Opposite Visegrád lies a town known in older accounts as Oszlaroz. In this place there stands a large and notable church, which shows that the town once had importance among the Christian settlements of the region. The town is remarkable not for resistance, but for its peaceful submission to the Turks. Because the inhabitants voluntarily accepted Ottoman rule and agreed to pay a small tribute, the Christian population was allowed to live with little oppression. They kept their homes, their daily customs, and much of their religious life, which was not always the case in places taken by force.
This example shows that towns which surrendered peacefully often suffered less damage and fewer hardships than those that resisted and were taken after siege A Fortress Shaped by Constant War.
The Danube and St. Andrew’s Island
Below this town, the River Danube divides into two branches, forming a large and beautiful island known as St. Andrew’s Island. This island lies calmly between the flowing waters and is rich in fertile land. As we continued rowing downstream, we passed along the edges of this island, enjoying the broad view of the river and its gentle bends.
The island has long been important for travel and agriculture, and its position made it a natural resting place for boats moving along the Danube.
Vineyards and Ancient Ruins
Continuing our journey, we came near Virovichitz, a place well known for its pleasant vineyards and excellent grapes. The surrounding hills produce fine wine, which is valued throughout the region. On the shore of St. Andrew’s Island, we also observed an old stone ruin, partly fallen into decay.
The Turks who were with us told us that this ruin marked the place where there was once a stone bridge crossing the river. Though no clear remains of the bridge now stand, the ruins suggest that the crossing was once an important link between the two banks of the Danube.
Arrival at Vác (Vacia)
From there, we reached Vacia, now commonly called Vác. In earlier times, this town was the seat of a bishop, showing its former importance in the Christian church. Under Turkish rule, the town now contains two mosques, while one Christian church remains outside the walls. This arrangement reflects the balance of power and religion under Ottoman administration.
At Vác, we changed our convoy once again, as was required by the authorities along the river. After making the necessary arrangements, we continued our journey toward the great city of Buda Tour Guide Turkey.
Buda Capital of Hungary under Ottoman Rule
We then arrived at Buda, the capital city and former royal seat of the Kings of Hungary. At this time, it was also the residence of a Turkish Vizier, who governed the region and had several Bashas under his authority.
Buda is a large and well-formed city, divided into an upper town and a lower town. Throughout the city are ruins and remains of magnificent buildings, many of them raised by the Hungarian kings, especially King Matthias Corvinus. His great palace, once a symbol of royal power, was now occupied by the Vizier.
Mosques, Caravanserais, and Famous Baths
Although much of Buda’s ancient Christian glory had faded, the city was enriched with fine mosques, caravanserais, and splendid public baths built by the Turks. I observed eight baths in total and bathed in several of them.
The most magnificent of all is the Bath of Veli Bey, greatly beautified by Sultan Suleiman. It has four domes, along with a large central dome, supported by twelve strong pillars. The design and comfort of these baths show the Ottomans’ great skill in architecture and public works.
St. Jerome’s Mount and Its Fortress
Above the city rises a high hill called St. Jerome’s Mount. On its summit stands a fort, which commands a wide view of the town and the surrounding countryside. From this height, one can see the Danube, the rooftops of Buda, and the distant plains beyond, making it a place of great military importance.
