On 28-29 September, the historic centre of Veszprém, the renewed castle quarter, came alive to celebrate St Michael's Day. The autumn weather did not deter visitors: despite the chilly winds and clouds, hundreds turned out to be part of the multi-day, all-age programme. Visitors found exciting activities to suit all interests.
The Archbishop of Veszprém Tourist Centre prepared a special series of events for the weekend, which awaited guests for two days. The exhibitions in the Biró-Giczey House, the popular Work in Progress (WIP) walks and guided tours all contributed to the participants' discovery of the architectural and cultural treasures of Veszprém.
The central event of the weekend was the Sunday Holy Mass, which was celebrated by László Felföldi, Bishop of Pécs, at the Szentháromság Square. The uplifting atmosphere of the Holy Mass was a profound spiritual experience for the participants and a defining moment of the programme.
One of the main attractions of the weekend was the Cathedral of St Michael, where visitors were also able to visit the lower church. The altar church, which is currently a work site, was a real curiosity, as it shows how renovations are taking place and how one of the city's most beautiful sacred sites is coming back to life.
The renovated areas of the Archbishop's Palace have also been opened to visitors. As part of the full reconstruction planned for 2025, this weekend gave participants the opportunity to see the completed spaces. Visitors were not only able to admire the beautifully restored Baroque ceilings and walls, but also to gain an insight into the work of the restorers.
The children were entertained and educated with creative games from Ingenious Boxes and interactive activities from Mária Magdolna Bódi's Quiz. The Magdia of Children exhibition, which presented the life and legacy of Mary Magdalene Bódi through the eyes of children, was also very popular with families.
Another special feature of the weekend was the "Eavesdropping Discovery" audioguide programme, where visitors could interactively discover the hidden stories of the Cathedral. This special programme gave participants the opportunity to learn more about the religious and artistic significance of the church.
During the Work in Progress walks, visitors were also able to get a glimpse into corners that are inaccessible in everyday life, bringing the unique values of the Veszprém Castle District closer.
What made the event special was that St Michael's Day focused not only on the past, but also on the future. The presentation of the ongoing construction and renovation works served the dual purpose of preserving and nurturing the cultural and religious heritage of Veszprém.
The 2024 St Michael's Day celebrations proved to be a truly memorable event: a meeting of history, culture and religion, faithfully reflecting the roots of Veszprém's past and the innovative spirit of its present.
Photo: Lajos Nagy
