Pecs Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Pecs

The City Hall of Pecs stands as a striking example of Neo-Baroque architecture with subtle eclectic elements, embodying the rich history and cultural diversity of the city. Completed in 1907, the building represents the third incarnation of Pecs' municipal center following the end of Turkish rule.

The first town hall was erected in 1695, symbolizing a new era after Ottoman occupation. However, the structure underwent multiple reconstructions, first in 1710 after a fire, and again in 1834, when local architect Jozsef Piatsek transformed it into a refined Classicist building. By the late 19th century, Pecs' expansion necessitated a grander seat of government, leading to the construction of the current City Hall, designed by Adolf Lang.

One of the most enchanting features of the City Hall is its bell tower, which has resonated across Szechenyi Square since 1871. Every hour, the carillon melodies mark the passage of time, intertwining with the daily life of the city. This enduring tradition has become an auditory symbol of Pecs, much like the iconic Zsolnay ceramic tiles that adorn buildings throughout the city.

Located in Szechenyi Square, the historic heart of Pecs, the City Hall shares its surroundings with other architectural and cultural landmarks. The square, once a medieval marketplace, remains a focal point of urban life. To the north stands the Pasha Qasim Mosque, a testament to the city's Ottoman past, now converted into a church. On the southern side, a unique Zsolnay fountain, featuring oxen heads spouting water, further enhances the square’s artistic legacy.

Today, the City Hall serves as the seat of the General Assembly of Pecs, continuing its role as an administrative and cultural hub. More than just a government building, it is a reflection of Pecs’ identity as a "Borderless City," embracing the diverse heritage of Hungarians, Croatians, Serbians, and other communities that have shaped its history. Its grand facade, crowned with the city's coat of arms, stands as a proud testament to Pécs’ resilience, artistic spirit, and enduring charm.

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.

The National Theatre of Pecs stands as the primary cultural and theatrical venue of Pecs with a history that stretches back to the early 19th century. Initially, theatrical performances were held in various makeshift venues, such as inns, dance halls, and small stages, until the first dedicated theatre opened in Maria Street in 1840. This building was eventually demolished in 1890, leaving behind only a sketch of its facade.

The current theatre was designed in the Eclectic style by Austrian-born architects Adolf Lang and Antal Steinhardt, with further contributions from the renowned Fellner-Helmer duo. Built to accommodate 800 spectators, the theatre was planned with a harmonious balance of form and function. The main facade, set back from the main street by a small square, features a classical architectural design with a tympanum supported by four Corinthian columns. The octagonal central pavilion features a tin-cased dome with a finial. The arched entrance gate serves as a focal point, while symmetrical corner projections, each with smaller tin-cased domes, enhance the design.

Adding to its grandeur, the theatre is adorned with statues of notable Hungarian theatrical figures, including Gergely Csiky, Ede Szigligeti, Karoly Kisfaludy, and Ferenc Erkel. The Genius statue, crafted by sculptor Gyorgy Kiss in collaboration with the Zsolnay Porcelain Manufacture, crowns the dome, symbolizing the artistic spirit of the theatre.

Since its grand opening on 5 October 1895 with Ferenc Erkel's Bank Ban, the National Theatre of Pecs has remained a vital cultural institution, continuously adapting to modern needs while preserving its historic elegance. Today, it stands as a proud testament to the city's artistic heritage, hosting performances that captivate audiences in an environment of architectural beauty and technical sophistication.

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.

The Swan House (Hattyu Haz) in Pecs is a historic building with a rich past spanning over two centuries. Originally constructed in the early 1800s on the site of a former Turkish building, it was first known as the "Feher Hattyu" or "White Swan" Inn. Over time, the structure evolved, gaining a reputation as a lively dance hall before being renovated in an eclectic architectural style. This transformation included the addition of an elegant vaulted gateway, which remains a notable feature of the building today.

During its long history, the Swan House has served multiple functions. In 1809, it temporarily operated as a military hospital. Later in the 19th century, it became one of Pecs' most renowned cultural venues. The Great Hall of the Swan Vigado played host to a significant musical event on October 26, 1846, when the legendary Franz Liszt performed a concert there. The proceeds from the performance were donated to charity, and it was in this hall that Liszt's "Hungarian Song" was first performed by the Pecs Choral Society.

By 1862, the building's legacy as a musical venue was further cemented when the Pecs Choral Society performed at the site. In later years, the Swan House housed the offices of the State Insurance Company before taking on its present form.

Today, visitors to the Swan House can still see historical elements that echo its past. Above the entrance, the words "Swan Court" are inscribed, while part of the facade displays the word "Swan" in black lettering. The building's large wooden entrance door leads into a charming courtyard, where a seated statue of a woman is surrounded by a rose garden.

As a landmark in Pecs, the Swan House stands as a reminder of the city's vibrant artistic, social, and historical heritage, offering a glimpse into its rich past through its architecture and enduring cultural significance.

King Street (Király Street) is the most well-known pedestrian thoroughfare in downtown Pecs, stretching from Szechenyi Square eastward through Wheat Square to Katalin Street. This historic street is home to several architecturally significant buildings and has played a central role in the city's cultural and commercial life for centuries.

King Street was once traversed by a tram line, which operated from 1913 to 1960, and today, a commemorative plaque marks its presence. Though primarily pedestrianized, vehicular access is allowed up to the Lyceum Church. The street’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by its numerous restaurants, cafés, and galleries. Visitors are encouraged to admire the richly ornamented facades of the historic buildings, which feature elegant rosettes and framed windows.

A highlight of King Street is the National Theatre of Pecs, located in the middle section of the promenade. Constructed between 1893 and 1895, the theatre opened with a performance of Bank ban. It remains a major cultural hub in Pecs, featuring a state-of-the-art revolving stage, a modular orchestra pit, and advanced lighting, sound, and video systems.

The street is also home to the renowned Art Nouveau Palatinus Hotel. Originally opened in May 1915 as the Pannonia Grand Hotel, it was later renamed the Palatinus in 1975 and is now officially known as Hotel Palatinus City Center. Designed by architect Andor Pilch, the hotel was built on the site of the Hamerli family's former glove manufacturing plant. The three-story structure remains an iconic feature of the street, contributing to its historic charm.

Another architectural gem is Vasvary House, located at 19 King Street. This building is adorned with intricate pyrogranite reliefs from the Zsolnay porcelain factory, created by Tade Sikorszki in 1893. Originally owned by iron merchant Gyorgy Vasvary, the building's facade bears symbols of the iron industry and trade. The earliest records of the house date back to 1840, and it was later rebuilt by architects Istvan Ivankovits and Antal Szantho in the 1870s. Inside, the staircase wall features paintings by Franz Joseph Mucke.

With its deep historical roots, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene, King Street continues to be one of the most significant and engaging destinations in Pecs.

The Synagogue of Pecs, an architectural gem of the 19th century, stands as a testament to the once-thriving Jewish community in the city. Designed by renowned Hungarian architects Frigyes Feszl, Karoly Gerster, and Lipot Kauser, the synagogue was completed in 1869, showcasing the grandeur of the Hungarian Romantic style. Built at a time when Jewish communities were finally gaining full emancipation, it reflects the aspirations of a people eager to establish their place in Hungarian urban society.

Located near the center of Pecs, the synagogue captures attention with its peach-colored facade and distinctive tri-partite design, a reflection of Jewish religious laws that discourage metaphorical motifs. A large clock adorns the upper portion of the structure, just below a Hebrew inscription that reads, "The house of worship for all people." Above this, the stone tablets of Moses crown the building, reinforcing its sacred purpose.

The synagogue’s sanctuary is a striking space, featuring a star-painted ceiling, dark Slavonian oak seating, and gold-topped pillars. The main nave is flanked by aisles, with women’s galleries rising two stories to seat 448, while the main floor holds 476 men. The imposing Aron ha-Kodesh houses a replica of the Mosaic tablets, and a rosette with the Tetragrammaton (YHWH) adds to the spiritual depth.

Despite its beauty and historical significance, the synagogue bears the heavy scars of history. Nearly 90 percent of Pecs’ Jewish population perished in the Holocaust, with most deported to Auschwitz in mid-1944. Plaques on the interior walls and a “Book of Tears” placed beneath the bimah commemorate those who were lost. Though some survivors returned to Pecs after World War II, the Jewish population has continued to decline over the decades.

Today, the synagogue remains an active place of worship, though the local Jewish community is small. Open to visitors, it stands as both a monument to Jewish resilience and a reminder of the vibrant cultural and religious life that once flourished in Pecs. The building’s striking design, rich history, and solemn memorials make it a significant landmark, preserving the memory of a past that shaped the city’s heritage.

The Hild Garden (Hild Udvar) in Pecs is a serene and charming urban space named after the distinguished Hungarian architect Hild Jozsef. Nestled within the Elephant House, a well-known architectural complex, the garden seamlessly integrates itself into the heart of the city. It serves as a tranquil retreat from the bustling streets while also acting as a vibrant cultural hub.

Strategically positioned on the southwest corner of Szechenyi Square, Hild Garden is easily accessible from Pecs’s main pedestrian street. Three gates provide direct connections to Szechenyi and Jokai squares, allowing for easy passage and interaction with the surrounding urban fabric. The garden is enveloped by residential buildings, some of which were once owned by prominent families, lending a historical charm to the area. One notable structure on the northern side of the block is a house purchased in 1816 by Pecs-based architect Jozsef Piatsek. This building stands out for its versatility, offering conveniences suited for various ages and interests.

Hild Garden is more than just a green space—it is a center of artistic and literary engagement. The House of Arts and Literature is situated nearby, further enriching the cultural atmosphere of the garden. During the warmer months, Hild Garden becomes a lively venue for concerts and live performances, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

The peaceful ambiance of Hild Garden, coupled with its cultural offerings and accessibility, makes it an ideal spot for both social gatherings and solitary relaxation.

The Bath of Pasha Memi in Pecs stands as a remarkable relic of the Ottoman era, recognized as the longest surviving Turkish bath from the period of Turkish rule. Constructed in the 16th century, the bath was an essential part of the city's architectural and cultural landscape, embodying the Ottoman emphasis on both physical and spiritual purification. Like other noble structures of the time, it was built with an intricate sense of order, reflecting the importance of cleanliness in Turkish tradition.

This bathhouse was actively used until the 19th century when it was demolished in 1880. However, archaeological interest led to its rediscovery, and by 1963, it had undergone significant restoration. In the 1970s, the site was opened to the public, incorporating an exhibition of Turkish historical artifacts. Today, visitors can explore the reconstructed remains of the Turkish spa room, a partial reconstruction of the original bath area, and a dedicated display of the history of Turkish baths in Hungary.

Situated near the Franciscan Church at the end of Ferencesek Street, the remains of Pasha Memi’s bath are one of five notable Turkish structures in Pecs that have been preserved in a fragmentary yet insightful state. Historical records, including the writings of the 17th-century Turkish traveler Evliya Celebi, offer glimpses into the grandeur of the bath, which he described as a “pleasant warm bath of fine architecture, with bath attendants whose palms are as smooth as the sun.” Excavations have revealed elements such as an ornate fountain, massage benches, and an advanced underfloor heating system, further highlighting the sophistication of Ottoman engineering.

The Bath of Pasha Memi continues to attract both tourists and locals, offering a unique glimpse into the heritage of Turkish bathing culture. Alongside its historical displays, the site remains a testament to the Ottoman influence in Hungary and the enduring significance of communal baths in Turkish society.

The Mosque of Jakovali Hassan Pasha is the most complete and best-preserved Ottoman-era mosque in Hungary, standing as a testament to the region's Turkish past. Built in the late 16th or early 17th century during the Ottoman occupation, the mosque was commissioned by Yakovalı Hasan Pasa, an Ottoman governor known for his military campaigns and administrative role in Pecs. Unlike other mosques in Hungary, which were either demolished or heavily modified, this one retains both its original structure and its minaret, making it a rare survivor of Ottoman architecture in Central Europe.

Following the Austrian conquest of Pecs in 1686, the mosque was repurposed as a hospital before being converted into a Catholic chapel in the early 18th century. During this transformation, Baroque carvings were added, and the minaret was repurposed as a bell tower. However, the original Arabic inscriptions inside the prayer niche (mihrab) were preserved, offering a glimpse into its Islamic heritage. In the 1960s and 2000s, extensive restoration efforts removed later modifications, restoring the mosque to its original Ottoman appearance.

Today, the mosque functions as both an active place of worship and a museum, showcasing Islamic religious artifacts, Turkish handicrafts, and exhibits on Hungary’s Ottoman history. A permanent exhibition, enriched with 16th-century furnishings provided by Turkey, opened in 2022. Visitors can admire its classic Ottoman design, featuring a square base, a domed roof, and ogee windows, as well as the 22.5-meter-high minaret—though access to the top is now restricted for safety reasons.

The mosque is located near a statue of Ibrahim Pecevi, an Ottoman chronicler from Pecs, unveiled in 2016. It remains open to the public on designated days, except for Friday prayer times (2:30–3:30 PM), with maintenance supported through private donations and Turkish state funding.

The Bishop's Palace in Pecs stands as a historic and architectural gem that reflects the city's ecclesiastical and cultural heritage. Its origins trace back to the twelfth century, when it was first inhabited by the Frankish Bishop Bonipert and later by the Hungarian Bishop Mor. Throughout the centuries, the palace has undergone multiple renovations, transforming from its medieval Romanesque and Gothic elements into the Baroque and Neo-Renaissance structures seen today.

King Saint Stephen established the bishopric of Pecs in 1009, which later led to the construction of the palace. However, the church was tragically destroyed when King Solomon and Prince Geza reconciled, necessitating the construction of the Romanesque Basilica that now forms part of the Bishop's Castle complex. The palace itself has seen various reconstructions, particularly after the destruction caused by the Ottoman occupation. In the period between 1751 and 1770, Bishop Gyorgy Klimo commissioned an extensive renovation that reshaped the palace with Baroque and Renaissance influences.

Further modifications in the nineteenth century included the addition of a second story, an ornate facade, and a balcony, where the 1983 statue of Franz Liszt, crafted by Imre Varga, now peers over the courtyard. The structure conceals architectural details from various periods, including Gothic windows and Roman-style layouts hidden beneath its Neo-Renaissance exterior.

Visitors to the Bishop's Palace can explore its inner garden and the secret underground hallway connecting it to the Bishop’s Cellar. The palace also houses a collection of historical artifacts, including religious relics, antique furniture, Flemish tapestries from the era of Maria Theresa, and an intriguing assortment of tobacco pipes and books on smoking. The preserved wooden tobacco pipe of the priest of Ibafa remains one of its more curious artifacts.

As part of the UNESCO-listed Early Christian Necropolis of Pecs, the Bishop’s Palace remains a site of deep historical significance. Its combination of architectural grandeur, hidden historical elements, and cultural heritage make it an essential destination for visitors exploring the rich history of Pecs and Hungary.

The Saints Peter and Paul's Cathedral Basilica, commonly known as Pecs Cathedral, is a historic Roman Catholic church in Pecs, serving as the seat of the Diocese of Pecs. With foundations dating back to the Roman period in the fourth century, the site has undergone numerous transformations reflecting Hungary's complex history.

Originally, an early Christian basilica stood on the site, expanding westward between the eighth and ninth centuries. Under the reign of Stephen I, the cathedral underwent modifications, with the construction of its two western towers believed to date from this period. A significant fire in 1064 led to the reconstruction of the church in the Romanesque style, involving Italian architects. During the Middle Ages, additional Gothic chapels and two lateral towers further enhanced the structure.

The cathedral endured considerable damage during the Turkish occupation (1543–1686), necessitating later restoration efforts. Its current neo-Romanesque design stems from a major reconstruction between 1882 and 1891, overseen by Viennese architect Friedrich von Schmidt, who sought to faithfully recreate its medieval grandeur.

The cathedral's interior is equally remarkable. Its main altar, crowned by an ornate baldachin, is a focal point, while the grand arch visually divides the space into two halves. A highlight of the choir is a four-manual organ with over 6,000 pipes, crafted by the renowned Angster Organ Factory of Pecs. The Chapels of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Corpus Christi feature stunning seccos by Karoly Lotz, while the works of Bertalan Szekely adorn the Chapel of Mary and the Chapel of Saint Mor.

The 12th-century five-nave crypt is a key historical feature, notable for its vast cross-vaulted design. During archaeological excavations, the mortal remains of Janus Pannonius, a celebrated Humanist poet and former Bishop of Pecs, were rediscovered and reinterred here, marked by a commemorative sculpture.

The Pecs Cathedral has been a defining city landmark. Briefly converted into a mosque during the 16th-century Turkish occupation, it was restored as a church in 1686. Mihaly Pollack added Gothic Revival elements in the early 19th century, but structural issues remained. A late 19th-century renovation stabilized the building, reviving its medieval character. In 1990, Pope John Paul II’s visit reaffirmed its historical and religious significance. Today, it stands as an architectural and spiritual cornerstone of Hungary.

The Early Christian Necropolis of Pecs is a remarkable Roman cemetery and archaeological site in Pecs, dating back to the 4th century AD. It stands as one of the most significant Roman cemeteries outside of Italy, offering a rare glimpse into early Christian burial practices in the Late Roman Empire. Recognized for its size, architecture, and artistic significance, the necropolis was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.

The origins of the necropolis trace back to Sopianae, the Roman settlement that flourished in what is now Pecs. Founded in the 1st century AD, Sopianae grew into a prosperous town at the crossroads of important trade routes. By the 4th century, as Christianity spread across the empire, a Christian cemetery was established to the north of the city, remaining in use until the fall of Rome.

The necropolis first came to light in 1782, during the demolition of a Renaissance palace, revealing hidden burial chambers. More extensive excavations in the 20th century, led by Otto Szonyi and Istvan Moller, uncovered a dense burial complex with over 500 graves and 20 major monuments, making it one of the most concentrated collections of burial architecture in the northern and western Roman provinces. These tombs were built for wealthy Sopianae families, serving both as burial sites and ceremonial spaces.

The necropolis is a two-level structure, with underground crypts and catacombs where the deceased were laid to rest in brick tombs or sarcophagi, and above-ground chapels and mausoleums marking their resting places. The burial chambers feature rich murals depicting Christian themes, including portraits of the deceased, biblical scenes (such as Jonah and the Apostles), as well as floral and geometric motifs.

Today, the Early Christian Necropolis of Pecs stands as an enduring testimony to the cultural and religious transformation of the Roman Empire, offering a tangible connection to the city’s ancient past.

The City Court of Pecs, standing on Szechenyi Square, is an elegant example of eclectic architecture designed by Imre Schlauch. Built in 1891, the building's history is deeply intertwined with the evolving functions of this central location. During the Ottoman era, the site hosted the bath of Pasha Gazi Kaseem, a reflection of the Turkish influence in the city. However, by 1722, it had been repurposed as a prison. Later, when Civic Casino shareholders acquired the land, a theatre was established, bringing a cultural flair to the area before it was ultimately demolished to make way for the City Court.

Szechenyi Square itself is the heart of Pecs, a focal point rich in history and surrounded by architectural gems such as the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, the City Hall, and the Baranya County Hall. The square's gentle slope enhances its dynamic urban layout, with grand facades contributing to the city's distinct charm. The presence of the City Court among these landmarks further underscores its significance in the historical and administrative landscape of Pecs.