Debrecen
The name of the town is first mentioned in written records in the 13th century. lt was given the rank of town more than 650 years ago, in 1361.
Debrecen was famous across Europe for its fairs and schools. lt is located at the cross-roads of major routes of transportation across the Carpathian Basin. Fitting to its role as a regional centre, it has excellent accessibility. From Budapest, it can be most easily reached via the motorway system. Railway and bus services connect the city with other regions in every direction.
Debrecen Airport is the only permanently open international airport in Hungary outside of Budapest. lt is connected to all major hubs of the continent with scheduled flights. The historic centre of Debrecen offers a fascinating number of attractions and sights of cultural significance. From the towers of the Great Reformed Church, one can enjoy a wonderful panorama of the city, while the top of the water tower opens up vistas onto the extensive Great Forest. Additional cultural attractions include the Truncated [Small] Church, the 150-year-old Csokonai Theatre, and St. Anna Cathedral. ln the library and museum of the Reformed College, founded in 1538, some artefacts unique even around the world are on display: nearly 17 thousand objects are held here, including a collection of applied arts showcasing the treasures of Hungarian silversmiths’ works and embroidery culture.
Debrecen is a vibrant and modern city, where one can never be bored. A range of cafés, ambient patios and dance clubs offer the chance of a pleasant evening out. From early spring into late autumn, one music festival is followed by the next.
The services of Aquaticum Spa and Adventure Water Park, based on the thermal water, offer relaxation and thrills alike. Additional venues promising a pleasant time are the Great Forest area with its outdoor theatre, the Mist Theatre fountain, and the “Békás” [Froggy] Pond. lt is this area also where Campus Festival, attracting approximately 100 thousand visitors each year, as well as the multiday events of the Wine Carnival and the Jazz Festival, also with crowds in the thousands, are held. Hungary’s largest student club, called Hall, was recently opened within the building of “Nagyerdei” Stadium, which is the venue for spectacular, exciting concerts.
The largest event of Debrecen, known across Europe, is the Flower Festival. The procession of the colourful flower floats and dance groups creates a real sense of carnivals. Carnival Night, fireworks, street party and spectacular 30 mapping projections on buildings fascinate the visitors arriving for the festival week each year. Located in the proximity of Debrecen, we can find the UNESCO World Heritage site Hortobágy, as well as the magical Tisza River, but the North Hungarian wine region, with its own special values, can also be reached easily from here.
