About 45 km (28 miles) south of Kalocsa, on the banks of the city of Danube, is Baja, a humble town which has not received much international attention to date. Known as a holiday spot for locals, it is also a town known for being a sports hub. During the summer, tourists can enjoy an array of beaches or explore the city, to enjoy the atmosphere around. Below are some popular things to do while in Baja.
1. St Nicolas Serbian Orthodox Church
Of the three churches of the Serb population in Baja, only two remain. The St Nicolas Serbian Orthodox Church is known to be the oldest church built in honour of St. Nicholas. The church features late Baroque features and the external architecture of the cathedral is highly impressive. Although not much has been written about the cathedral on the internet, it is a treasure worth visiting, as it is only one of the two Serbian churches remaining in the city.
St Nicolas Serbian Orthodox Church
Address: Miklos utca 8 | Miklós u. 8, Baja 6500, Hungary
2. Turr Istvan Muzeum
The Turr Istvan Museum is home to a rich and kaleidoscopic variety of material, including works that depict how Baja was, as a city during prehistoric times all the way up to the Second World War. Here, you can learn more about the city’s natural history, as well as the people who have lived on the banks of the river in the area.
This museum is a place where one can learn much of Hungary’s history. The entrance of the museum features a statue of the sea-god, Neptune and some permanent exhibits inside include “Life on the Danube - Fishing Exhibition” and “Baja 300 Years of City - Baja History Exhibition”, as well as the folk history of Baja.
Turr Istvan Muzeum
Address: Baja, Deák Ferenc utca 1., 6500 Hungary
Website: Turr Istvan Muzeum
3. Trinity Square
One of the major sights in Baja is definitely Holy Trinity Square. The area has been built in the Mediterranean style, with a town hall and buildings in this style, as well. Located in the historic downtown, the neo-Renaissance buildings are beautifully decorated and the square is in close proximity to the riverside, which is extremely scenic.
Trinity Square
Address: Baja 6500, Hungary
Website: Trinity Square
4. Gemenc Forest
Visitors looking to do a day trip out of Baja can explore the option of going to Gemenc. Gemenc is a unique forest, located between Szekszárd and Baja. What is interesting is that Gemenc is known to be the sole tidal area of the Danube. Lots of flora and fauna can be found in this area, including wildlife like stags, boars, storks and meadow eagles. Several amphibians and reptiles are also said to be found in this area and, as there are several water bodies in and around the area, many fish species can be found here, as well.
Gemenc
Address: 7142 Pörböly, Bajai út 100
Website: Gemenc
5. Jelky Andras Szobor Statue
It does not take much effort to get a sighting of this prominent statue. As you walk along one of the busiest streets of Baja, specifically between Roads 51 and 55, the crossroads of the city centre, you will be able to spot the highly acclaimed statue of the Baja-born tailor, András Jelky, standing on a globe, in the square named after him.
This statue was constructed in celebration of Andras’ life and adventures, especially because he was widely travelled. In this statue, he is standing on the globe, with a stick in hand and a hat on his head.
Jelky Andras Szobor Statue
Address: Jelky Ter, Baja 6500, Hungary
Website: Jelky Andras Szobor Statue
6. Baja Synagogue
The Baja Synagogue is one of the most amazing monuments in the city of Baja and the library of the town is situated inside this building. As the existing structure of the building was not able to be reshaped to fit a library, much of the original structure has been retained. The galleries of the original synagogue have also been preserved.
Places in the synagogue which have been restored are the lavatory, which can be found in the entrance hall, the ornate donation-box and the Torah shrine in the ark. Some devotional items which were originally in the synagogue have been preserved and displayed here, as well.
Baja Synagogue
Address: Baja, Munkácsy Mihály u. 9, 6500 Hungary
Website: Baja Synagogue
7. Domorkapu Temeto
This is a cemetery in Baja, which was once neglected. This cemetery was then renovated by Gergelyné Csibi and his family, making it a well-maintained place. After its renovation, Domorkapu Temeto is now worth a visit for visitors, when exploring the interior of the city. The government of Vemend provides continuous care for the site.
Domorkapu Temeto
Address: Polgármesteri hivatal Cím: 7726 Véménd, Tavasz utca 1
Website: Domorkapu Temeto
8. Grassalkovich-kastely
Grassalkovich-kastely is a fabulous castle, known to be the recreation of the Grassalkovich Castle, in Hatvan. This renovated castle is now the town hall of the city and reflects Italian Renaissance style. It was rebuilt in 1896 and a plaque, symbolising the release of the city from feudal dependency, can be found in the assembly hall.
There is a unique stained glass window here, as well, which depicts Adam and Eve with the coat of arms of the town and this can be found in the stairway. The yard of the Town Hall holds classical and pop music concerts on summer evenings.
Grassalkovich-kastely
Address: 6500 Baja, Szentháromság tér 1
Website: Grassalkovich-kastely
Enjoy Baja at its best
With so many varied options to explore in Baja, it is worthwhile adding the city into your itinerary, when visiting Hungary. With options for indoor and outdoor activities, people of all ages will be kept entertained.