Eger, city of priests, defenders, wine and all folks
Eger is a lovely, historical baroque city. Nested in a nice valley between the two highest mountains (Mátra and Bükk) of Hungary, famous for its medieval fortress and for the heroic battle fought by a vastly outnumbered group of Hungarian soldiers and civilians (2 thousand defenders pitted against a horde of 40 000 Ottoman conquerors) in 1552. This was recorded for posterity in the novel titled “Stars of Eger” by romantic novelist Géza Gárdonyi, now mandatory reading for every Hungarian schoolgoing child in.
What to see & do:
When the Turks eventually left, they left their own mark on the town: among others, the northernmost minaret of Europe stands here. After the Turkish invasion, the city found its revival in the 18th century under episcopal care that gave a new, baroque look to the settlement. Here visitors can find a bunch of ‘real Hungarian’ things: history, architecture, wine, thermal baths and, beyond the city precincts, nature – all within the boundaries of a comfy cycling tour. For more information consult the Culture panel.
Outings and excursions:
There are a number of attractions with different character in the area, like e.g. Egerszalók (wellness hotel), Noszvaj (De la Motte Castle), Szilvásvárad (Szalajka valley, narrow gauge railway, horse stable), Szarvaskő (Camping and Adventure Park).
Programs and events:
- Eger Spring Festival (March - April)
- Agria Summer Nights (all season)
- Erlau Dance Festival (July-August)
- Bull’s Blood feast (July)
- Medieval Marketplace (July)
- Knight Tournament (July)
- Slow Film Festival (August)
- Eger Celebrations (September)
- Eger Castle Day (October 17) – free museum visit
