Gyor, Hungary

The county seat, Gyor is packed with heritage and sights not to miss. An important cultural and administrative centre this traffic junction is located at the confluence of three rivers, the Duna, Raba and the Rabca.

Gyor is particularly rich in ecclesiastical heritage. The episcopal cathedral holds one of the most valuable examples of goldsmith's work, the St Ladislaus herm that was made in the 15th century for the relics of King Ladislaus I. The sarcophagus of beatified martyr bishop Vilmos Apor (1892-1945) is also found in the cathedral. The treasury of the basilica keeps numerous values and its fine art collections are particularly valuable. There are permanent exhibitions of the work of one of the most significant ceramists of the 20th century, Gyor-born Margit Kovacs (1902-1977), and of outstanding Hungarian sculptor of the 20th century, Miklos Borsos (1906-1990) who studied in the Benedictine grammar school. Natural scientist, traveller and ethnographer Janos Xantus (1825-1894) after whom the city museum and zoo were named also attended school here. The thermal baths and aquapark provide the residents and visitors alike with an opportunity for rejuvenation and there are numerous possibilities for outings and walks.

Sights of Gyor

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF CARMEL, CARMELITE

Designed by Martin Witwer and built between 1713 and 1725, this church is one of the most beautiful Baroque edifices in the city, thanks to its interesting ground plan with its unusually sited steeple and the carefully elaborated facade.

EPISCOPAL CATHEDRAL

from the 12th century. The Romanesque church was refurbished first in Gothic, then Baroque style. The St Ladislaus chapel can be visited daily from 8am to 12am and from 2pm to 6pm.

Synagogue

The Orthodox Synagogue in Gyor holds an important place in Central European architecture of the 19th century. The unusual octagonal shape of the building was to establish a new school of synagogue architecture.

Margit Kovacs Exhibition

Born in Gyor, ceramist Margit Kovacs (1902-1977) has a permanent exhibition set up in the 1820 Classical Kreszta House. The ceramic figures glow with warmth, harmony and the magic of fairy tales.

St. Ladislaus Herm

It is estimated that this 65-centimetre-tall, gilded silver, cloisonne head reliquary was made between 1400 and 1425. The herm is one of the masterpieces of Hungarian goldsmithery.