Sightseeing in Miskolc - what to see. Complete travel guide

The gorgeous Hungarian city of Miskolc lies east from the Bukk Mountains. Many tourists around the world know Miskolc as a beautiful historical center with multiple Baroque style buildings. This city is incredibly rich in architectural landmarks. Together with the natural attractions of the region, these landmarks create an inimitable atmosphere and heritage of the Hungarian city. Multiple tourists visit this part of the country to visit the treasure of Miskolc – the resort with the same name famous for its thermal springs with the healing properties.

The first inhabitants in the area of modern Miskolc appeared yet during the Palaeolithic period. Archaeological excavations in the region proved this. They settled in Szeleta Cave, giving the name to such term as the Szeleta Culture. During the Roman Empire period, Celtic tribes settled in the region. When the Roman reign ended, Avarian, Slavic, and Hungarian people migrated to this region. In 1364, the status of Miskolc was raised. The settlement became a town by the order of King Louis I. This is the time when the first fortress – Diosgyor – was built in Miskolc.

Turkish troops attacked Miskolc in 1544. The town was burnt down during this attack. The alien invaders were defeated only in the 17th century. During the anti-Habsburg conflict, the leader of the Hungarian uprising Francis Rakoczi settled in Miskolc. However, the imperial army soon attacked the town and burnt it down, destroying the fortress. Restorative works lasted until the 19th century. The first cast iron furnaces opened in the region in the 70s of the 18th century. After this, Miskolc quickly turned into a major center of metallurgy and heavy machine building in Hungary. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Perhaps, Diosgyor Fortress is the first attraction that tourists visit in Miskolc. The fortress was originally built in the 13th century. However, it was in ruins after the devastating attacks of the Ottomans and Austrians and was restored only in the 50s of the 20th century. Thanks to the thorough restoration, the fortress returned its original, pre-war look. Today, tourists can visit this wonderful stronghold and feel the atmosphere of the past. The fortress houses the exhibition of an interesting museum with several thematic halls.

In one of these halls, there is a collection of medieval weapons used during sieges and in battles. Another exhibition of the museum is dedicated to a collection of items discovered during the numerous archaeological excavations, which frequently took place in modern Miskolc. Visit the other two halls to learn more about the lifestyle and traditions of people who lived in the fortress. There is also an installation that illustrates the scene of signing an agreement between the ruler of Hungary and a Venetian representative. All figures in this hall are made of wax.

Would you like to visit an authentic Hungarian shrine? In Miskolc, tourists can visit the Calvinist Church built in the 13th century. This is a well-known protestant religious building. The shrine was reconstructed and rebuilt a number of times over the centuries. After them, the church became bigger and changed its look. Nowadays, the Calvinist Church is a beautiful example of the Gothic style with such prominent features as the triple nave and unique inner décor. Why is this shrine so special? Despite its centuries-long history, the church is still wooden and has a large pipe organ.

Many tourists continue their excursion in the neighborhood in the cemetery located close to the Calvinist Church. Many prominent Hungarians, such as prime-minister Paloczi and the Latabar actor dynasty, are buried here. A bell tower was added to the church in 1557. The bell tower is still active, so it is possible to hear its sound from time to time. Local people respect this shrine, and so no one talks here while the bells are ringing.

Do you enjoy visiting theaters while on a holiday? In this case, here is an interesting fact for you – Miskolc has always been a “theatre region”. This city is home to a big State Theater opened in 1856. Nowadays, the theater building is one of the main attractions of Miskolc. Its stages regularly host different interesting plays and performances. Visitors can see both classic plays and experimental theater here. If you happen to visit Miskolc in June, you can attend the opera festival.

There are several daily trains to Miskolc from the Hungarian capital. The ride lasts only two hours. Besides trains, it is possible to reach the old historical city by bus from Budapest and Debrecen. The journey time is the same – two hours. The ride from Eger is shorter. By the way, tourists are always welcome to hire a taxi or rent a car and drive to Miskolc.