Veszprém is going to be European Capital of Culture 2023. The European Capital of Culture Programme is one of the most important cultural programmes of the European Union. It is designed to showcase the wealth of Europe’s cultural diversity as well as shared cultural features within Europe in order to promote closer coexistence and better mutual understanding between European peoples.
Veszprém lies on both sides of the Séd creek, approximately 110 km from Budapest, and 15 Km from Lake Balaton.
According to legend, Veszprém was founded on seven hills. The historic centre of Veszprém is the castle, which – together with the surrounding town – was one of the significant centre of our country until the Turkish occupation: it was the King’s and Queen’s seat and an episcopal seat.The medieval castle and town suffered large-scale destruction in the Turkish period. The present-day historic town evolved during the town development constructions of the 18-19 th and the early 20 th century. WW II. and the following period caused relatively little damage to the old centre.
The residential areas of Veszprém were visibly separated based on the social and financial situation of the population. The wealthy bourgeoisie and noblemen populated Óváros tér and the surrounding area, Jókai utca was inhabited by clerks and craftsmen.
Veszprém is a quiet and shy town. One must pay attention to it. In order to absorb its special atmosphere, one must stroll around its streets and squares, listen to the bells and observe its walls and buildings. As the castle is always in the centre, it is impossible to lose your way.