Published: December 19 2023
Near Lake Balaton in Hungary, there is a stunning abandoned castle located in the small village of Hajmáskér. This castle used to be a military base and has a deep history. Despite being in a state of disrepair, it is considered one of the most beautiful abandoned castles in Hungary.
The History of the Military Base
Back in the time of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, the military base in Hajmáskér was recommended by Emperor Franz Joseph for the construction of a future artillery training boot camp and shooting range. The base was built in the early 1900s and covered a vast area, with features such as a park, lake, stables, ammunition depot, workshops, hospital, and even modern facilities like a slaughterhouse and wastewater treatment plant. Its construction was completed within an impressive three years.
Events After WWI and WWII
After World War I, a part of the military base was converted into a prison for prisoners of war. During World War II, the base was occupied by the Germans and later by the Russians. Unfortunately, over time, the base started deteriorating, with the lake draining and the buildings falling into disrepair.
Abandonment and Current State
In 1990, when the troops were withdrawn, the base changed hands multiple times, but no substantial renovation efforts were made. As a result, the castle remains abandoned and is gradually being reclaimed by nature.
Visiting the Abandoned Castle
Despite its state of disrepair, the abandoned castle in Hajmáskér offers a unique and picturesque setting for exploration. Visitors can witness the remnants of the once-grand military complex and appreciate its historical significance and architectural features.
Within a short distance of Lake Balaton, this abandoned castle is a must-visit destination for those interested in history and exploring hidden gems.
Questions & Answers
What is the name of the village where the abandoned castle is located? The abandoned castle is located in Hajmáskér, a small village near Lake Balaton in Hungary.
How far is Hajmáskér from Lake Balaton? Hajmáskér is only 14 kilometers away from Lake Balaton.
Which city is Hajmáskér close to? Hajmáskér is quite close to Veszprém, a city in Hungary.
What was the original purpose of the military base in Hajmáskér? The military base in Hajmáskér was originally built as a future artillery military base during the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. It was meant to be the biggest artillery training boot camp and shooting range in all of Europe.
When was the military base built in Hajmáskér? The military base in Hajmáskér was built in the early 1900s, after the land was bought in 1901 by the crown for 1.8 million Crowns.
Who were the architects responsible for the planning and building of the military base in Hajmáskér? The architects responsible for the military base in Hajmáskér were Márton Kondor and József Feledi.
What were some of the facilities within the military base in Hajmáskér? The military base in Hajmáskér had various facilities including a stable for housing horses, an ammunition depot, workshops, a hospital, a school, a theater, as well as modern facilities such as a slaughterhouse, a dairy, refrigeration house, and wastewater treatment plant.
What happened to the military base during World War I and World War II? During World War I, part of the military base was turned into a prison for prisoners of war. In World War II, the Germans took over the command of the base during their occupation, and later the Russians arrived and stayed for a while.
What is the condition of the military base in Hajmáskér today? The military base in Hajmáskér has been left in disrepair over the years and has never been fully renovated. It stands abandoned, allowing nature to reclaim its walls.
