Today, we celebrated my mum’s birthday, and to make it extra special, we decided to visit a medieval restaurant in Boldogkőváralja. The drive from Sátoraljaújhely was scenic and lovely; the landscape was beautiful, and we really enjoyed the ride. During the trip, I chatted with my parents about everyday life, politics, family matters, and our usual habits.
However, there was one problem—there were a lot more people than I expected. I’m not sure why, but it made things a bit tricky. I had to park as close to the restaurant as possible since my dad can’t walk long distances anymore due to weak legs. So, I parked at the top of the hill, and we managed to walk down to the bottom of the castle, where the restaurant was located.
I have to say, the restaurant was excellent. The portions were generous and delicious, and the food really captured the medieval style. It was a great feeling to be in such a unique and special place. Towards the end of the meal, we had some fun: my wife put on a medieval armor helmet and grabbed a plastic silver sword, pretending to be a knight. I took some pictures of her—she looked adorable, even in the armor.
It was such an intimate moment to share with my wife and my parents. Afterward, we headed back to my parents’ house, where we spent some more time chatting in the garden. It was a wonderful day, filled with good food, laughter, and memorable moments.
The value of cherishing family moments—how special and meaningful it is to spend time with my loved ones, creating memories that strengthen our bonds and bring us joy.
If you want to know more on this castle, here is an extended description:
The Boldogkő Castle is a historical landmark located in the village of Boldogkőváralja, situated in the northeastern part of Hungary, near the town of Szerencs, in the Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County. The castle stands atop a hill, offering a commanding view of the surrounding landscape and has been an important feature of the region for centuries.
The Boldogkő Castle was originally built in the 13th century, likely during the reign of King Béla IV, who encouraged the construction of many fortifications to protect Hungary from Mongol invasions. The structure is an example of a medieval fortress, designed to provide defense and control over the nearby valley.
Throughout its history, the castle has undergone several modifications and repairs, particularly after being damaged in the 16th century during the period of the Ottoman wars in Hungary. Despite this, it continued to serve as an important stronghold for various noble families, particularly the Boldogkő family, who gave the castle its name.
The castle is characterized by its rectangular layout, featuring a central courtyard surrounded by defensive walls and towers. The keep, or central stronghold, was the primary residential area for the noble family and served as the last line of defense in times of siege. The structure also included various outbuildings and facilities for the castle’s garrison and staff.
Over time, the castle’s strategic importance waned, and it was eventually abandoned. Today, it stands as a historical ruin, with significant parts of its walls, towers, and gates still visible. The castle remains a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Hungary’s medieval past.
Restoration work on the site began in the late 20th century, and efforts continue to preserve and stabilize the remains of the castle. The Boldogkő Castle is also known for hosting events, such as medieval reenactments, festivals, and other cultural activities, which help bring its rich history to life for modern audiences.