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- Destinations
- Europe
- Hungary
- Eger
Eger
The name of Eger represents, for every Hungarian, the story of
determined patriotism, when the outnumbered heroic defenders in the
fortress, led by István Dobó, held out against the Turks in their
initial attack in 1552.
One of the country's oldest cities, full of Baroque architecture
and grand buildings, Eger has over 200 historical monuments,
including Eger Castle, the Copf-style Lyceum with a magnificent
frescoed library, the 14-sided, 128-foot (40m) minaret, a reminder
of almost 100 years of Turkish rule, and the Archbishop's Cathedral
containing the country's largest musical organ. The striking pink
and white structure on Dobó István Square is the twin-towered
Minorite Church, Hungary's most beautiful Baroque building.
The small town centre is a pedestrianised area that features
many brightly painted houses with iron balconies lining narrow,
twisting streets. Ornate lampposts and hanging baskets of flowers
decorate the cobbled lanes and squares and sculptures representing
the battle against the Turks are a proud reminder of the victorious
saga.
Eger sits at the centre of the wine-growing region of northern
Hungary. This enchanting town, along with its famous history, is
where the much-publicised Egri Bikavér, or Bull's Blood, has its
origins - the strong, fiery and spicy red wine that is
characteristic of the area. Wine growing has been part of its
history since the 11th century, started by the monks and continued
during the Turkish occupation as an important source of income for
the Turks. Wines can be tasted in the centuries-old wine cellars of
the Szépasszony Valley (Valley of the Pretty Woman) on the southern
edge of town.
Eger is a colourful town known not only for its history, mellow
charm and vineyards, but also for its thermal baths. Visitors
looking for a bit of time-out can unwind in the peaceful
Archbishop's Garden, a leafy park enclosing swimming pools and hot
Turkish baths.
Information & Facts
Language
Hungarian (Magyar) is the official language, but German
is widely spoken, especially in the areas close to the Austrian
border. English is spoken in tourist areas and most
hotels.
Money
Even though Hungary is part of the EU it does not use the Euro;
the official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Travellers
cheques are not widely favoured. Credit cards most accepted in the
country are AMEX, Diners Club, EnRoute, Euro/Mastercard, JCB and
Visa, and these can be used to withdraw cash from banks and ATMs
and to pay bills in hotels, restaurants and most shops. Banks
usually open between 8am and 4pm on weekdays and some are open on
Saturdays. ATMs and currency exchange machines are available in
towns and cities throughout the country. It is advisable to retain
exchange receipts for proof of legal currency exchange.