Savaria Museum
Vas
The Savaria Museum is located in Szombathely, Hungary's oldest city, originally founded as the Roman colonia Colonia Claudia Savariensum in 45 AD. The museum highlights the city's significance as the capital of the Roman province Pannonia Superior and later Pannonia Prima. It exhibits artifacts from the Roman era, including remains of an imperial residence, public baths, and an amphitheatre, reflecting the city's historical importance on the Amber Road trade route. Savaria was a religious center with discoveries such as a mithraeum, and it is also famed as the birthplace of Saint Martin of Tours. Over the centuries, the city evolved through Roman, Gothic, and Hungarian influences, with the museum chronicling its continuous habitation and cultural transitions. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on regional history, art, and culture, connecting visitors with both ancient and modern heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for current exhibitions and opening hours. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when outdoor archaeological sites and events are accessible. Tickets can often be purchased on-site, but booking ahead is recommended for special exhibitions and group visits. Discounts are typically available for students, seniors, and groups. The museum is accessible by public transport and offers guided tours for a more in-depth experience.
Interesting facts
- •Szombathely is the oldest recorded city in Hungary, founded as the Roman city Savaria in 45 AD.
- •The city was an important hub on the ancient Amber Road trade route connecting the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean.
- •Emperor Constantine the Great visited Savaria multiple times and elevated its status in the Roman Empire.
- •Saint Martin of Tours, a prominent Christian saint, was born in Savaria.
- •In 2008, remains of a Roman mithraeum, a temple dedicated to the god Mithras, were discovered near Szombathely.
- •The German name for Szombathely, Steinamanger, means 'stone on the green,' referring to the Roman ruins encountered by settlers.
History
Savaria, founded in 45 AD under Emperor Claudius, was the oldest Roman colonia in present-day Hungary and served as a provincial capital.
The city flourished during the Roman Empire, especially under Emperor Constantine the Great, who ended Christian persecutions there.
It suffered destruction during the Hunnic invasions in the 5th century and an earthquake in 456 AD.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Szombathely (formerly Savaria) was continuously inhabited, with its Roman heritage influencing medieval architecture.
The city was rebuilt after the Mongol invasion in the 13th century and granted Free royal town status in 1407.
It played a strategic role during Ottoman invasions and Habsburg conflicts, evolving into a cultural and administrative center in western Hungary.
Place Guide
Roman Colonia Exhibit1st century AD
This exhibit presents artifacts and reconstructions from the Roman founding of Savaria, including urban planning models, inscriptions, and everyday objects illustrating life in the colonia.
Mithraeum Remains3rd-4th century AD
Visitors can explore the archaeological remains of a mithraeum discovered in 2008, a temple dedicated to the mystery cult of Mithras that was active during the Roman period.
Saint Martin of Tours Section4th century AD
Dedicated to the life and legacy of Saint Martin, born in Savaria, this section includes religious artifacts, historical documents, and artworks celebrating the patron saint.
Temporary Art Exhibitions
The museum regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions, including works by regional and international artists, connecting the historical with the modern cultural scene.
Contact
Phone: (06 94) 500 720
