Hungary

Welcome to Hungary

Hungary is a country in Central Europe, and it is well-known as Magyarország in Hungarian. Although this region was once a part of the Roman Empire, soon after, under the rule of King Stephen in 1000 AD the Kingdom of Hungary was established. This kingdom lasted over three centuries, and it is considered the Golden Age because during this era Hungary expanded significantly and became one of the most powerful empires in Europe. Nonetheless, it faced invasions by the Mongols in 1241. Not only that, but this region was conquered by the Ottoman Empire as well in the 16th century, and by then it was divided into three parts: Royal Hungary, Ottoman Hungary, and the Principality of Transylvania. Regardless, by the end of the 17th century, under the rule of Habsburg, all parts of Hungary were reunited and became one land again. Furthermore, Hungary declared independence in 1918, but later it was occupied by the Soviet Union, after a long battle of struggling for independence, this country finally gained independence in 1990, and since then it has seen magnificent advancement and growth in the economy. 

Budapest is the capital and largest city in Hungary; it is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world due to its complex history and marvelous architecture. It is also worth mentioning that this city is the unification of three cities: Buda, Obuda, and Pest, which was officially established in 1873 as one city under the name of Budapest. Culture is highly appreciated in this city as it is a pinpoint of art, music, and theater. Also, many festivals are held here, such as the Budapest Spring Festival and the Sziget Festival, which is one of the biggest music festivals in Europe. That is not all; Budapest has so much to offer, including Buda Castle, where you can dive into the history of Hungary and also have a panoramic view of the city. Szechenyi Thermal Bath is one of the biggest spas in Europe, and it is accompanied by hot springs and pools indoors and outdoors. If you are more interested in nature, then you can visit City Park, which includes Budapest Zoo and Vajdahunyad Castle. After that, you can go to the Great Market Hall, which is the oldest and biggest market in Budapest, ideal for buying souvenirs and trying local traditional Hungarian foods, such as Chicken Paprikash (chicken cooked in paprika sauce), Fisherman’s Soup (spicy fish), and Dobos Torte (sponge cake filled with chocolate). 

Interesting Facts About Hungary

• Hungary is famous for being the land of thermal springs and baths.
• Paprika is Hungary’s most popular spice and a symbol of its cuisine.
• Hungary also has one of the oldest metro railways in the world, dating back to 1896.
• You cannot name your child in Hungary unless it is approved by the government.