- Noémi Vizi
- Photos: Soós Bertalan
- Reading time: 2 minutes
Although the passage of time has left its mark on the Barkóczy Castle of Recsk, only imagination limits its future possibilities
When travelling in the north-eastern part of Hungary, we will most likely visit the Mátra Mountains. Perhaps because we are planning a hike to Kékestető or the Ilona Waterfall, or because we would like to visit the Castle of Eger – or maybe the Szépasszony Valley or the Castle of Sirok. Even if our destination is the town centre of Gyöngyös, we can still spend memorable days there. This time, however, we travel to Recsk, a former mining town located 34 kilometres from Gyöngyös, 24 kilometres from Eger, and about 1 hour 45 minutes from Budapest by car. It is a true hidden gem, although for many people its name is associated with the infamous Recsk labour camp, where between 1950 and 1953 some 1,500 prisoners (workers, intellectuals, politicians and landowners) were imprisoned without trial under inhuman conditions. (The Barkóczy Castle itself was occupied by the State Protection Authority, and their Recsk headquarters operated here.) The survivors founded the Recsk Association, which erected a memorial in 1991 in honour of the victims. In 1996, they established the Recsk National Memorial Park, reconstructed based on survivors’ recollections and transformed into a visitor centre. Before the 1950s, this area belonged to the estates of the Barkóczy family, and their sheep pastures were located here.
Returning in time to the 1890s, this was the period when the Barkóczy Castle was built, the subject of this article. Unfortunately, few written records and memories have survived, but it is certain that we are speaking of a magnificent eleven-room castle situated on the road connecting Recsk and Mátraderecske, in the middle of an ancient arboretum. The family must have enjoyed a breathtaking view while carrying out their everyday activities and managing the affairs of the estate. The castle has an approximate floor area of 805 square metres, while the surrounding plot covers 10,000 square metres. Although the passage of time has left visible traces on the building, its appearance remains impressive, and after renovation this wonderful castle could be reborn.
The building previously operated as a children’s home and is currently privately owned. It functions as an event centre and wedding venue, but it would also be an excellent filming location. Originally, plans existed to convert it into a hotel, but it could easily be adapted for other purposes as well, such as a private clinic or a retirement home, as it is not under historic monument protection. The roof has already undergone complete renovation, the upper floor can be freely developed, and the 260-square-metre basement could be transformed into a wellness area or wine cellar, further increasing the usable space. Recently, a fully equipped 100-square-metre log cabin was built on the property. In addition, there is a stable and agricultural building next to the castle, making the estate suitable as a family home with animals or even as a recreational centre combined with a farm.
Even in its current, time-worn condition, the Barkóczy Castle retains its dignity and grandeur. The surrounding park forest further enhances the feeling of being close to nature, offering peace and tranquillity. Let us hope that it soon finds a new owner, and that we will one day be able to report on its renewed, restored splendour.
