The County Hall, Pecs (must see)

The County Hall of Pecs is one of the most striking buildings in Szechenyi Square, embodying a rich architectural history and artistic craftsmanship. Built in 1897, this imposing structure serves as the seat of Baranya County. The building stands on the site of the former Czyndery House and Cseby House, where Emperor Joseph II once stayed during his visit to Pecs in 1770. In 1895, the Pecs-Baranya Central Savings Bank acquired the site and constructed its headquarters, which remains a focal point of the square today. The bees and beehives adorning the façade symbolize the institution’s financial origins.

Among its most remarkable artistic features are the elaborate decorations, many of which were crafted by skilled foremen from the renowned Zsolnay factory. The building’s roof, originally adorned with intricate tile patterns, was largely destroyed in a fire in 1954. Though the structure was later rebuilt with a simpler roof design, the remaining original center pattern showcases the ingenuity of Vilmos Zsolnay, whose patented eosin glaze and pyrogranite technique revolutionized ceramic craftsmanship. These techniques, acclaimed at the 1878 World’s Fair in Paris, remain visible across Hungary, notably in the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Gellert Baths, and Pecs’ own post office.

The County Hall’s historical layers go beyond its 19th-century origins. The front space of the building, facing the street, was initially constructed by Jesuits between 1716 and 1726, incorporating tombstones from a Turkish cemetery. Inside, visitors can admire stunning frescos by Erno Gebauer above the stairs, depicting the foundation of the first university in Pecs.

Adding to the building’s charm is the small park in front of it, where a marble bust of Leonardo da Vinci stands, offering a quiet space for reflection amidst the city’s historic core. Today, the County Hall remains a key architectural and cultural landmark in Pecs, reflecting the city’s deep connection to both Hungarian history and artistic excellence.