Dominican House, Pecs

The Dominican House in Pecs is a building with a layered history, standing as a testament to the city's evolving architectural and cultural landscape. Originally constructed as a church in 1724 by the Dominican Order, the structure never reached completion in its intended form. By the 19th century, it was repurposed into a residential building, incorporating remnants of the old church into its new function.

The Dominicans first settled in Pecs in 1288, later returning in 1688 following the expulsion of the Ottoman Turks. Interestingly, before the Dominican church's construction, the site was occupied by Pasha Ferhad's mosque during Ottoman rule. However, after the dissolution of the Dominican Order by Emperor Joseph II in 1786, the church and its adjacent monastery were left abandoned. Over time, the building served various purposes, including housing French prisoners during wartime and functioning as a warehouse, before ultimately being transformed into a residential property for Dr. Bela Johan in the 19th century.

Today, the Dominican House has been repurposed as a cultural center and is a prominent feature of Szinhaz Square. The history of the former Dominican church is commemorated by a pyro-granite plaque on the building's northern façade, depicting a relief of the old church. Additionally, a black marble slab in the middle of the square pays tribute to the Dominicans who played a significant role in the city's religious and social life.