First centre of the Arpads – Upper-Tisza Region (Karos Visitor Centre of the Age of Land-taking)
Fact of the Hungarian figure „Myth of the Hungarian land-taking – Ópusztaszer”
Part of the „The story of the beginning” topic
The Upper-Tisza Region, located in northeastern Hungary, played a crucial role as one of the earliest centers of power for the Árpád dynasty during the first half of the 10th century. This area, strategically located and rich in natural resources, served as a key political and military hub during the formative years of the Hungarian state. The hypothesis that the Upper Tisza region functioned as a central seat of power during this period remains widely accepted, supported by significant archaeological findings.
The cemeteries in the Upper Tisza region, with their unique composition and a notable surplus of male burials, provide compelling evidence of the military retinue that likely served the early Hungarian princes. These graves, often richly furnished with weapons and badges of dignity, suggest the presence of a warrior class closely associated with the Árpád leaders. However, the interpretation of these cemeteries as belonging exclusively to the prince’s military retinue requires a nuanced approach. The Upper Tisza region itself is not a homogeneous entity but rather can be divided into smaller, distinct areas, each with its own characteristics.
These small cemeteries, or clusters of cemeteries, often located just 100-150 meters apart, extend from the borders of Tiszaeszlár and Rakamaz through the Bodrogköz to the Tiszahát. The western and central parts of the Mezőség and the Rétköz, however, show distinct differences in the burial practices and the composition of the communities. Additionally, a peculiar group of small cemeteries from the early 10th century has been identified in the Bereg and Satu Mare regions, as well as possibly in Kolozsvár. These richly endowed small communities, likely settled by the prince’s will, were strategically placed among the Slavic groups in areas stretching from the Bodrogköz to Kolozsvár.
This distribution of cemeteries reflects a broader strategy of the Árpád rulers to assert their control over various regions and integrate diverse ethnic groups under their dominion. The Upper Tisza region, with its complex network of settlements and cemeteries, served as a critical base for the consolidation of Árpád power. It was from here that the early Hungarian leaders managed tribal affairs, planned military campaigns, and expanded their influence across the Carpathian Basin.
While the royal seat eventually moved to other locations like Esztergom and Buda, the Upper Tisza region’s significance in the early history of Hungary remains undisputed. This region, with its richly furnished graves and strategic importance, symbolizes the origins of the Hungarian state and the enduring legacy of the Árpád dynasty in shaping the nation’s early history.
The Karos Visitor Centre of the Age of Land-taking, located in the Upper-Tisza region, offers an immersive experience into this pivotal period of Hungarian history. Situated near the archaeological sites where significant 10th-century cemeteries were discovered, the centre provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the Árpád dynasty’s early settlement and military activities. Exhibits at the centre showcase the rich artifacts unearthed from the graves, including weapons, horse harnesses, and ornate items that reflect the wealth and status of the buried individuals. Through interactive displays and detailed reconstructions, the Karos Visitor Centre brings to life the era of the Hungarian conquest, illustrating how the Upper-Tisza region served as a cradle for the emerging Hungarian state. The centre not only preserves the heritage of the Árpád dynasty but also educates the public about the complexities of early Hungarian society, offering insights into the blend of cultural influences and strategic decisions that shaped the formation of Hungary.
