The spa town
The spa Town of Harkány – at the foot of the Tenkes Hill and near the Villány Hills in Baranya County lies a sunny small town with a legend that might seem unbelievable, but its natural treasures are unbeatable. Have you ever heard of a place where wine, adventure, culture, thermal water, and wellness are all within arm’s reach? With its natural and cultural features, Harkány is a truly unique destination in Hungary.
Harkányfürdő is not only one of the most significant and beautiful thermal spa locations in the country but was also awarded the title of “Bath of the Year” in 2019.
The crystal-clear air, abundant sunshine, excellent natural resources, thermal water, and Mediterranean climate heal and rejuvenate both body and soul alike.
The town’s microclimate is unique, with 20 percent more sunshine hours annually than the national average. As a result, plants like figs and pomegranates have become native here.
The town and its surroundings offer an exceptionally rich and colorful program for visitors.
Explore the attractions and leisure activities available in the area HERE.
The annual hours of sunshine here are 20 percent higher than the national average, enabling plants like figs and pomegranates to thrive.
The city and its surroundings promise an exceptionally rich and colorful program for visitors.
Sights in Harkány
Catholic Church and Church Garden
In the 19th century, the growing Catholic population of Harkány and the high number of Catholic visitors to the thermal bath necessitated the construction of a church. As a result, the Catholic chapel was built in 1906, enabling local Roman Catholics and visitors to practice their faith.
The chapel was consecrated in the same year in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
The growing population and increasing number of visitors made it necessary to enlarge the chapel.
Construction began based on József Holczer’s designs and was completed, with the church being consecrated on October 22, 1988, in the presence of thousands of faithful. Visitors can admire the Stations of the Cross, enamel works by László Morvai on the outer walls, and learn about major events in Hungarian history in the church garden.
Reformed Church
The late Baroque, Rococo-style Reformed Church stands on the main street of this spa town.
The Harkány Reformed congregation began building the church on March 21, 1798.
The structure, adorned with a pyramidal spire, was completed in 1802. It houses three bells and an eight-register organ. Its communion vessels include two zinc pitchers and plates from 1820 and two chalices and plates from 1833. Next to the church stands a bust of Mihály Sztárai, a notable figure of the Hungarian Reformation associated with nearby Siklós. A unique feature of this church is the stork’s nest on its spire, built with the help of locals reinforcing the structure with iron rods.
Terehegyi Reformed Church
Built in 1798 and protected as a historic monument, the Terehegyi Reformed Church is located on a small hill in the Terehegyi district. It replaced an earlier wooden church constructed in 1761. Situated at the corner of Terehegyi and Ostoros Streets, the Rococo-style church is surrounded by landscaped gardens. Its wooden ceiling, choir railings, pews, and the pulpit are decorated with Baroque elements and paintings. The church houses four bells and an 18th-century Rococo organ brought from Pécsvárad, which is considered unique in Europe.
The church was renovated in 1988.
Zsigmondy Promenade and Old Park
This postcard from the 1930s shows the original Harkány Wellhouse. It has been reconstructed entirely to its original design, offering a piece of history for future generations.
Harkány’s largest old park was completely renewed in 2019 as part of the “More Livable Future – Green Downtown Harkány” project.
During the development, new pavement was laid along the walkways, including paths leading to the Heart of Jesus Church and its garden, making it easier for visitors to view the stunning enamel Stations of the Cross found there.
Additionally, a modern fountain, an open-air stage, vendor pavilions, and a new Wellhouse—reconstructed from a 1930s-era postcard—were built.
A nature trail featuring quotes from Albert Wass, along with a three-generational playground meeting 21st-century standards, was also created, catering to families with children.
Harka Fountain
Located opposite the southern entrance of the renowned Harkány Thermal Bath, the Harka Fountain symbolizes the legend of Harkány’s water. Built in 2000 to commemorate the new millennium, it is a source of pride and joy for locals and tourists alike.
The beautiful fountain was crafted by the famous Zsolnay manufactory in Pécs, known for its iconic green eosin material, showcasing their exceptional craftsmanship once again.
Millennium Apple Fountain
Located next to the Harkány Cultural Center, the Millennium Apple Fountain was erected in 2000. Created by Vajda László and Kamerer Tamás, this stunning work of art also comes from the Zsolnay manufactory in Pécs.