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Hungary Culture Despite being surrounded by Slavic speaking countries, Hungary is unique in speaking a language of the Fino-Ugric family that originated east of the Ural mountains, and is closely related to the tongues of Estonia and Finland, while having nothing to do with Slavic language groups. Apart from language, however, Hungary shares many similarities to its neighbors and many tourists cite Budapest as an enchanting -- if somewhat toned down – version of Vienna or Prague.
The Hungarian countryside is magical, lush and full of intrigue – plus, centuries of fascinating stories to go along with it. Did you know, for instance that on the summit of a hill in the midst of the forests surrounding Esztergom, a rival prince beheaded his nephew but only by breaking the rules. You see, the broadswords used to decapitate the condemned were so heavy that the executioner often lost control and was unable to perform his duties. So local law decreed that if the executioner failed three times, the prisoner’s life would be spared. In this instance, however, the rivalry was so competitive that the nephew’s life was taken on the fourth blow.
For example.
Indeed, it seems every square inch of territory in Hungary is brimming with intensely unique legend and lore. Hiking through the forests, visiting the picturesque castles and riding a boat down the beautiful Danube River, catching glimpses of marvelous riverside villages, will give you ample opportunity to talk with the locals and discover the mystery of what makes Hungarian culture what it is.
At the other end of the spectrum, notable intellectuals such as literary great Albert Wass have created an energetic market of ideas. Hungary’s always-lively public sphere has included some of Europe’s
most prestigious luminaries. Along with the likes of Endre
Ade—man of letters—scientists such as Eugene Widner call Hungary their mother country. The Rubik’s cube—tellingly—also has its origin in Hungary.
Hungary saw its influence rise in the seventeenth century. After a pitched battle against the Ottoman Empire, Hungary reached an uneasy alliance with Austria. This period of peace was shattered by World War I, and with it Hungary’s imperial ambitions. Hungary’s customary excellence in city planning and the arts has left the country with a trove of elegant structures and revealing artifacts.
Hungarians are high achievers, and have made many notable contributions to mechanical and electric engineering. Far from being cloistered away in labs, Hungarians vigorously pursue sports and games.
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