Things to do in Pécs

About Pécs

Pécs is a Mediterranean-style city in southern Hungary defined by its synthesis of Roman, early Christian, and Ottoman architectural influences. It is home to the UNESCO-listed early Christian necropolis, which complements the iconic Basilica of Pécs [18584] and the historic Barbican [28931]. The city is internationally renowned for its production of eosin-glazed ceramics, showcased prominently at the Zsolnay Fountain [18583]. Visitors often venture to the Mecsek hills for panoramic views from the Pécs TV Tower [32095] or to explore the historical remnants at the Tettye Ruins [17502].

Good to know

1. 1

   Pécs served as one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2010, driving a major revitalization of its industrial heritage sites.

2. 2

   The city is home to Hungary’s first university, founded by King Louis the Great in 1367.

3. 3

   The subterranean early Christian cemetery contains frescoed burial chambers that are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4. 4

   Pécs maintains a unique microclimate in the Mecsek hills that supports Mediterranean vegetation, such as almond and fig trees, which are rare elsewhere in Hungary.

5. 5

   The city's Zsolnay ceramic factory revolutionized architectural ornamentation in the Austro-Hungarian Empire by inventing a durable, weather-resistant pyrogranite material.