herbs than you really need.

To be honest, at first we did not like the unique one. Having tried it for the first time, we did not appreciate its bitter - herbal taste. But now Unicum is one of our favorite Hungarian drinks. Be sure to bring a bottle of balm home 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 carry fruit to special factories to make their own 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 of the sculptor, architect Professor Erno Rubik. For more than 30 years, the Rubik's Cube Championship has been held in Budapest. A world record was set here - 7 seconds.

• 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 horsemen. In the 15th century, King Matthias Korvin ordered every twentieth “conscript” to be sent to cavalry units. The fame of victories in battles, courage and skill of the Hungarian hussars quickly spread throughout Europe. Soon the name "hussars" appeared in Poland, Prussia, Lithuania, Russia. Russia borrowed from the hussars not only the name, but also the uniform.

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

• Buses known to us Ikarus also from Budapest. The company that produces them was founded in the Hungarian capital 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 survived to this day and is actively used. It is very interesting to ride in small old subway cars and visit the subway museum.

Find out about the old subway and the subway museum here:

• In Budapest, you can ride on another original attraction. On the route number 4 and number 6 goes 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. Routes numbered from 1 to 69 do not exist. Budapest owes this to its socialist past. In 1949, the first trolleybus appeared in the capital of Hungary. The route number was given to him as the 70th, in honor of the 70th anniversary of Stalin

• The amphibious tourist bus is an original way to see Budapest. This miracle bus not only travels along the roads with the sights of Budapest, but also floats along the Danube. A very unusual and exciting tour.

photo from the site

At the end of our selection of interesting facts about Hungary - another important tourist discovery.

Hungarians are very careful about their history and culture, revered as national heroes of kings, figures of politics, culture and art. Many streets, squares, cathedrals are named after the heroes of Hungary. With trepidation, the Hungarians treat the monuments of architecture. Even in the ruins of ancient temples, castles, fortresses, museums are arranged, festivals, concerts, and theatrical performances are held.

An interesting fact is that in 1933 in Budapest, on the Lehel tér square, an exact copy of the unique Jambek basilica of the 13th century, destroyed by the earthquake of 1763, was built. So, if you wish, you can see how the basilica looked like in the distant 12th century.

copy in Budapest.

In fact, you can write a lot about Hungary. Each of our visits is a new discovery, tourist, cultural, gastronomic. Hungary is a very interesting country! It is worth coming here, especially since it is 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 Wizzair.

Where to stay. Housing in Hungary.

• Hotels in Hungary.

We wish you new travels and bright discoveries!

The article is written with love and boundless gratitude to our dear Lyudmila and Alexei Yamkovenko.