# Dédestapolcsány

Dédestapolcsány is a village in Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén county, Hungary, situated at the foothills of the Bükk Mountains. The village is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical landmarks.

## Etymology

Dédes comes from a Slavic personal name Deduš derived from dědъ. Dedus (1240).
Tapolcsány comes from Slovak/Slavic Topoľčany (Slovak: topoľ - poplar tree, see also Topoľčany) or Tepličany (hot spring or stream, see also Tepličany, now a part of Družstevná pri Hornáde). Tapolchan (1438).

## Geography and Nature of Dédestapolcsány

Dédestapolcsány is located in northern Hungary, within Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County, at the foothills of the Bükk Mountains. The village is surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and limestone formations, making it a scenic and ecologically rich area.

### Bükk National Park and Natural Beauty

* The village is situated near Bükk National Park, Hungary’s largest national park, which spans over 43,000 hectares.
* The region is known for its karst landscape, featuring caves, sinkholes, and limestone cliffs, as well as vast beech forests that support a diverse ecosystem.
* The park is home to rare wildlife, including Eurasian lynxes, wild boars, red deer, mouflons, and over 90 bird species, such as the imperial eagle and Ural owl.
* The Szalajka Valley, located nearby, is famous for its crystal-clear streams, waterfalls, and trout farms, attracting nature enthusiasts.

### Rivers and Lakes

* The Bán Stream (Bán-patak) runs through Dédestapolcsány, contributing to the lush vegetation and freshwater ecosystem.
* Lázbérc Reservoir, a protected water body, is located just a few kilometers away. This artificial lake supplies drinking water to nearby settlements and serves as a habitat for migratory birds. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing and hiking.

### Climate

* The village has a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers.
* Due to its hilly location, it experiences higher humidity and cooler temperatures compared to Hungary’s lowland areas.
* The surrounding forests play a vital role in air purification and climate regulation, making the region an excellent retreat from urban pollution.

### Outdoor Activities and Tourism

* The view from the Guboly wine cellar rowHiking & Trekking: The area offers numerous hiking trails, including routes leading to Dédes Castle Ruins and viewpoints overlooking the Bükk Mountains.
* Cycling: Mountain biking trails pass through forests and limestone ridges, offering both beginner and advanced-level routes.
* Rock Climbing & Caving: The Bükk region has several limestone cliffs suitable for rock climbing, while hidden caves like the István-Lápai Cave attract spelunkers.
* Eco-tourism & Birdwatching: With its rich biodiversity, the region is ideal for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
* Traditional Rural Experiences: The village maintains agricultural traditions, offering visitors hands-on experiences in beekeeping, farming, and local crafts.
Dédestapolcsány’s natural beauty and ecological importance make it a prime destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway, outdoor adventures, and cultural immersion in Hungary’s countryside.

## The National Blue Trail and Dédestapolcsány

The National Blue Trail (Országos Kéktúra, or OKT) is Hungary’s longest and most famous hiking trail, stretching approximately 1,170 km from Írott-kő in the west to Hollóháza in the east. It passes through numerous natural and cultural landmarks, including the Bükk Mountains, where Dédestapolcsány is located.

### Dédestapolcsány on the National Blue Trail

Dédestapolcsány is situated on section 23 of the National Blue Trail, which covers the route from Szarvaskő to Putnok, a distance of approximately 54.9 km. This section crosses the Bükk region, featuring stunning forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys.

#### Hiking Route Around Dédestapolcsány

* Bánkút – Dédestapolcsány The hike starts from Bánkút, descending through the Ördög-oldal (Devil’s Slope) into the Torma Valley. Following the blue trail markings, it passes landmarks like Mártus-kő, Vár-völgy, and Pirító-kő, before arriving at Dédestapolcsány.
* Dédestapolcsány – Putnok Leaving the village, the trail runs alongside the Lázbérc Reservoir, then passes through the Uppony Gorge, leading into Uppony village. The route continues via Szilas-tető and Koloska-tető Hillfort, finally reaching Putnok.

### Natural Attractions Along the Route

* Lázbérc Reservoir - Located near Dédestapolcsány, this artificial lake serves as a drinking water source and is a popular fishing and hiking destination.
* Uppony Gorge (Upponyi-szoros) - A breathtaking rocky canyon with steep limestone cliffs, protected for its unique geological and ecological value.

### Useful Information for Hikers

* Trail Markings - The National Blue Trail is marked with blue horizontal stripe signs, ensuring easy navigation throughout the route.
* Stamping Stations - Hikers can collect official stamps to validate their progress, with stations available in Dédestapolcsány and Uppony.
* Accommodation - various lodging options are available in Dédestapolcsány and nearby villages, catering to long-distance hikers.

### Why Visit This Section of the Trail?

The Dédestapolcsány segment of the National Blue Trail offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure. With its diverse landscapes, well-marked trails, and unique geological formations, it is an ideal destination for hikers, nature lovers, and those looking to explore Hungary’s hidden gems.

## History

Dédestapolcsány was established in 1950 through the unification of two ancient settlements, Dédes and Bántapolcsány. The name Dédes was first mentioned in 1221, when its inhabitants were royal castle serfs. The name derives from the Hungarian personal name "Dedus." Bántapolcsány was first mentioned in the 14th century, and its name refers to the Bán stream and the Slavic-origin word "Tapolcsány," which means "dweller by the poplars."
Dédes Castle
Dédes Castle, also known as Dédeskő, was built between 1247 and 1254 as the estate of Ban Ernye, a member of the Ákos clan. The castle held strategic importance and played a significant role in defending the region during the Middle Ages. In 1319, King Charles I captured the castle after its lords rebelled against him. By the 15th century, Dédes had become a market town and was granted to Barbara of Cilli, the second wife of King Sigismund of Luxembourg.
The Ottoman Occupation and the Destruction of the Castle
In April 1567, the Ottoman army led by Pasha Hasszán of Temesvár laid siege to Dédes Castle. The defenders, led by István Bárius, held out for fifteen days. When the Ottomans breached the castle, the defenders ignited the gunpowder stores, killing hundreds of Ottoman soldiers. In revenge, Pasha Hasszán ordered the castle to be demolished, and it was never rebuilt.
Religious Life and Cultural Heritage
In the 16th century, the inhabitants of both Dédes and Bántapolcsány converted to the Reformed faith. By 1595, a Reformed church stood in Dédes, which was replaced by a wooden church in 1608. The current late Baroque-style church was built between 1800 and 1801.
The Serényi Mansion
The Serényi Mansion was built in an eclectic style between 1898 and 1903, serving as the summer residence of the Serényi counts. Later, the mansion was used as a retreat for educators and then as a social care home. It is currently privately owned.
Modern History
During World War I, Dédes lost 30 and Bántapolcsány lost 34 of their inhabitants. In World War II, Dédes suffered 11 casualties, while Bántapolcsány lost 16. In 1950, the two settlements were merged to form the village of Dédestapolcsány.
The rich history of Dédestapolcsány reflects the turbulent centuries of Hungarian history, from medieval castle-building and Ottoman occupation to the challenges of the modern era.