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Written by:
Noémi Vizi
- Photos: Csorba Dániel
- Reading time: 3 minutes
Barcza Castle – Pusztazámor Öreg Tölgy Castle Inn
Walking through the manor house, surrounded by 19th-century furniture, we arrive at the terrace. Stepping outside, we are greeted by a picturesque lake, a charming white pavilion on its shore, and an expansive park. Today, the Öreg Tölgy Castle Inn is a popular venue for La Boum castle parties, family celebrations, weddings, and other special events. Yet only a few decades ago, the building served entirely different purposes. Over the years, it functioned as a military facility, a church, and even a school. The present manor was originally commissioned by the Barcza family between 1859 and 1877, replacing what was most likely an 18th-century residence. In 1798, Károly Barcza of Nagyalásony married Jozefa Mentler, and together they settled in Pusztazámor. During the 1870s, the family became patrons of the local school, contributing significantly to the village's development. Their grandson, also named Károly Barcza, married Irma Horváth of Zalabér. Near the old Mentler manor, on the opposite bank of the Zámor Stream, they built a new castle that became known as Barcza Castle.
The castle acquired its distinctive eclectic appearance during a major extension carried out between 1884 and 1892. As time passed, however, successive owners regarded it primarily as a practical building rather than a noble residence. It was adapted to serve various functions, including that of a school. As the building deteriorated, it gradually lost both its architectural character and former splendour. Eventually, the once elegant Barcza Castle survived only in old photographs and in the memories of local residents. A turning point came in 1998, when antiques dealer János Krajcsovics and his wife, Ágnes Zsigray, purchased the neglected estate.
The agreement was remarkable: Barcza Castle in exchange for a new school for Pusztazámor. Mr Krajcsovics financed the construction of a new school for the village's children, allowing a new chapter to begin in the castle's history—a fascinating historical parallel to the educational commitment once shown by the Barcza family. The new owners spared neither time nor expense in restoring the castle according to original photographs and architectural plans from the late 19th century. Great care was taken to acquire authentic period furniture and decorative objects so that every visitor could experience the atmosphere of an aristocratic Hungarian home at the turn of the 20th century. It is fair to say—and the photographs clearly demonstrate—that the historically accurate restoration has been an outstanding success. Today, an antique shop welcomes visitors in the entrance hall, while several rooms display an impressive art collection and a library of approximately 3,000 volumes. The castle also offers six guest rooms, a 130-square-metre ballroom, and an 80-square-metre lounge, making it an exceptional venue for weddings, conferences, and private events.
Why is it called the Öreg Tölgy (Old Oak) Castle Inn? The answer lies in the castle's magnificent park. Surrounded by horse chestnuts, small-leaved lindens, field elms, hackberries, Russian olive trees, yews, Japanese pagoda trees, and beeches stands an extraordinary English oak, estimated to be 300–350 years old. With its eight massive branches and impressive crown, this ancient tree gave the estate its name. As you wander along the romantic pathways, you may wonder how to tell when you have reached the edge of the grounds. A corner bastion comes into view, offering a beautiful panoramic view over the park. Nearby, a distinctive stone fence decorated with undulating balustrades and stone spheres marks the boundary of the estate. Looking in the opposite direction, you will see a charming little bridge spanning the Zámor Stream. After taking in the scenery, simply turn back and continue enjoying the peaceful beauty of the castle gardens.
How can you become part of this journey through time—even if only for a few hours? One possibility is to attend one of the famous La Boum Castle Parties, a unique event series created during the festival cancellations of 2020. Their popularity has remained undiminished ever since. The castle is also an ideal venue for birthday celebrations, weddings and wedding receptions, team-building events, corporate functions, and countless other occasions. The possibilities are virtually endless. Today, Olivér Krajcsovics continues his father's vision, ensuring that every event preserves the unique atmosphere and elegance of the estate. Located just 30 kilometres from Budapest, the castle is easily accessible and enjoys a picturesque setting beside the Zámor Stream—yet another reason to discover this hidden gem.
Csorba Dániel has also created a vlog about the Öreg Tölgy Castle Inn, which you can watch here:
