Iconic Art Nouveau Hotel Reborn in Pécs

  • 23 Feb 2026 7:14 AM
  • Hungary Around the Clock
Iconic Art Nouveau Hotel Reborn in Pécs
The iconic Art Nouveau-style Palatinus Grand Hotel in downtown Pécs reopened late last year after an extensive renovation that began in 2020, Portfolio writes.

The renovation of the hotel, inaugurated in 1915, aimed to preserve the building’s historical value while meeting modern tourism and functional standards.

The hotel received a Ft 3.5 billion grant for the project from the Hungarian Tourism Agency’s Kisfaludy hotel development plan.

The hotel, which is operating in a trial phase, offers 85 rooms in the four-star superior category, along with a restaurant, wellness area, and event spaces.

It also focuses on business tourism, with five conference rooms, as well as a rooftop terrace with a seasonal pop-up bar.

10 Fun Facts about Pécs: one of Hungary’s most culturally rich cities

1. It’s One of Hungary’s Oldest Cities

Pécs was founded by the Romans in the 2nd century under the name Sopianae. Its Early Christian Necropolis is so significant that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Hungary’s First University Was Founded Here

In 1367, King Louis the Great established Hungary’s first university in Pécs — centuries before Budapest became the capital.

3. European Capital of Culture

In 2010, Pécs was named European Capital of Culture, highlighting its vibrant arts scene, architecture, and multicultural history.

4. You’ll Find a Mosque in the Main Square

The stunning Pasha Qasim Mosque sits on Széchenyi Square. It’s a reminder of the 150 years of Ottoman rule in Hungary — and today it functions as a Catholic church.

 5. Famous for Zsolnay Ceramics

Pécs is home to the world-renowned Zsolnay Porcelain Manufactory, known for its colorful eosin-glazed ceramics. The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter is now a creative arts district built around the old factory.

6. One of the Sunniest Cities in Hungary

Thanks to its southern location near the Croatian border, Pécs enjoys a mild climate and lots of sunshine — giving it a Mediterranean vibe.

7. Surrounded by Wine Country

Pécs lies near the Villány Wine Region, one of Hungary’s top red wine areas, famous for Cabernet Franc.

8. Mecsek Hills Backdrop

The city sits at the foot of the Mecsek mountains, making it ideal for hiking with panoramic views over the city.

9. Strong Balkan Influence

Because of its location close to Croatia and Serbia, Pécs has a noticeable Balkan cultural influence — especially in cuisine and architecture.

10. A True University & Arts City Today

Modern Pécs is lively thanks to the University of Pécs, which attracts many international students — giving the city a youthful, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
 

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