Orosháza

Békés county is located in the south- east of Hungary, adjoining the Romanian border. The town of Orosháza can be found in the westernmost area of Békés county, lying in the so- called Békési- hát (Békési eminence), which is bordered by The Körös and Maros Rivers. Orosháza is the second most populated and most industrialised town of Békés county. The town's economy has a dual character: although agriculture plays a significant role owing to the favourable local conditions, the town is primarily known for its industries. The development of the town is facilitated by good road and rail connections, a favourable geographical location, as well as the proximity of the Romanian and Yugoslavian borders.

In the course of the last ten years Orosháza has undergone rapid economic development, which has resulted in the town obtaining a leading role in the region. It has become the centre of the Orosháza Micro- Region with 10 settlements and a population of 65 thousand people. Besides being the most developed settlement in the region, Orosháza may also be regarded as a significant educational, cultural and entertainment centre.

Important sights of Orosháza include the Szántó Kovács jános Museum, the Darvas Literary Memorial Mansion, and the Town Gallery. The literary collection of the country has been established in a building adjacent to the memorial residence. The town centre is dominated by the building of the Lutheran Church, a listed monument built from 1777 to 1830 in late baroque style. In front of the altar of the church visitors may view a famous bell, brought to Orosháza by the first settlers of the town arriving from the settlement of Zomba. The streets of the town are given a pleasant character by various statutes and monuments, including the statute of Szent István (St. Stephen, the first Hungarian King) by László Rajki, as well as several works of art by János Horvay and János Pásztor.

The only museum in Hungary entirely dedicated to preserving the heritage of wells may also be found of Orosháza. The museums collection displays various types of wells dating from the last 100 years. Another place of special interest is the Rágyánszky Arboretum, where visitors may study approximately 6.000 variations of plants belonging to 2.000 species.

World- famous features of Orosháza and its surroundings are the flock of Hungarian long- wooled sheep and the herd of the protected Hungarian long- horned grey cattle, both raised in their natural habits and grazing on the saline grasslands around the town. Orosháza and the popular spa and holiday resort of Gyopárosfürdő provide a venue for a number of cultural events and other forms of entertainment each year. Well- established events include the poultry festival, the National Bread Festival, the International Competition for Model- Boat Enthusiasts, The Orosháza Summer Cultural Festival, the International Equestrian Championships, each organised annually, as well as the International Festival for Veteran Cars organised every second year.

The International Meeting of Falconers organised annually by the Hungarian Falconers' Association provides a unique experience: visitors may view a special exhibition and attend an interesting show with birds of prey.