A Name Steeped in History

The Hungarian name Sárvár literally means "mud castle" (sár = mud, vár = castle) – a nod to the town's medieval roots. It’s a fitting name for a place where nature and nobility have long shaped its identity. In earlier centuries, the town was also known by its German names Kotenburg or Rotenturm an der Raab, the Latin Bassiana, and the Slovene Mala Sela – a reflection of its multicultural past.

A Town with a Complex Past

Sárvár’s role in 20th-century history is both poignant and significant. During World War II, it served first as a refuge for Polish soldiers in 1939, but later became the site of a concentration camp. In 1941, thousands of Serb families were deported from northern Serbia and interned here by Hungarian forces. Today, a memorial and cemetery honour the many victims who lost their lives in the camp, offering a space for reflection and remembrance.

Nádasdy Castle: Legacy of Power and Print

At the heart of Sárvár lies the striking Nádasdy Castle, once the stronghold of the influential Nádasdy family. In the 16th and 17th centuries, this noble family played a vital role in Hungary's cultural development. The first Hungarian-printed book, the New Testament of 1541, was published here.

Inside the castle, visitors can admire a richly decorated Knight's Hall adorned with scenes from the Old Testament and epic battles involving Lord Chief Justice Ferenc Nádasdy – husband of the infamous Countess Elizabeth Báthory. The castle now houses the Ferenc Nádasdy Museum, which showcases rare cultural artefacts and historical exhibitions.

Sárvár’s royal connections continued into the 20th century, when the estate became the property of the Bavarian royal family. The exiled King Ludwig III of Bavaria spent his final years here, passing away in the castle in 1921. His son, Prince Franz of Bavaria, ran a stud farm on the estate until he was expropriated in 1945. The castle’s storied past includes visits from Ludwig’s grandson, Prince Albert, who lived in exile in Budapest during WWII.

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Natural Beauty & Thermal Wellness

Beyond its historic monuments, Sárvár is famed for its medicinal spa, drawing visitors from across Europe.

The town’s arboretum, park forest, and tranquil Csónakázó Lake offer peaceful outdoor experiences, while the Baroque church adds architectural charm to the town centre.

Why Visit?

Whether you're a history enthusiast, wellness traveller, or simply curious about Hungary’s lesser-known gems, Sárvár offers a rewarding mix of heritage and hospitality. Its thermal baths provide healing and relaxation, while its castle and cultural sites invite you to step into centuries of Central European history.

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