Pannonhalma is an attractive town located within the Hungarian region of Western Transdanubia, in the County of Syor Moson Sopron, and towards the north western area of the country. This town is rather small but has several attractions and a very appealing natural environment, being this way great for a relaxing vacation in Hungary.
The city of Pannonhalma has an area of approximately 29.5 km2 and a population of about 4100 inhabitants, in such a way that its density is of around 138 inhabitants per km2. The fact that it is not one of the most popular Hungarian destinations combined with its attractive natural spots and interesting constructions turn it into a very appealing spot for all those who wish to have a quiet and tranquil vacation.
The Archabbey of Pannonhalma is the most interesting construction tourists would find in this city. This Benedictine Archabbey is not only the main attraction of Pannonhalma but one of the most important historical constructions of all Hungary as well. This Archabbey is located on top of a hill, at an altitude of approximately 280 meters and next to the centre of the town.
The Benedictine Archabbey of Pannonhalma is the second largest of its kind in the entire world, and is therefore a famous construction among architects and designers of all points of the globe. This construction was built during the 10th century, and founded by the Prince Geza in the year 996. This construction is composed by several different buildings and areas, among which there is, for example, a Baroque Refectory, a Basilica, and a Library with more than 350,000 volumes among which there is the first written record of Hungarian.
The Archabbey of Pannonhalma was originally built with the purpose of being a monastery and founded as such. It did not become an Archabbey until middles of the 16th century, and not long after that it became fortified as well. Although during the times of the Turkish invasions some of its buildings were damaged, they were restored respecting its original design and structure. Despite of this, during the pass of time and as this complex grew it received new buildings in different styles, in such a way that it shows an interesting combination of structural and ornamental elements.