Pécs
Mysterious crypts from Roman times, cupolaed Turkish djamis, a slim minaret, exquisite Zsolnay ceramics, Csontváry paintings, decorative Vasarely patterns, almond trees blooming early in spring, atmospheric restaurants and cafés - this is Pécs, the 2000-year-old town with the Mediterranean climate and atmosphere at the southern foot of the Mecsek Hills. It has been a bishop's seat since 1009.
Pecs, which the Romans called Sopianae, was a significant centre of early Christianity: the 4th century "necropolis" consisting of 16 graves was acknowledged by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2000. Seven structures are still being excavated, and two monuments are open to the public: Hungary's most significant early Christian monument, the two-storey Ancient Christian Mausoleum (Szent István Square) with its wall paintings, and the remains of three sarcophagi. The Chapel (Jug Crypt), accessible from Dóm Square, has paintings on the wall, one of which depicts a jug.
The road to the top of the hill is bordered by the steep streets and nice old houses which lie on the hilly area of Pécs known as "Tettye"; it is a pleasant evening program to taste the hill's famous wines after hiking on the marked pathways in the Mecsek Park Forest. The 360ş panorama from the 525-meter-high Misina Peak is wonderful.
Visitors looking for curios or bargains should keep the following in mind: antique fairs are held the first Friday of every month, and every Saturday and Sunday there are flea markets and car markets. On Sundays there are animal fairs, as well.
