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In the wake of Greek heritage: from ancient culture to Tokaj
Szabó Sára
Greek heritage in everyday life
Perhaps it is not a novelty to anyone that Greek culture and science shaped the modern world in its fundaments. We owe laying the foundations of democracy, pioneering work in philosophy and science, and a wide variety of architectural styles to the ancient Greeks. Gastronomic treasures such as feta cheese, Mediterranean spices, and olive oil are still integral parts of our daily diet.
It is interesting that in 2020, olive oil was also produced in our country, at the 2HA Winery, from its own berries, which we previously reported on in the columns of Hello Hungary.
But the Greek heritage does not stop at architecture and philosophy. In many regions of Europe, we can find historical connections that are due to the activities of Greek traders and travellers. One such surprising and exciting place is Tokaj, located at the confluence of the Tisza and Bodrog rivers.
In the wake of Greek traders
Tokaj is known not only for its golden yellow Aszú wine, but also for the historical presence of Greek traders who settled in the 17th and 18th centuries. Recognizing the exceptional quality of Tokaj wine, Greek traders played an important role in establishing the wine’s international reputation. Through their network, they transported sweet Tokaj wines to the Balkans, Russia, and the courts of Western Europe, thereby contributing to the economic boom of the wine region.
The Greek traders contributed not only economically but also culturally to the development of Tokaj. In some towns, such as Miskolc and Eger, they built Greek Orthodox churches and founded schools, which enriched the cultural life of the local communities. Their innovations in the packaging and marketing of Tokaj wines laid the foundation for the wine region's success that continues to this day.
Greek heritage in Hungary
When visiting Tokaj, it is worth exploring the sites that preserve the legacy of the Greek traders. Some cellar systems and winemaking traditions still reflect this influence today. It is recommended to visit the organic winemaking Hétszőlő Estate, one of the oldest wineries in Tokaj, and the Disznókő Vineyard, widely known for its wines and impressive vineyards.
In addition to wine experiences, it is worth visiting the Tokaj Museum, where you can learn about the history of the wine region and the influence of the Greek traders. The Szerelmi Winery Row invites you to take romantic walks, where you can take part in wine tastings in traditional cellar systems.
In Miskolc and Eger, you can learn more about the history of the Greek community while visiting the Orthodox churches. The Greek cultural centres located next to the Rác Church, also known as the Greek Eastern Serbian Church, and the Miskolc Avas Reformed Church also provide valuable insight into the community's past. In addition to wine tours in the wine region, it is also worth participating in local gastronomic festivals, where the meeting of Hungarian and Greek flavours provides a special experience. During a local event or wine tasting, you can hear interesting stories about the influence of the Greek trader families and their heritage.
The story of Tokaj and the Greek traders is a great example of how the heritage of different cultures intertwines and leaves a lasting mark on different stages of human history. A visit to Tokaj is not only a wine cultural but also a historical journey through time, bringing the rich heritage of the Greeks closer to us.
