Tűzkereszt means “Fire Cross”, a Hungarian military decoration awarded for front-line combat service between 1941 and 1943.

Hungarian Military History Archive

An online archive preserving Hungarian and Austro-Hungarian military history through original photographs, awards, documents, and research material.

ESTABLISHED 2010

2016-10-30

" Eger Castle "

Military horses fill the inner courtyard of the historic castle at Eger. Originally founded in the 11th century, the fortress is one of Hungary's most famous strongholds and has played a significant role in the nation's military history for centuries.

The castle remained in military use well into the twentieth century, serving various functions until the Second World War. Photographs such as this illustrate the continued connection between Hungary's historic fortifications and its modern armed forces, with cavalry and transport horses still forming an important part of military operations during the interwar period and the early years of the war.

Best known for its heroic defense against the Ottoman siege of 1552, the Castle of Eger remained a symbol of Hungarian resilience and military tradition long after its strategic importance had diminished.

This image presents a striking contrast between medieval walls and the military requirements of the modern age, as horses crowd the courtyard of one of Hungary's most iconic fortresses.


Today, the Castle of Eger no longer serves a military function. Instead, it has been transformed into one of Hungary's most important historical and cultural sites, housing a variety of fascinating exhibitions, museums, and collections dedicated to the castle's long and eventful past.

Visitors can explore centuries of Hungarian history within the very walls where many of these events unfolded. Families regularly bring their children to the castle to learn about the nation's heritage, military traditions, and the famous siege of 1552, experiencing history in the same environment where it was made.

The contrast between past and present is striking: a place once filled with soldiers, horses, and military activity has become a center for education, preservation, and remembrance, ensuring that the stories of earlier generations remain alive for future visitors.

Today, the Castle of Eger stands not as a fortress of war, but as a living monument to Hungary's rich historical legacy.


The Web-page of the Castle and Museum in Eger can be found here
(In Hungarian only)