Gyula

I have come to the realization that my time in Hungary is limited and there is so much more I want to do and see. One would think that almost a year would be plenty of time to do and see everything, but it just doesn't work that way. It seems like one day I was thinking "oh, I still have plenty of time for that" and the next was "oh my gosh! I am not going to be able to do everything!" One of the things I wanted to do, but kept putting off was visit Gyula, a small town about 15-20 minutes from Bekes. It is pretty well known for its bath; lots of German tourists come to take advantage of the baths and spas. It also boasts the most well-preserved brick castle in Hungary which dates from 1445.  Last Wednesday, Gabor drove Nora and I to the town after work so we could explore for a little while. The following pictures are what we saw.

 We started off the trip with a visit to the 100 Eves Cukraszda or 100 Year Old Cafe for some ice cream. These are pictures of the interior

Statue to Ferenc Erkel, the composer of the Hungarian National Anthem, who was born in Gyula

Me in the town center

Town Center 

 Gyula Castle - I didn't get to go inside, because by the time we got there after work it was closed. We'll see if we end up having time to go back! 

This stage, right by the Castle (you can see parts of it in the above pictures) is where the Gyula Shakespeare Festival takes place every summer. Play companies put on Shakespeare productions on the stage while the audience also sits on platforms above the water. Unfortunately, I will be travelling during the festival this year so I won't be able to attend or I absolutely would! It sounds awesome!