TOP 10

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Top 10 attractions in Váci - Baroque main square of Váci

Baroque main square

Vác's Baroque Main Square is the most popular community space in Vác. The colourful buildings surrounding the square, the hourly music of the music pavilion in front of the Curia, the splashing fountain and the ruins of the former St Michael's Church will transport you to a special world. Sit out on the terraces of the square's pastry shops and restaurants and enjoy the Baroque square alongside the flavours. Every corner of the square holds wonders for you.

Danube-side boardwalk

Vác's waterfront promenades offer a wide range of activities. You can stroll around the walls of the medieval castle or visit the sculpture park, with picnic areas in the grassy areas. There are two playgrounds for the little ones, and you can also cycle along one of Hungary's longest promenades, with a cycle path along the way. Get to know the waterfront face of the city and enjoy the legendary panorama of the Danube in Vác.

Top 10 attractions in Váci - Danube-front promenade
Top 10 attractions in Váci - Arch of Triumph and Kolodko mini statue

Arc de Triomphe

Did you know that Vác is home to Hungary's only triumphal arch, one of the emblematic symbols of the city? The Stone Gate is the symbol of Vác, reminiscent of the Baroque era. The arch was built in just five months to honour the arrival of Maria Theresa, and is decorated with the symbols of the ruling family. There are many interesting legends associated with the Kőkapu in Vác, and a visit to the arch is a must on any tour of Vác.

 

 

 

Memento Mori

The discovery in 1994 of 264 naturally mummified human remains and an ossification chest containing the remains of 40 people in Vác attracted a lot of attention. The world-famous cultural treasure was discovered quite by chance in the crypt of the Church of the Whites in the main square during a renovation project. You can see part of the finds in the exhibition of the Ignác Tragor Museum. You'll be in for a thrilling experience - the story of how the mummies were found is fascinating!

Top 10 things to see in Vác - Memento Mori exhibition, the famous mummies of Vác
Top 10 attractions in Váci - Cathedral

Cathedral

Vác is a bishop's town, the centre of the Diocese of Vác. Vác's Assumption Cathedral is the fourth largest basilica in the country, and is impressive for its monumental size and Baroque interior. The cathedral, built in the 18th century, is the third major church in the city, the first on the site of the medieval castle and the second in the main square. The cathedral contains decorations and stones from the earlier churches.

 

 

 

Chapel of the Seven, Liget

The Seven Chapels and the grove in Vác offer a very special experience, with peace, quiet and fresh air all year round. The park of the grove, the church steeple of the Chapel of the Seven, and the paths leading to it are well-known stops for pilgrims and hikers. The lake, which promises fabulous relaxation and romantic moments, is fed by springs that flow from the side of the Chapel of the Seven Chapels hill. The springs are believed to have healing properties. 

Top 10 attractions in Váci - Seven Chapels pilgrimage site
Top 10 attractions in Váci - Sajdik Caricature Collection

Sajdik cartoon collection

Who wouldn't remember the great Ho-Ho-Ho fisherman, Arthur the Dumpling, or even Pom Pom's lovable character? Ferenc Sajdik, the Hungarian graphic artist and cartoonist, has an exhibition of his life's work where you can explore the city through the eyes of the artist. In the context of his ties to Vác, the exhibition also shows the visit of Maria Theresia to the town, the arrival of the first train to Vác or the birth of the poem "Ink Bottle" by Sándor Petőfi. A visit to this special "sajdic" world is a memorable experience for young and old alike.

 

 

 

Váci Castle

Did you know that Vác once had a castle? Unfortunately, it is now only a memory, having been destroyed during the Turkish occupation. Its surroundings are still full of legends, mysteries and wonders. Walking along the banks of the Danube, you can see the former castle wall with the statue of King Géza I. Here stood the church that the great king had built in accordance with his vows, and he himself was buried here. Archaeologists are still searching for the tomb of the monarch.

Top 10 attractions in Váci - Castle Wall
Bishop's Palace

Bishop's Palace

Did you know that the city's church centre is just a few minutes' walk from the main square? The Bishop's Palace of Vác is one of the emblematic symbols of Archbishop-Bishop Kristóf Migazzi's work in building the city. The 250-year-old neoclassical, baroque-style monument is part of the Diocese of Vác and is also the residence of the current bishop. The imposing two-storey building reopened its doors to visitors in August 2022, making for a wonderful heritage tour.

 

 

 

City Hall

Did you know that the town hall building is the result of the city-building work of Archbishop-Bishop Kristóf Migazzi? The building, which stands on the Baroque main square, was given its present appearance, along with the other buildings in the square, on the occasion of Maria Theresa's visit in 1764. Over the centuries, the town hall has served many functions, from a Turkish bath to a bookshop and library, and was for a time the place where people who had been arrested but were still awaiting trial were held. The restored baroque corridors of the town hall now house the works of the International Mobile MADI Museum.

Top 10 attractions in Váci - Town Hall
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