Outrageous: Hungarian government gives away historical castles to international corporations?

After the renovation of numerous historical Hungarian castles, the government plans to introduce a Castle Adoption Programme, inviting large internationally-backed corporations to participate. János Lázár believes this approach is crucial for ensuring the proper maintenance of these castles. In the coming days, the government will discuss a proposal regarding this programme.

Adopt a Hungarian castle?

As Index reported, the Hungarian government aims to initiate an adoption programme for historical castles, citing the significant influx of tourists to these fortresses, emphasising the need for their adequate upkeep. For instance, the Keszthely Castle complex attracted some 260,000 visitors this year, proving that there is a great need for the well-organised operation and maintenance of these buildings. Among many, the programme would put the following castles up for adoption: Festetics Castle in Keszthely, Széchenyi Castle in Nagycenk, Tisza Castle in Geszt and the Esterházy Castle in Fertőd. Some of these castles are currently undergoing renovation and are slated to open to the public in 2024. What these strongholds have in common is that they hold great significance for national heritage and Hungarian history, coupled with outstanding architectural quality.

Dividing the castles into three parts

According to János Lázár, a Member of the National Assembly of Hungary, these historic fortresses would be categorised into three parts. The Hungarian National Asset Management Inc. (MNV) would oversee one portion of the building complexes, integrating the operation and maintenance of the castles into MNV’s responsibilities. The state intends to retain control over another section of the buildings through the management and organisation of the National Heritage Protection Development Non-profit Ltd (NÖF). Finally, the government aims to initiate the Castle Adoption Programme for the remaining portion.

As Lázár stated, the government seeks to offer these historically significant buildings to prominent Hungarian companies with international backgrounds, such as OTP, MOL or Richter. He added that the aim of this programme is twofold. The adopter would have to ensure that all Hungarians have access to these castles. Moreover, it is the adopter’s responsibility to “maintain and enhance these building by reinvesting substantial profits”.

Further projects

The government anticipates that the adoption programme will catalyse additional development and projects. János Lázár said:

We urge these Hungarian companies, which we have made successful, not only to distribute profits to shareholders in the form of dividends but also to take responsibility for the preservation of these historic buildings for the public good. This is, in fact, a continuation of the National Castle Programme.

Furthermore, Lázár envisions Keszthely and its environs as pivotal in Hungarian tourism. The government aims to make the town attractive both with and without tourists. The Hungarian Tourism Agency (MTÜ) is actively working towards this objective, prioritising the development of Keszthely and Hévíz. Significant investments are in the planning stages, including the relaunch of the two-lane motorway expansion of the 76 road next year, connecting Zalaegerszeg to the M7 motorway. This HUF 400 billion (EUR 1 billion) investment could become one of Hungary’s most substantial transport investments.