A Day Exploring Pécs, Hungary
A Taste of Hungary at Árkád Mall
My Pécs adventure kicked off at Árkád Mall, where I indulged in a classic Hungarian McDonald’s experience. While the fast-food chain might be a global staple, it was a curious way to start my exploration of this historic city. From the mall, I set off to discover Pécs’s charming old town.
A Day Exploring Pécs, Hungary - Table of Contents
- Beginning at the Árkád Mall
- Kossuth Square and the Pécs Synagogue
- Széchenyi Square
- Mosque of Pasha Qasim/Downtown Candlemas Church
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Pécs Barbican
- Király Street
- Video Highlights of My Day Exploring Pécs
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Kossuth Square and the Pécs Synagogue
Kossuth Square served as my starting point. Here, I visited the Pécs Synagogue, a significant Jewish heritage site. The synagogue’s architecture, though modest compared to some of Europe’s grander synagogues, is a testament to the city’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Széchenyi Square: Heart of Pécs
Széchenyi Square, the vibrant heart of Pécs, was my next destination.
Dominating the square is the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, now known as the Downtown Candlemas Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This iconic building is a striking blend of Islamic and Christian architecture, reflecting Pécs’s rich and complex history. Its transformation from a place of Muslim worship to a Christian church is a testament to the city’s enduring spirit. I purchased a combined ticket to explore both the mosque’s remnants and the church, offering a comprehensive look at the city’s religious heritage.
The Mosque of Pasha Qasim and the Downtown Candlemas Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Mosque of Pasha Qasim, now the Downtown Candlemas Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a captivating example of Ottoman architecture.
Its intricate details and rich history are still evident despite its conversion. Stepping inside, I was transported back centuries, imagining the space as a bustling place of worship under Ottoman rule. It’s a remarkable testament to Pécs’s multicultural past.
Originally, medallions would have said “Allah” and “Muhammad” as Muslims do not display images of people. Since the conversion, those medallions have been replaced by images of Jesus and other important figures in Christianity.
Another change that occurred is where the altar faces. In Islam, alters face Mecca. Christian altars typically face east or sometimes towards Jerusalem.
St. Stephen's Cathedral and Beyond
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its towering spires, is a must-see for any visitor to Pécs. I climbed one of its towers for panoramic city views, a truly rewarding experience. Nearby, the Early Christian Mosoleum offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past, a reminder of Pécs’s deep historical roots.
. I climbed one of its towers for panoramic city views, a truly rewarding experience. The view from the tower is the second-best view in Pécs behind the Pécs TV Tower.
The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive. I started my visit in the Crypt. The Crypt of the Pécs Cathedral full of beautiful arches and geometric patterns. After walking around the Crypt, I went into the main worship area of the Pécs Cathedral which featured stunning stained glass windows and ornate decorations.
A Walk on the Wild Side: Pécs Barbican
Venturing uphill, I reached the Pécs Barbican, a well-preserved remnant of the city’s fortifications. Standing on the Barbican walls, I could imagine the city’s past as a fortified settlement, protected from invaders.
Return to the City Center via Király Street
To conclude my exploration, I descended to Király Street, a lively shopping thoroughfare. The street’s charming atmosphere and array of shops made it a pleasant way to end the day.
Video Highlights of My Day Exploring Pécs
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