Pécs

The Borderless City

There is a corner in the world where the message of a Renaissance man, Janus Pannonius is still alive in the hearts of people. Right in the middle of Europe, at the gate to the Balkans the almond trees of the Mediterranean region burst into blossom as early as winter time and symbolize the cultural and artistic boom that is characteristic only of this region.

This corner of the world is Pécs. This place is a workshop for those longing for knowledge, a Canaan for travellers and the centre of the world for the local residents. In 2010 Pécs will be the European Capital of Culture.

The cultural, artistic and intellectual heritage of the city, the traditions of its ethnic minorities and its geographical location and environment make Pécs one of the most exciting cities of Hungary. This is a place where we can discover traces of the Turkish rule while wandering around the mementos of Christian culture.

The traditional Zsolnay family established a porcelain factory here that still operates in the city. Numerous Hungarian artists lived and worked in Pécs and the works of Vasarely, Csontváry and Amerigo Tot are displayed in the form of permanent exhibitions.

The early Christian cemetery, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, the Pécs National Theatre Festival, the enchanting restaurants, the Mediterranean climate are but a few things that make this city on the gentle slopes of the Mecsek Hills so attractive.

Pécs is getting ready for its Renaissance. The Borderless City wishes to share its treasures with the world. In 2010 it will revive every bit as a new capital of culture. Its parks, squares, its modern cultural quarter and concert hall will create new values and transmit the ideas of Janus Pannonius...