Gyula Fortress is a remarkable relic of Hungarian history, one of the last remaining brick fortresses in Central Europe. Situated in the town of Gyula, this medieval Gothic stronghold has witnessed centuries of battles, sieges and noble legacies. From its construction in the early 15th century to its transformation into a cultural hub, Gyula Fortress continues to captivate visitors with its rich past and historical ambiance.

The birth of a mighty fortress

The origins of Gyula Fortress trace back to the early 1400s when János Maróti, the Macsó governor, initiated its construction. At the time, Hungary was a kingdom under the rule of Sigismund of Luxembourg, and the need for fortified structures was essential for defense. Built primarily of brick due to the lack of natural stone in the region, Gyula Fortress became a strategic stronghold amidst the marshy lands of the Körös rivers.

The first official mention of the fortress dates to 1405 when documents refer to its appointed castellans. Over the following decades, the fortress expanded and evolved, including the consecration of a chapel in 1445 by Miklós, an auxiliary bishop of Eger. (The chapel is the only room in the fortress whose original function is known for certain. No documents have survived regarding the exact layout of the fortress’s interior spaces, so the purpose of the other rooms can only be inferred based on probable evidence.) With its growing significance, the fortress eventually fell under the ownership of King Matthias Corvinus in 1476 after the Maróti family line ended.

Royal and noble hands

In 1482 Matthias Corvinus granted the fortress and its estates to his son, János Corvin. This decision elevated Gyula to the center of Békés County’s administration, further enhancing its prominence. However, after János Corvin’s death in 1504, his widow, Beatrix von Frangepan, assumed control. In a rare moment in Hungarian history, she became the first female lord-lieutenant (főispán) of the region, ruling the fortress until her marriage to George of Brandenburg-Ansbach in 1509.

The 16th century marked a turbulent era for Gyula Fortress. The fortress endured multiple sieges, including the failed peasant revolt led by György Dózsa in 1514 and an eight-month siege by János Szapolyai’s forces in 1529–1530, which eventually led to its surrender due to starvation.

A crucial bastion against the Ottomans

By the mid-1500s, Gyula Fortress emerged as one of Hungary’s strongest fortifications, alongside Eger and Szigetvár. Following the loss of Temesvár in 1552, Gyula became the last major Hungarian-held fortress east of the Tisza River, making it a vital defensive post against the advancing Ottoman Empire.

In 1566 a formidable Ottoman force of 30,000 soldiers led by Pertev Pasha arrived at Gyula’s gates. The ensuing siege lasted an astonishing 63 days, making it one of the longest in Hungarian history. Despite their valiant resistance, the defenders, led by Captain László Kerecsényi, eventually succumbed to exhaustion, dwindling supplies and a devastating dysentery outbreak. The fortress was officially surrendered on September 2, 1566, marking the beginning of 129 years of Ottoman rule.

The fortress’ renaissance and decline

Gyula remained under Ottoman control until 1695 when Habsburg forces reclaimed the fortress. Over time, Gyula Fortress lost its military significance, especially with the rise of the nearby Arad fortress. By the 18th century, it had transitioned into administrative and economic use, housing a brewery, distillery and even serving as a county assembly hall.

During the 19th century, the fortress became a silent witness to Hungary’s struggles for independence. In 1849 Russian troops disarmed Hungarian officers on the grounds between the fortress and the nearby Almásy Mansion, with ten of them later executed as part of the infamous Arad Martyrs. By 1905 the fortress was abandoned, and it wasn’t until 1943 that the local government purchased it from its last noble owner, Dénes Almásy.

Restoration and cultural revival

Efforts to restore Gyula Fortress began in the 1950s, leading to extensive archaeological excavations. By 1965 the first museum exhibitions were opened, and in 1989 further restorations enhanced the site. Today the fortress houses 24 exhibition rooms, bringing history to life through interactive displays, medieval crafts and period reconstructions.

One of the highlights of visiting Gyula Fortress is the annual Gyulai Végvári Napok (Gyula Border Fortress Days), where hundreds of reenactors recreate the legendary 1566 siege. This spectacular event immerses visitors in the sights and sounds of a 16th-century battlefield, complete with cavalry charges, cannon fire and historic costumes.

Gyula Fortress is a living testament to Hungary’s resilience and cultural heritage. Whether you explore its medieval halls, witness a live reenactment, or enjoy a theatrical performance at the Gyulai Várszínház (Gyula Fortress Theater), this fortress offers a unique journey through time.

If you ever find yourself in Hungary, Gyula Fortress is well worth a visit. Standing proudly amidst the town’s serene landscape, this red-brick fortress continues to tell the stories of warriors, nobles and the indomitable spirit of those who once called it home.

• Address: 5700 Gyula, Gyulai vár
• Official website: gyulavara.hu
• How to get there: Gyula is a town in southeastern Hungary, close to the Romanian border. Whether you’re traveling from Budapest, Szeged, or Debrecen, there are several ways to reach the town and its iconic Gyula Fortress.
  • By car: From Budapest: Take the M5 motorway, then continue on the M44 expressway towards Békéscsaba. From Békéscsaba, Gyula is just a short 16 km drive on Route 44. From Szeged or Debrecen: use Route 47, passing through Békéscsaba before heading to Gyula.
    For parking, you can leave your car at Kossuth Street or Maróthy Square, both located near the fortress.
  • By train and bus: Gyula has a railway station, but most trains require a transfer at Békéscsaba, which has direct connections from Budapest and other major cities. From Békéscsaba, you can take a local train or a bus to Gyula. Once in Gyula, you can take a local bus or a short taxi ride to reach the fortress.
  • On foot: the fortress is conveniently located in the town center, directly across from the Almásy Mansion. If you are staying in Gyula, the fortress is within walking distance from most accommodations.

(Sources: 1, 2, 3)