Discover Pécs

Pécs brings together a variety of cultural and historical themes: Zsolnay heritage, museums featuring works by different artists, religious architecture, city history, and a theater with Croatian and Hungarian programs. There is also a zoo and a place where guests can learn about traditional champagne production and sample champagne. If you’re looking for hotels in Pécs, it helps to start planning by considering which of these interests you want to shape your stay.

Zsolnay heritage and public spaces

The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter is located on the restored site of the former Zsolnay family ceramics factory and preserves the Zsolnays’ heritage. In its parks and along its promenades, 15 protected architectural monuments and 88 public Zsolnay sculptures adorn the grounds. The quarter thus connects the history of a former factory site with artworks in public spaces. Those interested in Zsolnay heritage will find both architectural landmarks and sculptures here, offering different perspectives on the same cultural theme.

Architectural history and art collections

Pécs Cathedral offers a clear contrast between different periods: its foundations were laid in the 11th century, but its present appearance dates from the late 19th century, based on a design by Frigyes Schmidt, also known as Friedrich von Schmidt. These details refer to different phases of construction. The Dome Lapidary in Pécs displays significant sculptural works through stone carvings from the cathedral.

The museums also have different focuses. At the Csontváry Museum, you can view paintings by Tivadar Csontváry Kosztka. The Vasarely Museum features a permanent exhibition by Op Art artist Győző Vasarely. Pécs thus offers different ways to engage with visual art: paintings by a single artist and an exhibition devoted to a representative of Op Art.

City center and archaeological remains

Széchenyi Square is a lively hub in the city center. Its attractions include the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, the Zsolnay Fountain and the bronze equestrian statue of János Hunyadi. These three attractions give the square a varied character, making it a useful central landmark for finding your way around downtown. The Barbakan offers a different view of history: as part of the bishop’s castle, the Gothic gate tower served defensive purposes.

The Cella Septichora Visitor Center displays six two-story tombs: tombs numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 19 and 20. The center also displays two larger, single-room buildings: the Cella Septichora and Tomb No. 5. The precise number and varied forms help distinguish the structures on display. Those interested in archaeological exhibits will find a different thematic perspective here than in the art museums or at the city-center square.

Theater, wildlife and champagne culture

The Croatian Theatre of Pécs performs in Croatian, serves the cultural needs of Hungary’s Croatian minority and welcomes everyone with an interest. It also presents Hungarian plays and related artistic performances. Its program therefore includes Hungarian productions as well as Croatian-language theater. Check the current schedule before your visit.

Pécs Zoo, Aquarium and Terrarium covers four hectares and is home to 1,500 specimens from 300 species. These figures give an idea of the zoo’s size and species diversity; the numbers of animals may change over time. For a very different experience, visit the five-story Littke Palace Pezsgőpince. There, guests can learn about traditional champagne production and sample champagne. If you plan to enjoy this experience, confirm the visiting arrangements before your trip.

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