The Castle District of Veszprém has been at the heart of the city’s history for over a thousand years. As you stroll among the buildings perched on the steep castle hill, the Middle Ages, the Baroque era, and the cultural life of the modern city all come to life side by side. One of the most notable Baroque buildings on Vár Street is the Biró–Giczey House, which today hosts exhibitions and tourist programs. It is a great starting point for anyone wishing to explore the history and artistic heritage of Veszprém’s ecclesiastical center.
This 18th-century residential building was constructed in 1772. The rooms of the former residence currently house the
“Thistle and Lily – The Flowers of the Magdolnas”
exhibition.
A soft glow envelops the exhibition, which presents the figure of Mary Magdalene and the artistic tradition of her veneration through works from the Archdiocesan Collection of Blessed Gisela. The thistle and lily mentioned in the title are important symbols of the Christian symbolism associated with Mary Magdalene.
Multiple exhibitions in one building
Several themed exhibitions await visitors at the Biró–Giczey House. These include
an interactive exhibition on the history of the Veszprém Chapter
materials showcasing the history of St. Michael’s Cathedral
as well as archaeological finds and historical documents
Together, the various exhibitions provide a brief yet comprehensive overview of the history of the Diocese of Veszprém and the castle district.
Guided tours:
The Biró–Giczey House is one of the main meeting points for programs in the Castle District. This is where guided castle tours begin, during which a docent introduces visitors to the buildings on Vár Street, the history of the episcopal center, and the castle’s most important religious monuments.
During the tours, visitors can learn more about, among other things,
the history of St. Michael’s Cathedral
the frescoes in the Gisela Chapel
as well as the Veszprém Archbishop’s Palace and other buildings on Vár Street
Guided tours usually depart at various times on weekends. You can find information about current tours and schedules here:
8200 Veszprém, 31 Vár Street
Opening hours
Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Admission to the exhibitions is free.
