In 1921 the border city of Sopron agreed to remain part of Hungary, a fact still commemorated by way of its Fountain Of Fidelity and Marian Column. It is a small city with a long history and whose historic old town is home to Hungary’s most Gothic buildings and magnificent ancient structures.

Scarbantia was what the Romans called this former village in their province of Pannonia, later developing it into a city of which many original elements have remained in tact. The later addition of a mediaeval city wall which followed typical Roman plans ensured the survival of the city. Due to a devastating fire in 1676, the city was subsequently rebuilt according to Baroque design.

The view across the rooftops of the old town, the Church Of Mary and the narrow streets, is quite overwhelming, an historical work of art. Each corner of the main square shows something different, with the elegant County Authority House and its monumental column portico stealing the show.

The mediaeval city wall mostly follows the oval town plan of Roman times, the exterior Barbakane looking particularly impressive. Today the city has become a Baroque gem with a mediaeval heart. Sopron, pearl of Transdanubia!