Traditions
When it comes to traditions, rich folk heritage and unconventional customs characterize Hungary the most.
The architecture is rather unique in many ways. Different architectural styles can be discovered in all towns and villages. In the countryside, there are folk houses and their main purpose is to preserve and present local culture from the past. In order to showcase the traditional and authentic houses, open-air village museums were created. Visiting these sites, takes the tourist truly back in time and allows a glimpse into the life of the earlier residents. Some of the open-air museums listed:
- Skanzen near Szentendre http://www.skanzen.hu/en
- Hollókő Village Museum https://www.holloko.hu/en/info/sights-and-services/museums/village-museum.html
- Sóstó Village Museum https://nyiregyhaza.info.hu/en/latnivalok/sostoi-muzeumfalu
- National Heritage Park in Ópusztaszer https://opusztaszer.hu/en/
- Göcsej Village Museum https://gocsejiskanzen.hu/english-village-museum
The craftsmanship is unmatched and varies across the country. From special embroidery and beautifully decorated pottery to detailed wood carvings, every single piece is a work of art made with great professional competence rooted from the past. Just to name a few stunning handcrafted objects: Matyó and Kalocsa embroidery, black pottery of Mohács, Herend Porcelain, Halas lacework.
Hungarian customs are one of a kind and are still practiced today. For example: Busójárás carnival season, during which people dress up in scary costumes, light fires and make as much noise as possible to scare winter away. Another typical tradition takes place at Easter, when boys sprinkle girls with water or perfume to keep them from “fading away”. Back in the day, buckets of cold water were used instead. During this practice, boys are telling specific poems and in exchange, they receive hand-painted or chocolate easter eggs.
