Hungary continues to be committed to opening as many border crossings with Slovakia as possible, Péter Szijjártó, the foreign minister, said on Friday, on completion of a new bridge spanning the River Ipoly between Drégelypalánk, in northern Hungary, and Slovakia’s Ipelske Predmostie (Ipolyhídvég).
The new bridge costing 2.9 billion forints (EUR 7.6m) was, the minister said, “a milestone” in Hungary’s national strategy programme, adding that building cooperation, especially with neighbouring countries, had been a key government priority since 2010.
Hungary has the longest common border with Slovakia, Szijjártó noted, adding that the 654km border section had only offered 22 crossing points back in 2010.
Following an agreement signed by the two countries in 2014, that number has doubled, Szijjártó said, calling these developments “a success story achieved by Hungary and Slovakia”.
Photo: MTI
Hungary, he said, was ready to continue building further bridges, roads, and railway lines connecting it to Slovakia. The government, he added, was looking forward to an upcoming official visit by Slovak PM Robert Fico next Tuesday, which would offer an opportunity for further talks on the subject.
Meanwhile, Szijjártó said Slovakia was Hungary’s third largest trading partner, with bilateral trade turnover exceeding a record 17 billion euros in 2022.
Photo: MTI
The new bridge replaces a 15th century that was destroyed in the second world war.
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Kunbaracs, located half an hour’s drive from Kecskemét, boasts one of the biggest attractions of the county: the Vörös Kastély (Red Castle). After 10 years, the castle is once again up for sale.
Modest beginnings
The oldest part of the building, the ground-floor vaulted hall, may have been built in the 1780s as a cattle or sheep stable, initially owned by the Teleki family. József Zeyk inherited the estate from the family in the early years of the 1860s. He mainly owned estates in Transylvania, so this was an unexpected addition to his wealth. However, the property didn’t remain in the possession of József Zeyk for long. In a military survey done in 1872, it was already mentioned as Tavaszi Manor.
From stable to castle
In the 1870s, the estate underwent major changes. Through the addition of an upper floor and the creation of new wings, what was once a stable became a proud castle. The year of the changes was most likely 1873, which is the engraving that marks the corridor wall on the ground floor.
The transformation not only included the completion of the upper floor but also the construction of tower-like protrusions on the southwest façade, giving the castle a unique appearance. Additionally, during this period, the two-winged door was created in the center of the main façade, above which a looming dome was added. Over time, the central tower of the building, which had undergone several renovations, was covered with a red minium plate, giving the castle its name, turizmus.com writes.
The castle in the 20th century
The first mention of the ‘Red Castle’ dates back to the 1910s, when it was under the ownership of Dr. Béla Kelemes. He carried out some major renovations in 1920. Most notable is the transformation of the previously open, domed entrance tower and the construction of two semi-circular staircases on either side of the new tower’s entrance doors.
The second half of the century brought some great changes in the history of the ‘Red Castle’. Ownerhip of the castle passed to the Michels family in 1948. Luckily, it was not nationalised in the socialist era, because the owners were of peasant origin and contributed significantly to the development of agriculture in the surrounding area.
However, the family decided to sell the building in 1979 to the Kunbaracs Agricultural Cooperative. The most beautiful room in the castle, the “knight’s hall” with its rib-vaulted ceiling served as a tractor storage and repair workshop during the era, with a thick layer of oil covering the floor. The building’s condition only deteriorated over time, and in 1991, even its roof caved in. Luckily, restoration began just in time, and by the 2000s, the castle was once again in its prime form.
Current standing
In 2010, a family from Pest County purchased the then-castle and transformed it into a lovely guesthouse. The marble-engraved inscription “Vörös Kastély”, which can still be seen on the façade of the mansion, welcomes guests to 9 guest rooms, three of which are furnished with period furniture. Complete comfort and entertainment of guests was also ensured by the installment of a swimming pool, a bathhouse by the lake, and a mini fitness room. Now, it stands as one of the most beautiful castles of Bács-Kiskun County. The 776-square-meter, 12-room castle is now on sale for HUF 765 million (EUR 2 million).
The premonstratensian church in Zsámbék, one of the most iconic and beautiful sacred buildings of medieval Hungarian church architecture, will be rebuilt.
It’s a well-known fact that few historical buildings survived the medieval age in Hungary. However, amidst the echoes of time, certain treasures persist. These include the churches in Ják and Lébény, the monumental former Premonstratensian cathedral in Ócsa, and the lovely church in Zsámbék. Albeit their historical impact is great, not all of the above were preserved in their original forms, let alone the Zsámbék Castle, which is often referred to as a ruin temple. However things are bound to change, thanks to the new developments.
The old church in Zsámbék
The Old Church and the Premonstratensian monastery, constructed circa 1220, stand as poignant remnants of Central European classic Gothic, preserving the charm of a bygone era. Originally fashioned in the Romanesque style, it underwent remodelling into the Gothic style, notwithstanding the objections of the Premonstratensian order. Nonetheless, the main body of the temple has endured unchanged through the centuries.
In 1753, the church suffered severe damage, writes HelloMagyar. Nearly one hundred and fifty years ensued before a dedicated professional took charge of its restoration. István Möller, a significant figure in Hungarian monument protection, initiated the restoration efforts in 1889, concentrating on the ruins of the three-aisled basilica. Contrary to initial expectations, the church was not reconstructed. István Möller, a true expert of monument preservation, assumed the responsibility of ensuring the temple’s enduring legacy. Approaching the project with a modern perspective, he handled the building’s remains in harmony with contemporary principles of heritage conservation. Despite four years of meticulous work, the restoration, completed in 1900, retained the church in its ruined state, preserving it as a testament to its post-earthquake condition.
However, in the present day, after nearly three centuries of decay and numerous unsuccessful interventions in recent decades, this irreplaceable monument threatens with collapse.
Remaking history
With the support of the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, the Municipality of Zsámbék has unveiled an open design competition, declaring the imperative to rebuild the Zsámbék Old Church. The former Romanesque structure, transformed into the Gothic style, no longer serves its original purpose. Nevertheless, it now fulfils a vital role in promoting its own historical significance. The entire Zsámbék ruin resonates with the essence of the 13th century, embodying the architectural spirit of the pre-Tatar invasion era.
Visitors exploring this site will discern the authentic 13th-century ambience in every facet of the building mass, from the intricately incorporated stones to the weathered mortar.
The competition for the renewal of the Zsámbék Old Church and its surroundings, announced by the Municipality of Zsámbék with the support of the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, has successfully concluded. A total of 17 entries were received, with the winning proposal by Közti Ltd charting a course for the church’s reconstruction through brick supplementation. The plan includes a specific proposal for concealing the towers, demonstrating a meticulous approach and ensuring collaborative efforts between the restorer and the architect.
Monument preservation
According to their statement, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology is committed to strengthening monument protection. To this end, they have enlisted a state secretariat to supervise monument preservation and have been formulating a concept aimed at ensuring the long-term survival of historic buildings. The rebuilding of the Zsámbék Church aligns with this commitment, echoing successful restoration efforts in churches like Ják, Lébény and Ócsa. This overarching concept seeks to underscore the significance of historical monuments, offering visitors a glimpse into the realm of medieval Hungarian architecture.
Hopefully, the renovations will be approached with due consideration for the sacred character of the grounds, ensuring that the temple’s historical significance will not be lost to ravages of time and shabby workmanship.
Should all proceed as planned, the return of the premonstratensian monks to the monastery post-renovation would mark a significant milestone. Visitors, in turn, would have the opportunity to experience the Zsámbék Church anew, as if it were being unveiled for the first time.
Read more about historical castles in Hungary HERE.
Read about forgotten historical sites in Hungary HERE.
Opposition LMP has submitted another referendum question in an effort to prevent the government from assigning certain construction project a status of strategic importance, LMP deputy group leader Antal Csárdi told a press conference on Friday.
Last year, the National Election Committee thwarted a referendum proposal submitted by LMP, which was aimed at scrapping a law under which key government projects could be expedited. The party appealed against the committee decision to the supreme court, which decided in LMP’s favour and scrapped the committee ruling.
Ruling Fidesz then scrapped the contested law, but “packed practically all its stipulations” into another bill aimed to change the construction law, Csárdi said, adding that his party’s aim was to remove all proposed stipulations aimed to expedite such government projects.
The new sports hall of Hungary has been unveiled, and it’s nothing short of spectacular, as showcased in a stunning video.
The state-of-the-art sports hall will be able to accommodate 20-25 community sports, serving as the future home for the Hydro Fehérvár AV19 ice hockey team. According to Magyar Építők, the hall boasts a seating capacity of 6,000 for ice hockey matches and can expand to host up to 8,000 enthusiastic spectators for concerts and various events.
Get a glimpse of the cutting-edge sports centre of Székesfehérvár in the video below, presented by Market Építő Plc.
The Ministry of Construction and Transport announced that thirty-nine bridges and four viaducts will be built on the new M76 motorway.
The new M76 motorway will link Zalaegerszeg to the Hungarian motorway network. Previously, this was planned to cost 170 billion forints (EUR 442,943,840), but now János Lázár, Minister of Construction and Transport, has already talked of 400 billion forints (EUR 1,042,220,800). If this is indeed the final figure, it will be by far the most expensive motorway project in Hungary in terms of price per kilometre.
However, the Ministry’s recent statement stresses that the M76 “will not be the most expensive motorway in Hungary, but the most modern Hungarian expressway to be built in the most difficult terrain ever”.
This is confirmed by the fact that the 31-kilometre motorway would include thirty-nine bridges and four viaducts. The project will also include a four-lane link to Keszthely and a link to the airport in Sármellék.
According to ÉKM, the M76 will not only be a section connecting Zalaegerszeg to the M7 motorway, but also a so-called “smart road”. It will include a movable baffle system, the Rolling Barrier “roller barrier” protection system, the Blue System “wire rope barrier” system, a motorised anti-skid system, a head-on warning system, as well as smart lighting, solar panels, real-time sensors and automatic de-icing, telex.hu reports.
Read more:
Budapest-Vienna motorway to be more easily accessible – PHOTOS
The construction of the Bridge of National Unity in Sátoraljaújhely is reaching its final stages, promising to be a groundbreaking addition to the region. This pedestrian suspension bridge, initiated at the end of 2021, will offer an unprecedented view of the city and mountains. The attraction will also elevate the local tourism experience.
A record-breaking project
According to 24.hu, the ambitious project, with a total cost of HUF 4 billion (approximately EUR 10 million), is set to break records with its impressive specifications. Spanning 80 meters above the ground, the Bridge of National Unity (Nemzeti Összetartozás Hídja) aims to secure its place as a world record-holder in its category. Moreover, extending over 700 meters in length, it stands as an ambitious engineering marvel.
Towards completion: A glimpse of the future
As the days pass, the completion of the walkway of the Bridge of National Unity draws near. Positioned between Szár-hegy and Várhegy, this new tourist attraction is anticipated to open its doors to the public in the coming spring. The development promises a transformative experience for both tourists and the local population.
The city’s radio station, Zemplén FM, shared the exciting news on their Facebook page. Their post expressed enthusiasm for the impending unveiling of this remarkable structure. The walkway, nearly finished, will soon provide an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscapes.
Enhancing the experience
Hundreds of meters of stair gratings have been meticulously placed on the support elements, ensuring the safety and accessibility of the bridge. Notably, the section where the bridge reaches its zenith, 82 meters above the Május (May) Creek, will feature special glass elements. These additions are designed to enhance the overall experience, creating a truly immersive and breathtaking atmosphere.
Source: FB/Zemplén FM
Source: FB/Zemplén FM
A government-backed investment
The HUF 4 billion (approximately EUR 10 million) investment is part of the larger Tokaj-Zemplén Development Programme that the government supports financially. This strategic initiative aims to boost local infrastructure and tourism, with the Bridge of National Unity standing out as a flagship project.
Anticipating the inauguration
If everything goes according to plan, they plan to inaugurate the suspension bridge in the upcoming spring of 2024. This significant milestone marks the realisation of a vision that began in 2021. It showcases the region’s commitment to innovation and progress.
For more construction related articles, explore the detailed insights into the construction of Hungary’s southernmost Danube bridge in our article HERE.
Deputy mayor’s insights
Dénes Dankó, the deputy mayor, emphasised the spectacular nature of the ongoing construction. He highlighted that after the visible completion of the current phase, more tasks remain behind the scenes until spring. Additionally, Dankó shared that the bridge will accommodate two-way traffic, further contributing to the connectivity and accessibility of the region.
As the completion of the Bridge of National Unity in Sátoraljaújhely approaches, anticipation intensifies. The transformative impact it will have on tourism is becoming increasingly evident. Furthermore, experts anticipate that the project will shape local perspectives and actively contribute to the overall identity of the region. The bridge is not merely a physical structure; it is a symbol of unity and progress. It is nearly ready to leave a lasting impact on the city and its surroundings.
This year has been rough on the construction industry, and the prospects are not looking good. This October, the industry actually experienced a slight increase, so what could be wrong?
What happened?
At first glance, things might not seem so bleak, since October was only the second time this year when production did not decrease. However, that’s not as good of a news as you’d first believe. According to an article written by G7, October brought an increase in production compared to last year, even if it was minimal. It was still something quite unheard of in a while. In the past one and a half year, this was only the fourth month to bring an expansion to the table.
The first ten months of 2023 dropped production by a stunning 4,2 percent all together. To put into numbers, the all-encompassing production was roughly HUF 660 billion (EUR 1,7 billion). Out of this around HUF 400 billion (or a little more than EUR 1 billion) went into construction of buildings and the leftover amount of HUF 260 billion (around EUR 680 million) was used for constructions other than buildings. This amount has actually decreased in the past time period.
Concerning projections
In value, the sector’s order backlog makes up for HUF 2200 billion (EUR 5,7 billion). This means a drastic drop in quantity: drastic meaning more than 30 percent contrasted with the numbers of the same month of last year. The actual statistics are not that shocking, but the truly very concerning part of it are the projections based on them. Compared to the past two years, the current value is the lowest in memory. Especially once the drastic price hikes are taken into account, which drove up the market by a shocking 40 percent.
The consequences
The construction industry’s struggles have started to spread down to the suppliers and manufacturers. The prices are being felt by everybody, and are perfectly represented by the Icarus fall of buildings, which have dropped from their historical high of 27 percent to a spectacular low of 7 and a half percent.
Thanks to drops such as these, prices have started caving in too. According to the Hungarian Association of Building Materials and Building Products, there has typically been a significant price drop in fired ceramic brick and tile products and an even greater decline in EPS-based thermal insulation materials.
Demand has fallen too. Some products experienced more than a 30 percent fall, whereas brick and tile product prices neared a frightening 50 percent decline. Perhaps this fall was behind the closing of all of the brick factories in the country in the autumn? The decline is in part thanks to cost increases and the governmental additional burden also contributed to the doors closing of the factories.
Reactions
Even at the end of 2022, industry experts were talking about a slowing demand. However the current situation in some segments can only be called slowing down if one is a snail. For example, the construction of newly built apartments has essentially come to a standstill.
Residential renovations are still ongoing, but not for long if the decreasing trends are to continue. Rising interest rates, reduced support, and decreasing purchasing power are slowing things down in this sector as well. Add to this the restrained state budget due to the held-back EU funds. There have been some larger projects in the industrial investment sector, which have kept things going for the industry so far.
What can we expect?
The future looks bleak for the construction industry. The number of building permits for new homes has decreased significantly. Perhaps a change can be brought by reductions in interest rates and state support programs. The industry actors are counting on the Family Home Creation Discount (CSOK Plus) and the Residential Building Modernisation Program to bring about a turn for the better.
Budapest’s City Assembly on Wednesday voted in support of a green and sustainable mixed-use real estate development in the Rakosrendezo area of the capital, with a view to addressing a “housing crisis” and expanding urban green spaces.
The declaration of support states that the brownfield investment “responds to the urban development challenges of the 21st century”.
The proposal by (Socialist) mayor of the Zugló district, Csaba Horváth, was backed unanimously in the absence of Fidesz-Christian Democrat representatives.
It also states that the development should be climate neutral.
At least 10,000 affordable homes must be built and the World Heritage status of the banks of the River Danube, the Buda Castle District and Andrassy Boulevard should not be put in jeopardy, it says, adding that buildings must be no taller than 90 meters.
Further, the government or the investor should provide the funds for the renovation and extension of Metro 1, the extention of Metro 4, and the construction of overpasses.
They must also finance the complete revitalisation of the Rakos stream, the creation of at least 30 hectares of green space, including the creation of a new public park, the declaration states.
Thanks to a recent wave of reconstruction, all three castles have born anew. Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit at Gyula, uncover the clandestine history of the Nádasdy family, or take a glimpse into the life of a great Hungarian painter – and better yet, experience all three!
Celebrate Christmas at the Almásy Castle in Gyula!
This year, Gyula’s iconic castle will host its Advent programme, the Magical Christmas Castle. Visitors can relish the festive atmosphere amid magical surroundings, with everything a Christmas fair could offer and more! The Almásy Castle ‘s Christmas tree will be exhibited in the winter garden, alongside a terrain model depicting a snow-covered town and a giant nutcracker.
During Advent Saturdays, guests can partake in various workshops – from crafting gingerbread houses to fashioning pine decorations, Advent wreaths and Grinch trees. Moreover, they can receive guidance in preparing sauces for roasted meats and wrapping gifts, all within the castle’s walls.
The castle park will host various events, including theatre performances and concerts. On 23rd December, the Erkel Ferenc Mixed Choir will deliver a special Christmas performance. Throughout this period, a shoebox fundraiser will also take place.
Source: Gyulai Almásy-Kastély Látogatóközpont
Discover the secrets of the Nádasdy Castle!
This castle hides many secrets, from its roof to the library and the charming English garden with its pond and waterfall. Delve into the past of the Nádasdy family, commissioned by Ferenc Nádasdy and his wife, Ilona Zichy, completed in 1876 and inhabited by the family until World War II.
Initially, the building was constructed by István Linzbauer, but the master architect could not finish the castle, so the work was taken over by Alajos Hauszmann, whose influence is evident in the Ancestors’ Hall, showcasing life-size family portraits. Another noteworthy addition by Hauszmann is the impressive library, captivating visitors with intricate bookshelves, columns, and paneling.
Nádasdy Castle offers a tour titled “The Castle of Legends,” guiding visitors through the entire castle to explore the history of the renowned family and everyday life in that bygone era.
Source: Nádasdladány, Nádasdy-kastély – hivatalos
Peek into the life of one of the greatest Hungarian painters at the Benczúr Manor!
After three years of extensive renovations, Benczúr Manor is reopening its doors on the 1st of December, writes turizmus.com. Thanks to over one billion HUF (EUR 2,630,759) in non-refundable European Union funds, the manor has been restored to its original state as part of the National Castle Programme and National Fortress Programme, complete with a new permanent exhibition.
Within the renovated spaces, 18 original Benczúr paintings, relics, drapes, reproductions, photos and short films guide visitors through the manor and the life of the famous painter. Gyula Benczúr’s love for Nógrád landscapes inspired him to buy and reconstruct this manor in his old age, even converting the old granary into a separate studio.
Mostly serving as a summer residence and studio, the building later functioned as a school, council house and cultural centre after nationalisation. The intense use over the years led to deterioration, but luckily EU funds saved this crucial piece of Hungarian cultural history. The reconstruction also added features to better accommodate a tourist complex showcasing Gyula Benczúr’s life.
New service areas, including a reception area, cloakroom, café, gift shop and renovated restrooms, have been introduced. The manor’s surroundings have been revitalised, and a visitor parking lot has been established. The building is now prepared to welcome curious souls seeking a culturally refreshing insight into the life of one of Hungary’s greatest painters.
Source: FB @travellina.hu
Read about another Hungarian castle that opened this December HERE.
Amidst the echoes of history and the resilience of heritage, Hungary’s Buda Castle Palace stands poised for a breathtaking transformation. At the heart of this restoration lies the revival of the Buffet Gallery, a once-magnificent banqueting hall.
The grandeur that rivalled Versailles
Designed by Alajos Hauszmann in the early 20th century, the Buffet Gallery was an integral part of the new north wing of the Royal Palace, Lelépőwrites. Its neo-Baroque Art Nouveau exteriors and breathtaking interiors in Buildings A and B rivalled the grandeur of Vienna’s Hofburg. Notably, its enfilade, a series of interconnecting halls, was the second longest in Europe, surpassed only by the Palace of Versailles. Guests were welcomed into the capital’s largest ballroom through a covered courtyard, arriving from St George’s Square. Situated on the Danube side, the Banqueting Hall of the Buffet Gallery boasted a captivating space for social gatherings. Three large doors seamlessly connected it to the ballroom, creating a fluid space for guests. Additionally, glazed pavilions, designed by Gyula Jungfer, adorned the terrace, facilitating the movement of waiters through spiral staircases.
Source: FB/Nemzeti Hauszmann Program
Source: FB/Nemzeti Hauszmann Program
Artistry and craftsmanship
Commissioned by Alajos Hauszmann, the Buffet Gallery’s interior was a testament to the finest craftsmanship of its time. Antal Detoma’s firm crafted stucco marble coverings, Endre Thék contributed semicircular windows and interior doors, while Gyula Jungfer adorned doors and windows. Chandeliers, a product of the Hungarian Metal and Lamp Factory Ltd., hung from the ceiling, adding to the bright appearance. The Buffet Gallery’s west wall featured tapestries depicting the reconquest of Buda, chosen by Hauszmann from the imperial collection in Vienna.
Unveiling Hungarian history
The Buffet Gallery’s panels showcased tempera paintings by Árpád Feszty, illustrating the 16th-century Hungarian poet Albert Gergei’s Historia. Feszty’s work delved into the archaic Asian fairy tale world, presenting the pre-conquest origins of the Hungarians. During the turbulent times of the Second World War, the Buda Castle’s Buffet Gallery faced a devastating fate as it succumbed to bombings. Ironically, in the aftermath, the Communists, instead of preserving its grandeur, stripped the hall of all its ornamentation during the reconstruction.
Source: FB/Nemzeti Hauszmann Program
Source: FB/Nemzeti Hauszmann Program
A renaissance through restoration
Now, under the National Hauszmann Programme, the Buffet Gallery is poised for a renaissance. The restoration process promises to bring back its original beauty, reinstating the lost magnificence of this historic banqueting hall at the Buda Castle Palace. This iconic castle, once voted one of the most beautiful in Europe, stands as a testament to Hungary’s architectural splendour. As the Buffet Gallery emerges from the shadows of history, it marks a triumph of preservation and cultural revival.
The time capsule was discovered in the dome of Sarlós Boldogasszony Church, containing a letter that is a century and twenty years old.
In a recent restoration project in Elek, the construction team stumbled upon an unexpected find. The past has once again surprised us in Elek, as reported by lelepo.hu.
Unexpected discoveries
Renovation work on the Sarlós Boldogasszony Church in Elek began at the end of October, funded by a HUF 120 million (EUR 314,173) grant from the Secretariat for Church and Nationality Relations. With this support, they aim to partially restore the copper dome of the church and cover it with new plates. However, as the construction team worked on the building, they unearthed something remarkable. In the process of renovating the dome, they uncovered a hidden treasure—a time capsule containing a century-old letter.
Hidden past
The time capsule was well hidden in the dome of the Sarlós Boldogasszony Church for over a century. It was placed there in 1901 during a renovation led by Pastor János Kramp, who presided over Elek from 1888 to 1913 and advocated for the renewal of the Elek church.
The renovation was deemed necessary because, in the pastor’s opinion, the town of Elek required a larger church. At that time, Elek had a population of ten thousand souls. Since the old church was already in a state of structural shambles, his vision was approved, and the reconstruction of the church of Elek began. The old church was renewed with a transept, and the arch was completely rebuilt. During these expansions and additional constructions, the secret time capsule found its hiding place for the next century in the dome, specifically in the globe under the cross.
Century-old secrets revealed
In the time capsule, a letter was discovered, written by none other than Pastor János Kramp. He greets readers by praising the Lord and details the renovation process, which researchers had assumed had secret donors until now. In the letter, the pastor reveals the names of his helpers who made his visions of the church come true. As it turns out, the Wenkheim family played a crucial role in the revitalisation of the Elek church, particularly Count Frigyes Wenckheim, Count Géza Wenckheim and Count Dénes Wenckheim, who were the primary patrons of the Elek Roman Catholic Church.
A renewed beginning
The plan is to reinstall the dome later this year, with facade renovations continuing in the spring. It is anticipated that a new time capsule will be placed in the renovated dome for future generations. Hopefully, the next discoverers will carry on this charming tradition that inadvertently began in Elek.
Read about another planned construction, that has the country shaken up HERE.
Read our article about a look in the past of Budapest HERE.
Contracts could be signed this year for a new project to extend the small landfill site by the Hungarian government.
At a press conference on Monday, Construction and Investment Minister János Lázár confirmed that negotiations are under way on the luxury development project, known as Maxi-Dubai, near Rákosrendező. This project involves substantial investments in Dubai, ranking among the largest worldwide, with the investor contributing almost HUF 5 billion (EUR 13,090,491).
Lázár mentioned the local renewal of the railway track, but details regarding the potential inclusion of a towering block on the site remain undisclosed. According to a document obtained by Népszava, two people are currently interested in this special area.
Dubai in Hungary
According to the document, following the evaluation of the two tenders, the government has directed the preparation of an international treaty between the UAE and Hungary. On Monday, János Lázár told Népszava that the government might sell the land, emphasising it is, in essence, a “joint real estate development.”
As things stand, the government contemplates two construction approaches. In one scenario, the state would “sell the real estate (…) necessary for the realization of the project,” while in the alternative version, the investor would “acquire the land under the buildings involved in the development and pay the value of the land use right
The document is poised to be signed this year. The Hungarian State would commit to developing five infrastructures, including the construction of the Szegedi Avenue overpass, the renovation of the railway station and track at Rákosrendező, and the establishment of a cycle and pedestrian path. The most significant investment involves extending the more than century-old M1 metro line. Meanwhile, their partner would undertake the implementation of the development concept.
Numerous bids have been received for the forthcoming construction of the Danube bridge, which is scheduled to start next year.
The tender deadline for the Danube bridge and the associated road network in Mohács lapsed on Thursday, yielding several bids. The evaluation process for the contractor selection is expected to conclude in spring, as reported by bama.hu. János Hargitai, Member of Parliament for the region and Ministerial Commissioner for the Mohács 500 programme, conveyed that increased bid submissions enhance competition. However, due to stringent rules governing public procurement, he refrained from disclosing further details.
Hargitai noted that the contractor selection evaluation should wrap up in spring, allowing construction of the Danube bridge to follow swiftly after completing the Kalocsa bridge by mid-next year.
The paper has looked into the call for tenders and found the decision typically takes 60 days from the tender submission deadline, with a potential two-month extension. Given the substantial scale of this project, reaching into the hundreds of billions of euros, an extension is nearly inevitable. Consequently, the decision on the contracting company is anticipated by March 2024.
The evaluation criteria consists of a broad spectrum, including the firms’ suitability and their staff, professional experience, financial and economic compliance, and ensuring best value for money.
We understand that the investment is anticipated to be financed from domestic budgetary resources, so its launch is independent of potential funds from Brussel
– the paper notes, adding that the tender is structured in three phases: constructing the connecting road network on the island and urban sides, and building the bridge itself. Work is set to start simultaneously at each site, with the contractor allotted fifty months from contract signing to completion.
Construction phases of the new Danube bridge
The 57 motorway section from the M6 motorway to the “Mohács” roundabout will transform into a dual carriageway, with a tight 21-month timeframe for completion. The northern edge construction near the battlefield, commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Battle of Mohács in 2026, is to be done without traffic disruptions.
The current 2×1-lane 57 will be converted into a 2×2-lane divided carriageway from the new town roundabout to the M6 motorway. A two-lane turbo roundabout will be incorporated, with a 2.7 km dual carriageway from Mohács border to the bridge. Construction will extend from the existing municipal road to the project’s completion, after its demolition.
As previously noted, Tisza’s new bridge construction is scheduled to commence in 2025, detailed in this video here.
MÁV just made the important announcement! They retired this international train 8 years ago. Now it starts running again after its hiatus.
The train between Szeged- Rendező and Röszke continues where it left off eight years ago, better than it ever was. On a more than 13 kilometer section the line and it’s environment was renovated, so now it runs smoothly between the two countries.
Upgraded environment
According to Portfolio the Röszke station was also fully reconstructed to better accommodate the hopefully increasing number of people passing through it’s halls. Among others, they improved the parking lot and made a new raised platform, making it more accessible for those with reduced mobility. They added new rain shelters too! In addition, along the Szeged area they built a noise protection wall on a long section of the track, writes Portfolio.
The actual reconstruction of the line finished last summer, and freight trains could already operate it, but the line was not yet open for passenger trains. This is mostly due to the fact that the necessary safety equipment took longer to obtain and these lacking later had to be revised in the error log. The necessary approvals got approved slower because of this and so the expected opening of the track had to be postponed from October 23rd, 2023.
What to expect
After these hardships, the track will once again open to passenger trains on the 28th of November. There will be ten trains or five pairs running between the two countries daily. The expected travel time will be an hour and a half, this is with the mandatory border control included.
The schedule counts with morning commuter traffic too, since the first pair of trains will arrive to their destinations by half past seven in the morning the latest. It should be noted that the Hungarian discounts can’t be used in Serbia, which includes the county passes and the elderly discounts as well as the children’s. A full price ticket for the whole ride will cost 6.20 EUR or 2360 HUF, except for children under the age of 6, because they ride for free.
Another
Hungary is in a train frenzy! The government has issued a decree, which allows for the Southern Circular railway to be developed. The plans for this development were heavily campaigned against, since it would mean the felling of hundreds of trees. The proposal was refused by the court twice before. Now, the government stated, referring to the war in Ukraine, that the railway was a important element of the national defense system. However with this development in the case, the construction can’t be officially stopped, even if someone would veto the decree. According to a civil organization work has resumed on the track days before the decision was finalized.
As is obvious Hungary is going crazy over trains this month.
HERE‘s where you can read more about trains between Serbia and Hungary.
HERE‘s where you can read more about Hungary’s defense strategy.
Governmental plans were released for a new city district and the funding of several new infrastructural buildings in the Rákosrendező area in Budapest. According to these, this proposal would include coordination with an Arab investor and the government is already working on the refinement of the plans with them.
The Arab investor mentioned is none other than Mohamed Alabbar’s company, the Emaar Properties. If this sounds familiar to you, it’s because this is the same company that built the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the worlds tallest building, standing at 828 meters. Luckily, the one they plan to build in Hungary doesn’t even scratch that height, but with the planned 220 meters, it would still be the highest building in Budapest. The planned skyscraper isn’t the only shocking element of the plan: the broader vision includes the construction of a whole mini-Dubai in ten years’ time.
A long-term commitment
The funding of the new district would be an amount that is equivalent to roughly HUF 1900 billion or around EUR 5 billion. This sum would be based on an intergovernmental agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Hungary. The Emaar Properties would buy the area without competition, but at market price. The Hungarian government also pledged HUF 300 billion or roughly EUR 800 million for infrastructure developments in the area. These would include an overpass, metro and railway extensions.
The overpass would go between Zugló and Angyalföld, making the Városliget car-free. From this budget, they would also finally get around to restructuring the railways at Rákosrendező, which have been out of date for the last 20 years. The remainder of the money would pay for the construction of a pedestrian and bicycle path by the Rákos stream and the extension of the Metro Line 1. The area given to the Emaar Properties would host luxury apartments and office buildings.
The ground value for this area has not been estimated as of yet, that’s why the final price wouldn’t be fixed, rather a sum of square meter price. The area is estimated to be 69.3 hectares, but a few sections would be closed off from the deal. Among others, the necessary zones for long-term developments, such as the mentioned overpass, would also be excluded. The area of the BVSC would also be cut off as well as the Railway History Park. The Emaar Properties company also plans to build above the rails, but the plans are still pending and have not yet been approved.
Having doubts?
The proposition has not yet been approved and it seems that there’s already been a slip-up with time management. The third party, who would estimate the value of the discussed area, was supposed to inspect in early November, since according to Telex, the proposal was discussed in a governmental meeting at the end of October. To put the proposal into motion, the area would need to have an objective estimated value, and for that, a third party is needed. There was also supposed to be a public consultation and the involvement of local politicians. These haven’t happened yet and that may mean the government is having doubts about the whole affair.
A new Budapest
These doubts could be understandable since the area discussed sits very close to one of the crown jewels of Budapest, the Heroes’ Square. That means the proposed skyscraper would stand in the background of the world famous view. The mayor of Budapest added in a Facebook post, commenting on the issue of the Budapest skyline, that he finds it quite unbelievable that the government is even considering the offer.
Another main concern along with the questionable impact on this historical site is the lack of involvement of local politicians. Once asked about the possible construction, the Municipality of Budapest responded that they haven’t received word about it from the Parliament and as much as the Rákosrendező area is in need of a renovation, the public consultation can’t be left out when discussing a construction of this scale.
Nothing is certain, but discussion about the proposition is still taking place. Who knows, maybe ten years from now, we’ll see the DubaiPest come into being.
A cornerstone ceremony has been held in the village of Soltanli in Nagorno-Karabakh, to be rebuilt by a Hungarian company, the minister of foreign affairs and trade said on Friday.
Péter Szijjártó said in Soltanli that some 5,000-6,000 people will be able to return to the village thanks to the project.
The ministry cited Szijjártó as saying that an agreement has been signed between Baku and Budapest in line with which Hungarian companies will rebuild Soltanli, and the KESZ Group has signed a contract to carry out the work.
Residential buildings, community buildings, hospitals, schools, kindergarten and sports facilities will be rebuilt, he added.
“This cornerstone ceremony is the first step towards comprehensive reconstruction, and another sign of the true friendship between Hungary and Azerbaijan,” he said.
Szijjártó, who is the first European Union foreign minister visiting the region, said it would be desirable for a peace treaty ending the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to be signed soon.
Hungary has been working for 13 years to develop true strategic friendship with Azerbaijan, considered an important friend and ally, he added.
He said Hungary’s friendship was not only “friendship based on natural gas”.
“We always stand up for Azerbaijan concerning the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, too,” he added.
Read also:
Prominent Azerbaijani poet and philosopher’s statue inaugurated in Hungary – Details in THIS article
This was not the first time that Hungary’s construction and transport minister, János Lázár, talked about sending home all foreign companies active in the sector. Yesterday, he highlighted again that it would be better for them to just sell their subsidiaries and leave Hungary. War on the horizon between the Orbán government, the firms and their home countries, especially Germany and Austria?
According to Blikk, a Hungarian tabloid, János Lázár, Hungary’s construction and transport minister, cleared at a yesterday press conference that foreign companies had no place in Hungary. He added the government had to end that the Hungarian economy works with foreign building materials and a high import rate in the construction sector.
He said that the construction sector was strategic in Hungary. He added that between 2010 and 2022, the government invested in the sector more than HUF 28,000 billion (EUR 73.6 billion based on today’s exchange rate), but 50% of the money went abroad.
French, Austrian, German construction companies in trouble
The time is over that Hungary struggles from a French, German, and Austrian conquest in the construction sector, he highlighted. Furthermore, he said it was in vain for German, Austrian and French construction companies to lobby in Western Europe or Hungary. They should sell their subsidiaries to the Hungarian state or businessmen, and leave the country once and for all.
He said that 50% of the building materials come from imports. Foreign companies take 80% of the raw materials from abroad. Provided they do not import, most of the raw materials are produced by foreign companies in Hungary. That has to be changed.
He cleared that in Hungary, Hungarian entrepreneurs should use Hungarian building materials. That is how the country can become powerful.
Read also:
Beautiful art nouveau hotel of Hungary is finally being renovated – Read more HERE
One of Hungary’s largest universities to expand with a new campus in the city centre – Details in THISarticle
