Discover Szikszó: Churches, the Hernád and a history of winegrowing

If you are considering Szikszó as a destination for a hotel stay, the town’s history, architecture and a walk along the river can offer different points to consider. The town brings together several historical perspectives: two churches, each with its own building history, a memorial plaque at the former synagogue and a history of winegrowing passed down through the years. The Hernád adds a distinctive landscape to these themes and the opportunity to take a walk by the river.

Churches with different building histories

A wooden church stood on the site of the Roman Catholic church in 1743; today, a stone church stands there. Its building history traces the transition from the wooden structure of 1743 to the present-day stone church. The Greek Catholic church in Szikszó is built in the Byzantine style, was designed by Csaba Bodonyi and has a three-part floor plan. The two churches can be viewed through different architectural features: in one, the change in building material is central; in the other, the style, design and floor plan are specified.

Remembrance and a history of winegrowing

A memorial plaque at the entrance to the former synagogue commemorates 629 victims. The building serves a different purpose. The history of winegrowing can also be placed in a timeline: vineyards were already cultivated in Szikszó in the late 13th century. Records from the 18th century compared the quality of wine from Szikszó with that from Tokaj-Hegyalja. The earlier date refers to winegrowing, while the later comparison concerns the assessment of wine quality.

The Hernád and a walk by the river

The Hernád forms Szikszó’s eastern boundary; this stretch of the river is completely unregulated. You can take a walk along the Hernád where it passes Szikszó. This means the town’s historical themes sit alongside a specific opportunity to spend time by the river.

More places to explore in Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén

The wider destination of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén offers additional, distinct themes. The Baradla-Domica Cave System is part of the UNESCO World Heritage property Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst. The short Aggtelek cave tour is 1 kilometre long, takes 60 minutes and is rated easy. In Miskolc, Diósgyőr Castle flourished during the reign of King Louis the Great in the 14th century. Later, it served as a residence and a wedding gift for six queens. The cave tour has a clearly defined duration, while the castle’s history takes centre stage.

The Tokaj wine region also offers a distinct perspective on wine: its climate, soil quality and slope exposure are suitable for growing grapes. The region is legally protected as a designated wine-growing area. In Lillafüred, a nature trail introduces local historical sights and natural features. The forest railway runs from Diósgyőr via Lillafüred to Garadna. Check the current timetable before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Hernádkércs

Go to the main travel overview: Szikszói.