In pursuit of legends and treasures: the chronicles of the Thury Castle

To learn more about the history of this wonderful building, let's first turn the wheel of time back! Towards the end of the 14th century, the expanding Újlaki-Kont clan wanted to build a castle in the area at the junction of the Bakony and Sárrét. The castle was soon completed: it was first mentioned in written records as a Palace in 1397. The great-grandson of the builder, Miklós Újlaki, later carried out significant reinforcements, thanks to which it became one of the most significant border castles in Transdanubia. After the Újlaki family, the building had several owners, and finally it became a royal castle. It was named after its first reeve, György Thury, who defended the castle against Turkish attacks with legendary heroism and became known as the "Lion of Transdanubia".

The fortress is a building with four corner towers with a regular floor plan typical of the knightly era. It gained its current form after several reconstructions. It was originally built as a castle, but its walls were strengthened during the border fortress period. In addition, you can discover medieval and renaissance features on it. It is worth admiring the fortress thoroughly, inside and out: walking around the centre of the town, it is striking, as the imposing, radiating castle almost dominates the centre of the town, so it is also an excellent photo subject.

Today, the Thury Castle is not only a historical monument, but also a lively cultural centre that offers many services to visitors. One of its most important attractions is the series of historical exhibitions, which present medieval life, the battles of the border fortress and the legendary story of György Thury. The castle also offers extremely exciting guided tours, in the framework of which you can gain a wealth of knowledge about the history of the castle. What is more: if you were to tour the castle with the infamous Lion of Transdanubia himself, that is, György Thury, you even have the opportunity to do that!

You can take part in a real time travel if you try the escape room created in the tower room, which has remained almost in its original state! In the framework of the programme, you can choose from two tasks, which are a challenge both for researchers of the secrets of the past and for lovers of logic puzzles.

Traditional events are also regularly organized within the walls of the castle, from May to October, for example, you can take part in historical archery, but you can also train yourself to be a varlet – if you manage to pass the seven tests! In the framework of the varlet-training, both young and old can compete, get to know and handle the weapons of the former castle defenders.

Every year in the second week of June, the wheel of time turns and the Middle Ages come alive! Traditional presentations, craft fairs and mouth-watering historical meals await visitors at the Palotai Muster. You can visit the secret mint of Miklós Újlaki, meet Paulina Zichy, the last mistress of the castle, and even watch the most famous siege of the castle up close! The range of programmes is enriched by varlet-training, tilting, lectures, weapon demonstrations, concerts, of course everything in the spirit of the era.

And if you are not scared by the fact that night falls among the medieval scenery, wander around the Thury Castle after sunset! During the Night of the Museums held in June, spectacular torchlight guided tours, traditional presentations and interactive programmes make the evening exciting. Children and adults alike will be fascinated by reminiscent historical presentations, musical performances and craft activities. The evening lights and the mystical atmosphere of the castle can provide an excellent summer evening experience for all ages!

The Thury Castle offers its visitors excellent programmes throughout the year, for which it is worth checking out the castle's website and social media pages!