Matthias Corvinus of Hungary — A Ruler Straddling Two Epochs

His courtly representation, international Gothicism, and the reception of the Renaissance in Hungary can be considered Matthias’ most brilliant achievements, which were also highly appreciated by his contemporaries. It is undoubtedly a unique phenomenon of 15th-century Hungarian history that the Italian Renaissance had such a great impact in the country.

The statue of Bálint Balassi in Kodály Körönd, Budapest.

The Life of Bálint Balassi, a Classic Figure in Hungarian Poetry

Baron Bálint Balassi de Kékkő et Gyarmat is celebrated as the pioneer of Hungarian romantic poetry, a valiant soldier, a daring lover and an accomplished polyglot. His life and achievements embody the true spirit of the Renaissance, and read like a tale of romance, valour, and fighting spirit.

Budapest Central European Fashion Week to Highlight Emerging Designers

On 2 and 3 September, collections from 39 brands will be showcased at Millenáris Park, featuring creations not only from 24 Hungarian fashion designers, but also from Ukrainian, Romanian, Czech, Polish, Slovak, and Serbian creators. The event places importance on presenting regional brands alongside local ones, which is reinforced by the presence of international press, influencers, and buyers.

Slovakia’s President Zuzana Caputova (C-R) poses for a picture during the appointment ceremony of new Slovak Prime Minister Ludovit Odor (C-L) in Bratislava, Slovakia on May 15, 2023. (Photo by VLADIMIR SIMICEK / AFP)

Slovak PM Lajos Ódor Takes Jab at PM Orbán, Fidesz MP Savagely Responds

Lajos Ódor, who was appointed Prime Minister by the President of Slovakia in May in the midst of a political crisis, made some statements in a public discussion at a festival which suggested that Viktor Orbán is isolated on the world stage in his views. Fidesz MP Tamás Menczer reacted in a poignant Facebook post.

Tug of War by Nikolya Bogdanov-Belsky (1939).

Georgia’s Energy Relations with Hungary Might be the Key to Its Future in the European Union

‘Hungary’s support for Georgia makes sense in a number of ways. With both nations having brutal histories of Russian domination, Hungary understands the struggles Georgia has had in coming out of Moscow’s shadow after so many years behind the Iron Curtain. While Hungary offers support to a fellow former communist satellite state to realise a future better than its past, Georgia offers Hungary and Europe the resources needed to maintain that future.’

The Ukrainian Puzzle—A Review of Áron Máthé’s New Book

‘The Ukrainian Puzzle: Hungary’s Perspective on a Changing Neighbour’ is a book that intends to present the Hungarian perspective on Ukraine to the Ukrainian and international public, arguing that this perspective has not changed ever since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1991. While it is hard to disagree with the main idea of the book, the methodology employed to convey it leaves something to be desired.

Pesti Magyar Theatre — The First Hungarian Theatre

In August 1837, Pest’s first permanent, Hungarian-language theatre opened at the Astoria, with the performance of Hungarian poet Mihály Vörösmarty’s drama Árpád ébredése (The Awakening of Árpád)—this was the first period of the Pesti Magyar Theatre, which later became the National Theatre.

Inflation: Europe’s Feverish Economy

It is important to remember that, compared to the stable period of 2017–2018, some 80 per cent of the rise in inflation in Hungary could be attributed to external circumstances, and only 20 per cent to strictly domestic reasons. Taking into account the ambivalent effects of the war situation and the ensuing sanctions, these rates are likely to remain important determinants of inflation developments in 2023.