Welcome to a journey that will transport you straight into the pages of a Hungarian fairytale! Nestled in the heart of Szekesfehervar, Bory Castle awaits your discovery. This guide will serve as your magical map, revealing all the nooks and crannies of this architectural marvel. We will delve into the rich history that permeates its walls, admire the stunning blend of styles that give this castle its unique charm, and explore the lush gardens that surround it. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just an adventurer seeking a memorable day trip from Budapest, Bory Castle has a treasure trove of experiences in store for you. Let’s embark on this journey together!
A little bit of history about Bory Castle
This beautiful castle in Szekesfehervar holds a rich and fascinating history. Originally built in the early twentieth century, it was the brainchild of architect Jenő Bory. The castle showcases Bory’s love for the versatile material concrete, particularly quartz concrete, which can be seen in the door and window frames, columns, domes, balustrades, staircases, fountains, pools, and statues throughout the castle. Inside, you’ll also find an impressive collection of contemporary artworks, including sculptures and paintings by Bory himself and his wife, Ilona Komócsin. Today, the castle is managed and cared for by Bory’s descendants, who work tirelessly to preserve its legacy. A must-visit for history and art enthusiasts alike, Bory Castle stands as a testament to the innovative spirit and creative vision of its founder.
A few interesting facts about the Castle
So, before you visit the castle, which will definitely keep you interested for quite a while, it’s a good idea to get a few facts straight. This way, you already know a thing or two before your visit, and that’s an advantage, because it will open your eyes to different things.
- Unique Construction: Bory Castle, also known as the “Castle of Heroes,” was not built by professional architects or construction workers. It was solely constructed by Hungarian sculptor Jenő Bory himself, with the help of his family and friends. This unconventional approach gives the castle its distinct character and adds to its charm.
- Symbolic Highlights: Bory Castle is adorned with numerous statues and sculptures, both inside and outside. These sculptures hold symbolic meaning and represent various aspects of life, including eternal love, family, and human connection. The castle serves as a testament to Jenő Bory’s passion for art and his desire to infuse it into every corner of the property.
- Innovative Use of Concrete: During the early 20th century, Jenő Bory was a pioneer in using concrete as a building material in Hungary. He extensively used a specific type of concrete called quartz concrete, which can be found throughout the castle. This innovative approach showcased his forward-thinking mindset and his desire to experiment with new materials.
- Family-owned and Managed: Bory Castle is currently owned and managed by Jenő Bory’s descendants. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the castle remains under the diligent care and hard work of the family. Their dedication ensures that visitors can experience the castle’s unique ambiance and learn about its rich history.
- Artistic Abode: Bory Castle is not just a historical site; it also serves as a showcase for contemporary artworks. The castle houses a studio gallery where visitors can admire sculptures and paintings, including those created by Jenő Bory himself and his wife, Ilona Komócsin. This creative space adds an artistic touch to the castle, providing a comprehensive experience for art enthusiasts.
How to get to Bory Castle (from Budapest)
Let’s dive into the specifics of your visit.
First, getting there. There are two main methods of getting to Bory Castle.
If you’re coming from Budapest and you don’t have your own vehicle, then catching a train is the way to go. The option to drive there by car, is something you can do from anywhere, but since most travellers will be coming from Budapest, we’ll describe that road.
Address
Máriavölgy 54, 8000 Székesfehérvár
By Train (recommended)
The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) operates regular direct trains from Budapest to Székesfehérvár. The journey takes approximately an hour, offering a comfortable and scenic ride. The Székesfehérvár railway station is conveniently located, making it easy to reach Bory Castle either on foot or by local transportation.
Own Vehicle (recommended)
Szákesfehérvár is about 65 kilometers west of Budapest. If you choose to drive, take the M7 motorway, the main route connecting the two cities. The journey should take around an hour, depending on traffic. Once in Székesfehérvár, follow the signs to Bory Castle. There’s available parking nearby for visitors.
How to get in?
Ticket prices and opening hours for attractions tend to change over time. I noticed that the price has gone up since we last visited. So, the safest way to provide you with the right information, is to include a link to the official website.
Here, you can find the official opening hours and ticket prices for the castle.
What to see at Bory Castle
Bory Castle in Szekesfehervar consists of different parts. The creator had something in his mind which each stone, each statue, and each gateway he created. So, we tried to divde this article into some of these seperate parts as well. But, we added a few things that caught our attention or that we liked a lot.
We took so many pictures while we were there, so I hope you enjoy this journey!
The first sight and front yard
Bory Castle’s front yard is a sight to behold. As you approach the castle in Mária Valley, the magnificent towers can be seen from afar, setting the tone for a romantic and enchanting experience. Stepping through the gate into the garden, you are greeted by a breathtaking mockup of the castle itself. Take your time here, as it offers a unique perspective of the castle that cannot be seen elsewhere. The garden seamlessly blends with the castle, with trees, bushes, fountains, and ponds creating a lively atmosphere on the terraces and in the courts. Amidst the flourishing greenery, statues made of Bory’s durable quarts concrete can be found, standing as timeless pieces of art.
Artist Gallery
The Art Gallery at Bory Castle consists of 4 parts. We didn’t take much time in these rooms and only later discovered there was so much to see.
These four rooms are filled with different types of art and it’s worth to take a minute to step inside and discover what’s there:
- Fireplace room
- Radio room
- Atelier
- Yellow room
Hundred Pillared Courtyard
The Hundred Pillared Courtyard is located downstairs. As you enter through the castle gate, you’ll be greeted by a picturesque scene that truly feels like the courtyard of a genuine castle. Above you, a colossal rusty sword, symbolizing the “right of the sword,” hangs overhead, reminiscent of ancient times.
The courtyard is adorned with meticulously trimmed plants and a charming fountain at its center. This delightful green area invites you to take a moment of respite, offering a tranquil setting to appreciate the statues along the walls. With its 103 pillars supporting the arcuate corridors, the Hundred Pillared Courtyard truly brings the castle experience to life.
Pointed Tower
The Pointed Tower, located near the art gallery, is also a must-see. To access the tower, you can either turn left and pass through the passage under the residential tower and the Hundred Pillared Courtyard, or turn right and walk through the Elephant Garden. As you make your way up to the top, you get breathtaking views of the town and surroundings, but also an up-close aerial sight of the castle itself.
From different floors of the tower, you can explore various attractions. The first floor features a historical arcade, the second floor boasts a balcony, and the fourth floor is where the tower itself is situated. On a clear day, you can enjoy panoramic views of not only the town but also the Vértes and Bakony Mountains.
One of the highlights within the Pointed Tower is the Guardroom, located at the bottom. Here, you can find intriguing pieces such as a torso of Saint Sebastian, believed to be made of painted wood from the late 18th century. Additionally, you can marvel at a cast copy of Bory’s Ecce Homo, created in 1922. This life-sized, tortured Christ figure is uniquely crafted with tough and lumpish shapes, showcasing Jenő Bory’s distinctive artistic style.
Moreover, the Pointed Tower provides a fantastic photo opportunity. Through the intricate ornaments and details, you can capture stunning shots that showcase the true essence and grandeur of this historical landmark. Don’t miss out on this chance to document your visit and create lifelong memories at the Pointed Tower.
Flag Tower (Have a look at the staircase)
The Flag Tower is a remarkable architectural masterpiece. Its staircase is a true masterpiece. it has been photographed by many, just like we photographed it! It has painted banisters which look like delicate lace, offering a great sight. Made of concrete, the tower is awe-inspiring even without colors, but the intricate decoration painted by Klára Bory adds a charm. On the first floor, the Vagyóczky Room, named after Bory’s colleague, houses a beautiful rose window and features Bory’s Horse Head sculpture, reminiscent of ancient Athenian art. This room also serves as a venue for seasonal exhibitions, adding to the cultural allure of Bory Castle.
Historic Arcades with statues
The historic arcades of the Castle offer a majestic experience on the first floor. As you explore this area, you are greeted with a wide walking area adorned with historical statues that stand proudly above the arcades and castle walls. These statues, made of quartz concrete just like the castle walls, showcase a beautiful material oneness. The open-air setting allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this historical site. Additionally, inscriptions on the postaments provide interesting information about the gallery of historical characters, including kings of the Árpád dynasty, the Anjou kings, and other notable figures from history and literature such as Mátyás and Queen Izabella.
Statues looking out over the city
We particularly liked the statues looking over the city. Maybe that’s because they provide for such a great photo opportunity. They’re actually part of the Historic Arcades with the statues, but we put them in a different chapter as you should definitely not miss them!
Statues under de Historic Arcades
Underneath the historic arcades you’ll come across a grand collection of statues, preserving the original casts from public places and churches across the country. Underneath these arcades, you’ll find a display reminiscent of an artist’s studio, with old and new works placed without a systematic order. Among them, you’ll discover the cast copies of the Bishops Fountain figures, once located in front of the Bishop’s Palace.
The Chapel of Marital Love
Located under the middle part of the arcades in the center of Bory Castle, the Chapel of the Marital Love serves as a powerful symbol. At the heart of this chapel stands a full-size statue of Marital Love, modeled after the wife of the artist. The statue is seated within a curved space adorned with beautiful murals. Notably, the walls in front of the shrine feature a symmetrical composition called “Kiss,” which further accentuates the significance of the statue. Above the statue, a mural depicts yellow-colored ladies representing famous artists’ muses, including Mona Lisa, who turned yellow out of envy, as they are not loved as deeply as Bory’s wife.
How much time do you need for Bory Castle?
Depends on your interest for the Castle.
We spend quite some time in Bory Castle. There are so many things to see, in the open or more hidden away. If you don’t want to rush your visit, we’d suggest counting 3 to 4 hours for your visit. If you are in a rush and don’t have much time to spare, you might be able to do it in an hour, but you won’t have a relaxed visit then.
Are you intrigued by history and castles? Hungary has quite a few castles your can visit!
Have a look at the coolest castles to visit in Hungary or maybe even spend the night in one of these castle hotels!
Visit hidden gems in the area
While the Bory Castle is a spectacle in its own right, it’s worth mentioning that the surrounding region itself is a treasure trove of enchanting experiences. Whether it’s the sparkling waters of Lake Balaton, the bustling city vibes of Budapest, the tranquil beauty of Danube Bend or the historical allure of Szekesfehervar, you’ll find yourself captivated at every turn.
Szekesfehervar
Szekesfehervar, often referred to as the “City of Queens,” is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Hungary. This city is a perfect blend of historical grandeur and contemporary charm, with its breathtaking cathedrals, engrossing museums, and vibrant city center. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Szekesfehervar promises an unforgettable experience.
Lake Balaton
Imagine a serene lake surrounded by rolling hills and quaint villages – that’s Lake Balaton for you. Known as the “Hungarian Sea,” this lake offers a variety of water sports, relaxation spots, and delicious local cuisine. Whether it’s sailing, fishing, or simply soaking up the sun, Lake Balaton has something for everyone.
Budapest
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city that never sleeps. Its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and rich history make it a must-visit destination. Whether it’s exploring the Buda Castle, relaxing in one of the many thermal baths, or dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Budapest is sure to leave you spellbound.
Danube Bend
Danube Bend, with its majestic river, historic castles, and scenic hiking trails, is a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s a leisurely boat trip down the river, a visit to the ancient city of Visegrád, or a hike through the Pilis Mountains, Danube Bend offers an escape from the ordinary.
Explore the Danube Bend Cities: Visegrad, Esztergom, Szentendre, and Vac
Hungary Itinerary: Cities in Hungary
Planning a trip to Hungary? Apart from the destinations mentioned above, there are several other Hungarian cities that deserve a spot on your itinerary. Cities like Pécs, known for its Roman ruins; Eger, famous for its castle and wine; and Debrecen, home to the Great Church, offer unique experiences that showcase the best of Hungary. Remember, the real charm of Hungary lies not only in its popular destinations but also in its lesser-known cities.
Conclusion - Bory Caste: a must visit on a day trip from Budapest
In conclusion, Bory Castle is a captivating jewel that encapsulates the artistic spirit and architectural prowess of Hungary. Perfect for a day trip from Budapest, the castle offers a blend of historical richness and enchanting beauty to visitors. The intricate sculptures, peaceful courtyards, and towering spires tell stories of passion, creativity, and resilience. Immerse yourself in the castle’s unique artistic ambiance, and let the beauty of this self-built masterpiece inspire you. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a wanderer with an insatiable thirst for new experiences, Bory Castle is an unmissable gem in Hungary’s crown. Venture beyond the beaten path and discover this hidden treasure.
