Szépasszony Valley
Heves
Szépasszony Valley, located near the city of Eger in Hungary, is the largest continuous wine cellar area in the region, boasting nearly 200 cellars carved into riolittufa rock. This geological feature provides natural temperature regulation ideal for wine storage at a constant 10-15°C. The valley's origins date back to the 18th century when cellar construction was authorized by the local bishop, fostering a thriving wine market. The area is deeply intertwined with the fame of Egri Bikavér (Bull's Blood of Eger), a celebrated Hungarian red wine. Over centuries, the valley has evolved into a vibrant cultural and touristic hub, hosting festivals and preserving traditional winemaking practices. Its cellars are uniquely different from other Hungarian wine regions, being underground rather than above-ground stone or brick structures. Today, Szépasszony Valley is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and cultural tourists, offering atmospheric cellar tours and tastings within a picturesque setting.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Szépasszony Valley is during the summer months or around the August 20th festival, which celebrates local wine culture. It is advisable to purchase tickets or book wine tastings in advance during peak seasons. Visitors can benefit from group discounts and should wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the cellar streets. The valley is accessible by a 10-15 minute walk from Eger city center, making it convenient for day visits.
Faits intéressants
- •Szépasszony Valley contains nearly 200 wine cellars carved into riolittufa rock, a unique geological formation that naturally maintains ideal wine storage temperatures.
- •The valley is the historic home of Egri Bikavér, Hungary's most famous red wine blend.
- •The cellar district was originally owned by the bishop of Eger, and permission was required to carve new cellars.
- •The underground cellar system in Eger is approximately 130 kilometers long, making it one of the largest in Hungary.
- •The tradition of visiting multiple cellars for wine tasting, called 'bandázás', dates back to the 18th century and involved social gatherings exclusively for men.
Histoire
The earliest documented cellars in Szépasszony Valley date back to 1774, established under the authorization of the bishop of Eger to support growing wine production and storage needs.
By 1781, there were already 32 wine cellars recorded.
The valley's cellar network expanded significantly after World War II, especially following land reforms.
The region's viticulture was historically influenced by Italian and Walloon settlers in the 13th century.
Despite setbacks such as the 1886 phylloxera epidemic, the area has continuously evolved, maintaining its status as a cradle of Egri Bikavér.
The valley's name is surrounded by legends, including associations with a pagan goddess of love and local folklore about a beautiful woman selling wine in one of the cellars.
Guide du lieu
Old Cellar Row (Öregsor)1774
The oldest part of Szépasszony Valley, established in 1774, featuring a series of historic underground wine cellars authorized by the bishop. This area offers a glimpse into traditional cellar architecture and early wine storage methods.
Central Festival Park2000
A landscaped park area built in 2000 that serves as the main gathering point for visitors, featuring sculptures by artists Debreczeni Zsóka and Pelc Zoltán, including the 'Szépasszony' statue and Bacchus on a barrel.
Underground Cellar Network
A vast system of underground cellars carved into volcanic tuff, unique to Northern Hungary, used historically for wine storage and aging. The network spans approximately 130 km beneath Eger and its surroundings.