Szigliget Attractions

The Szigliget peninsula, 4km (21/2mi.) beyond Badacsonytördemic, was (like Tihany) originally surrounded by water. Anyone visiting the village of Szigliget cannot fail to be captivated by its picturesque center and the beautiful thatched cottages which are now listed buildings. Fortunately, it is as yet unspoiled by tourists. The most impressive building on the village square (Fö tér) is the former Eszterházy Palace, a Classical 19th C edifice surrounded by parkland, which now provides working accommodation for Hungarian writers. Of the 13th C church of All Saints (Avasi templom) on the former ferry mooring in the east of the peninsula only the Romanesque basalt tower still stands; this is being converted from a square to an octagonal design. The climb up the 280m (920ft) high castle mound is worthwhile just for the magnificent view. At the top can be seen the remains of the 13th C castle which at times was owned by the king and was razed to the ground by imperial troops in the early 18th C.