Hungary is continuing with its National Castle and Forts Program this year, with reconstruction plans for 15 forts and 19 castles underway in an effort to preserve the country’s cultural history, boost local communities and draw tourists.
The projects are being carried out a cost of 60 billion forints (€180 million) from both the national budget and European Union funds.
The first phase of the program – a comprehensive archeological survey of the sites in question – was completed last year and many projects are now in the actual construction phase.
In addition to restoring these national heritage sites to their former glory, the program also aims to add new functions to them, including hospitality options, wellness services and space for events – all functions that are in line with the best practices in European and global heritage management.
The majority of these monuments are in or near rural areas, where their reconstruction could also boost the local economy through increased domestic and international tourism.
The program also aims to promote these touristic attractions in a unified way and offer longer tours to foreign visitors, who would otherwise only spend a couple of days in the country.
According to the schedule, the reconstruction of ten castles and forts will be completed this year, including the unique monastery and castle complex in Oroszlány in central Hungary.
Title image: The reconstruction of the Károlyi castle in Füzérradvány, northeastern Hungary (source: nkvp.hu)
