Kristóf Migazzi

Even if you don't know it, you can still see the traces of Archbishop-Bishop Kristóf Migazzi's sacrificial work on a tour of Vác. How is this possible? 

Kristóf Migazzi has played a major role in shaping the cityscape of today. During his time, the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady of Vác, the Theresianum, the present Town Hall, the Arch of Triumph, the Bishop's Palace, the Hospital of the Merciful, and the Seven Chapels were built. It is also interesting to note that the Bishop had a canal canalised, a street paved and united Vác with Vác in honour of the visit of Maria Theresa. 

During his 25 years in office, he has brought prosperity to the city, ensuring both its prosperity and the well-being of its inhabitants. 

Interesting facts about his time in government:

• He ordered all homeowners to sweep up the street in front of their houses on Saturdays
• He banned smoking pipes, punished swearing, interfered in the revelry and curbed the gambling addiction of the locals. 
• He was a guardian of morality, so he stopped the meetings of the House of Spinning.
• He set the price of the crops and did not allow his subjects to be exploited.
• He founded a hospital and two poorhouses.
• Fearing rabies, he ordered homeowners to keep only one dog, and butchers two, and to keep them tied up.
• It regulated the poor, only those who had become poor by bearing the burdens of the city and had received permission from the Holy See could be beggars. 
• Suspicious and disreputable persons were investigated and expelled from the city. 
• He gave examples of hop growing and silkworm breeding.

In recognition of the work of Bishop Kristóf Migazzi of Vác, the statue of Migazzi was unveiled and the Migazzi Memorial Awards were presented on 2 September 2017 in front of the Bishop's Palace.