Gliding, history and nature in one
In the southern part of Baranya County, at the foot of the Villányi Mountains, lies Siklós, a small town that has preserved its unique atmosphere and architectural heritage amidst the storms of history. Situated among the rolling hills of Southern Transdanubia, at the border of the plain and the mountainous region, the settlement was already inhabited in Roman times. The fertility of the region, the mild climate and the proximity of the springs created ideal conditions for human settlement.
The name of Siklós first appears in a charter dated 1294, but archaeological finds show that the area was inhabited much earlier. In the Middle Ages, the settlement came into the possession of the Gutmann family, who rebuilt the castle in the 15th century in Gothic style, which has become the symbol of the town to this day. King Matthias also visited the walls of the Siklós Castle, who stayed here briefly in 1469. During the Turkish occupation, the castle served as an important border castle, and successfully defended the region from Turkish attacks several times. The castle also played an important role during the Rákóczi War of Independence, and was also owned by the Kuruc. After the fall of the War of Independence, the castle lost its military importance, and was rebuilt in Baroque style in the 18th century.
The Siklós Castle now operates as a museum, and presents the history of the town and the castle. Visitors can see the medieval castle walls, the Gothic and Baroque style rooms, as well as the exhibitions in the castle. In the shade of the more than 200-year-old plane tree in the castle courtyard, visitors can relax and enjoy the view of the town and the surrounding landscape.
In addition to the Siklós Castle, another landmark of the town is the Franciscan monastery and church, which was built in the 18th century. The Baroque style church and the associated monastery, a beautifully renovated building complex, is located in the center of the town. The interior of the church is richly decorated, the main altar is Baroque style, and frescoes can be seen on the walls of the church. Franciscan monks still live in the monastery today, who play an important role in the spiritual life of the town.
Siklós and its surroundings also have many natural beauties. The slopes of the Villányi Mountains are ideal for hiking and trekking. There are several viewpoints in the mountains, from which there is a beautiful view of the landscape. The Villányi wine region, which extends around Siklós, is famous for its red wines. There are many wine cellars and wineries in the wine region, where visitors can taste local wines and learn about the traditions of winemaking.
Next to the town is the Máriagyűd pilgrimage site, which is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Catholics in Hungary. The Baroque style church was built in the 18th century, and Paulist monks still live in the associated monastery today. The pilgrimage site is famous for its miraculous healings, and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
Siklós and its surroundings are therefore not only rich in historical and cultural sights, but also have natural beauties. The town is an ideal starting point for exploring the Villányi Mountains and the wine region, as well as visiting the Máriagyűd pilgrimage site. There are several accommodations and restaurants in the town, where visitors can comfortably stay and taste local specialties. Siklós is a place where history, culture and nature meet in harmony, and where everyone can find the most suitable pastime for themselves.