Pecs, Hungary

Pecs is a beautiful old city with a neo-romantic cathedral, the Mosque of Pascha Gázi Kassim from the Turkish occupation and ancient city walls . The world famous painter Victor Vasarely, born in Pécs, donated many of his paintings to the city, which can be seen in the Vasarely Museum. Zsolnay Eozin (metallic green) porcelain originates from Pécs. The theater and the post office also are must-sees.

Mysterious crypts from Roman times, cupolaed Turkish djamis, a slim minaret, exquisite Zsolnay ceramics, Csontvary paintings, decorative Vasarely patterns, almond trees blooming early in spring, atmospheric restaurants and cafes - this is Pecs, the 2000-year-old town with the Mediterranean climate and atmosphere at the southern foot of the Mecsek Hills. It has been a bishop's seat since 1009.

Pecs, which the Romans called Sopianae, was a significant centre of early Christianity. The 4th century " necropolis " consisting of 16 graves was acknowledged by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2000. Seven structures are still being excavated, and two monuments are open to the public: Hungary's most significant early Christian monument, the two-storey Ancient Christian Mausoleum (Szent Istvan Square) with its wall paintings, and the remains of three sarcophagi. The Chapel (Jug Crypt), accessible from Dom Square, has paintings on the wall, one of which depicts a jug.

The road to the top of the hill is bordered by the steepy streets and nice old houses which lie on the hilly area of Pécs known as "Tettye"; Spend a pleasant evening tasting the hill's famous wines after hiking on the marked pathways in the Mecsek Park Forest. The 360 degree panorama from the 525-meter-high Misina Peak is wonderful.

Visitors looking for curios or bargains should keep the following in mind: antique fairs are held the first Friday of every month, and every Saturday and Sunday there are flea markets and car markets. On Sundays there are animal fairs, as well.

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