Lake Tisza Ecocentre
Hajdú-Bihar
The Lake Tisza Ecocentre, located in Poroszló, Hungary, is an innovative visitor center and wildlife exhibition dedicated to the natural environment of Lake Tisza and the Tisza River valley. Opened in 2012, it features Hungary's largest freshwater aquarium system with a total volume of 735,000 liters, displaying over 50 native fish species alongside amphibians and reptiles. The center's architecture, designed by Ybl Award-winning architect László Kertai, spans 2,600 square meters over four floors, offering immersive educational experiences including an underwater glass tunnel where visitors can observe large fish such as the endangered European catfish swimming overhead. Exhibitions also explore microscopic aquatic life, future environmental challenges, and interactive children's adventure zones. The Ecocentre serves as both a scientific and tourist hub, promoting conservation and sustainable tourism in the Lake Tisza region. Its outdoor areas include a leisure park and animal enclosures that complement the indoor displays, making it a comprehensive destination for nature lovers and families alike.
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Tip: Visit during spring and early summer for the best wildlife viewing and pleasant weather. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for group visits. The center offers discounts for groups and educational institutions. Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the extensive aquarium systems and interactive exhibits. The Ecocentre is accessible by car and local transport, with facilities suitable for families and school groups.
Interesting facts
- •Lake Tisza is Hungary's largest artificial lake, created by the Tisza Dam built in 1973.
- •The Ecocentre houses a 735,000-liter freshwater aquarium system, the largest in Hungary showcasing native fish species.
- •Visitors can walk through an underwater glass tunnel to observe large fish like the European catfish swimming overhead.
- •The Ecocentre combines tourism with conservation, supporting local biodiversity education and sustainable development.
- •It attracts international visitors from Slovakia, Poland, and Germany, besides domestic tourists.
History
Planning for the Lake Tisza Ecocentre began in 2003, inspired by research following environmental concerns such as the Tisza cyanide pollution incident.
The project aimed to create a unique European visitor center that integrates tourism with nature conservation.
Construction was completed in 2012 with significant European Union funding.
Since its opening, the Ecocentre has attracted over 200,000 visitors annually, becoming a key attraction in the Lake Tisza region and supporting local economic development through sustainable tourism.
Place Guide
Freshwater Aquarium System2012
A massive 735,000-liter aquarium displaying over 50 native fish species of Hungary and the region, including rare and protected species like the Hungarian mudminnow and the European catfish. The highlight is the underwater glass tunnel allowing visitors to experience aquatic life up close.
Amphibian and Reptile Exhibits2012
Displays on the ground floor featuring nearly 14 amphibian and 13 reptile species native to Hungary, providing insight into their habitats and conservation status.
Macro World Exhibition2012
An interactive exhibit on the first floor using microscopes, LCD screens, and glass floors to explore microscopic aquatic life and the hidden biodiversity of water ecosystems.
Enchanted Water World (Children's Adventure Zone)2012
A play and learning area designed for children combining fun and science, fostering early interest in aquatic ecology.
Outdoor Leisure Park and Animal Enclosures
Adjacent to the main building, these areas feature naturalistic habitats for local bird species such as cormorants, kingfishers, and roseate spoonbills, enhancing the visitor experience with live wildlife observation.
Contact
Phone: 06 30 277 5314
