Located on the Great Hungarian Plain. The second-largest city in Hungary and an important cultural, educational, and economic center of the region.
Well, Hungary is what it is: Budapest, then a long stretch of nothing, and Debrecen — a city as dull and colorless as a Calvinist wedding.
Perhaps the blame lies with this branch of the Reformed Christians that dominates Debrecen, because there are many boring cities in Hungary, such as Sopron or Miskolc, but at least those are charming in their own Austro-Hungarian way.
Not even the municipal water park helps, as it pales in comparison to the recreational giants of Hajdúszoboszló and Sóstófürdő.
It’s surprising that Debrecen was, twice in its history, the capital of Hungary.
But is it worth visiting the capital of Hungarian Calvinists, if only on the way to Hortobágy?
No. Believe me, it’s not.
The city is famous for its beautiful landmarks, such as St. Lawrence Cathedral, built in Gothic style, and the Water Tower, which is a symbol of the city. Debrecen also boasts many museums, including the Déri Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Hajdúság Village Museum, all showcasing the history and culture of the region.
Debrecen is also an important cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals and events, such as the Flower Festival, the Culture Festival, and the Jazz Festival. The city is also known for performances by the folk ensemble Hajdú and the ballet company Debreceni Balett.
The Great Reformed Church of Debrecen
Built between 1805 and 1824. It is the largest Calvinist church in Hungary and one of the largest Protestant temples in Europe. Its style is simple yet majestic.
The Millennium Fountain
The Millennium Fountain in Debrecen is the largest musical fountain in Hungary. It was inaugurated in 2001 together with the renovated main square.
The fountain is decorated with a relief entitled Honfoglalás (“The Conquest”), depicting the arrival of the Hungarians, as well as the Turul bird.
The Small Reformed Church of Debrecen
Debreceni Református Kistemplom is one of several Reformed churches located in the center of Debrecen.
Until the 18th century, a simple wooden church stood on the site where the present church now rises. It burned down in 1719. On the site of the destroyed building, a stone structure was erected in the Baroque style, which was later remodeled in Neo-Romanesque style in 1876.
Nyíregyháza
The third-largest city in Hungary by area, Nyíregyháza has a population of approximately 120,000.
Sóstófürdő
A spa resort located in the northeastern part of Hungary, Sóstófürdő is best known for its hot mineral springs, which are believed to have beneficial health effects.
