Heves megyei aprónyomtatványok 21/E

THE BÜKK HILLS: Upon leaving the town of Eger towards the north,we enter the Bükk forest, located on a 1,400 square metre area. The region is covered by emerald green grass in summer, and a shining blanket of snow in winter. Many forms of dolomitic structures have been created on the edge of the hills, and we can also marvel at caverns rich in archeological relics. Springs with abundant water gush to the surface. These deeplying waters laid the foundations for the spa culture of the area, so well known beyond the country' borders. Hungary's second largest national park is situated in the Bükk hills. Hunting and riding facilities enhance the potentiality of the region. Adding to its touristic pull are the folk trades still living today, wood cutting, charcoal and lime burning, pottery, folk arts, customs and rural houses as well as folk art relics found in the area.

Bélapátfalva: This village, located 25 km from the county seat, had existed back in the Middle Ages under the protection of Bélkő. Cistercian monks who settled down in the romantic environment in 1232 had built a basilica and monastery in puritan architectural style. This Cistercian church, the most intact in Hungary, still retains the characteristics of its age and late Romanesque style. The immediate surroundings of the village lure arriving tourists to live in tents, go bathing, on outings, engage in sports and relax in many other ways. Bükkszék: The village is a resort settlement located in varied natural surroundings. The village, conjuring up historical times, was mentioned under the name of Szék (Seat) back in the Middle Ages. Its curative - sour - "Salvus" water is known to many abroad, as it eases gastric disorders and bowel complaints. A bath was built relying on its abundant springs. The clean air, and outstanding natural endowments of the village guarantee full recreation for the human body. Guests can find comfortable accomodation in campsites and bungalows built at scenicspots, and in neat family housesof the village. Egerszalók: In medieval times this village,built near thecounty seat on the shore of stream Lajkó, had been the property of the famous Rozgonyi family and the Szalók dynasty which later lent its name to it. The village is well-known for its excellent wine and 68 C degree thermal springs with a curative effect. Its 130-hectar water reservoir is often visited by anglers and lovers of water sports. A much favoured art relic is the Roman CatholicChurch, built in 1738, with a picture ofthe Blessed Virgin Mary on the altar, thanks to which the village hasbecome a highly popular place where religious festivals are regulary arranged. Felsőtárkány: This village, built near Eger in a valley, guarded by hills, has been a favourite place of relaxation for the bishopric and its visitors for hundreds of years. The picturesque surroundings of the Bükk Hills still lure many visitors to the village that retains Palóc traditions. The interior and folk architectural relics of its parish church are worthy of attention. Those seeking relaxation, and trippers keen on discovering the beauty of the Bükk hills, are eagerly awaited by the local residents known for their hospitaly and quality catering spots in this dynamically developing village. Noszvaj: The past of this typical sub-Bükk settlement, located at the south-western foot of the hills, and in the vicinity of Eger, goes back to the 13th century. It has been a popular outing spot thanks to the system of lakes fed by the Saint Emerich spring, and its clear mountain air, where three hotels and two pensions serve visitors. The chateau, built in 1774 in late Baroque style, with its murals and park, belong among the most attractive art relics in the region. The Farmer's House presents the architecture, way of life and the characteristic furnishings of local residents and their folk trades around the turn of the century. Ostoros: This village, located six kilometres from the county seat, and known as Istoros in early 13th cen tury was burnt down by the in vading Turkish forces during the 1552 siege of Eger. Local residents hid in cellars dug into tuff, and used them as abode for centuries to come. The village came to be populated in the early 18th century and since that time it has been a popular outing spot. Its pulling power stems from the vineyards planted on the slopes of the hills, the wines ripening in the cellars, and the facilities provided by the local artificial lake. Sirok: The village, located along the Tama stream, is mostly known for the ruin of a castle that dominates the rock hill behind the settlement. The first building projects had been done by members of the Aba dinasty in the 13th century. The village often changed hands, and eventually came to be ruled by Turks for nearly 100 years. Near the castle ruins "stand" rock idols which offer a fine view on the Mátra and Bükk chains and the Lower Tatra hills. Theone-timecave-dwellingsare sights rarely found elsewhere. Szarvaskő: This village, located in a pictureque environment in the valley of the Eger stream, about 12 km from the county seat, is a popular outing spot. It is mostly known for its castle that played a pivotal role in the Mongolian invasion. The village that was actually reborn in the 18th century catches the eyes of visitors with its fine peasant houses, and neoclassic church. Szilvásvárad: It is located deep down in the Bükk woods. Meandering through the woods is the Szalajka stream, plus fishponds, waters rich in trout, cliffs adorned by rocky ravines, and waterfalls. E>eer, roe, wild sheep, foxes and wild cats roam the woods in the surroundings. The famous horse stud at Szilvásvárad attracts lovers of equestrian sports. It is worth taking a look at i ts rare and rich collection, the Lippizan Museum, the Open-Air Woods Museum and theOrban House. Tarnaszentmária: Achurchbuiltinthemiddle of the 11 th century, and still open today, isoneoftheoldest of its kind in Hungary. Its is located in this small village situated in the valley of the Tama stream. It proves that this village of the Aba dynasty was built at a fairly age.The highlight of the church is a crypt below the sanctum,where lay a one-time renowned person. Verpelét: This village is located at the southern foot of the Mátra hills, on a hilly region, and in the valley of the Tama stream. It is known for its tobacco and vine culture and wines. The medieval details on its church prove that it might have been a well-to-do village in the 13th century. Later on it was where county rallies were held. The church was destroyed during the reconquest of Eger, and was re-populated again in the early 18th century. Its principal sights include the church rebuilt in Baroque style, and a blacksmith workshop built around the year 1800.