The assembly, held last weekend, celebrated ancient traditions.

In remarks made at the opening of the assembly, House Speaker László Kövér said the psyche of the Hungarian people originates in the East. Hungarians are the westernmost people from the East and will never forget their Eastern brethren, he added.

Kövér said Kurultáj sends the message that millions of Hungarians expect state and scholarly institutions funded with taxpayer money to support, rather than restrict, Hungarian cultural self-determination in the 21st century.

Nearly 400 groups showcased traditions they have preserved to visitors to Bugac. The first Kurultáj was held ten years ago and has since become the largest cultural event of its kind.

MTI Photo: Ujvári Sándor