Tatabánya, which is the most highly populated city in our county with its 72
000 people was founded in 1947 by the unifi cation of four settlements: Alsógalla,
Bánhida, Felsőgalla and Tatabánya. In 1950 the city became the seat of county
Komárom. In 1991 it received the title of county rank. The city is 14 kilometres
long and is situated on an area of 91 square kilometres between the Vértes and
Gerecse mountains, which are part of the Transdanubian Mountains. The city is
a road hub on railroads, and is situated next to motorway M1 and the international
railway line between Budapest and Vienna.The Tatabánya basin is rich in natural
capital. It is slashed with creeks, springs and mountains, so it has offered an
ideal place of living for mankind since the beginnings. The area has been inhabited
since the Palaeolithic age. The most important archeological site is the Szelim
cave above the city. In the neighbouring village of Vértesszőlős the almost half
a million years old remains of prehistoric man were found. There are several legends
connected to the pre-settlements of Tatabánya from the period of the Hungarian
Conquest. The belief about the story of the battle near Bánhida was strengthened
by the Turul monument on the top of Kő Hill and by the large-size painting of
Árpád Feszty about the combat. The archaeological fi ndings can be seen in the
permanent exhibition of the City Museum. Since the foundation of royal authority
in Hungary the historic settlements of Tatabánya have been in integral relation
with some of the highlights of Hungarian history. The “Old Road”—as mentioned
in the descriptions by Mátyás Bél—, the so-called butchers’ road served as a very
important trade route for centuries.
Beeves were exported on this road from the Great Hungarian Plains – or from farther
– to the Western-European markets. All the three pre-settlements of Tatabánya
were along this road. These settlements are also mentioned in the early historical
sources. Galla is mentioned in a charter dating back to 1251. Two Galla settlements
are listed in another charter from 1440: Kisgalya (Small Galla) and Galya maior
(Big Galla). The fi rst written reminiscence about Bánhida is in a royal charter
dating back to 1288. After the battle at Mohács the Ottoman armies devastated
this area, too. The people either fl ed away or got into Ottoman captivity. The
owners of the land changed frequently. Tata and
Kő Hill Archaeological Site of the Preshistoric man in Vértesszőlős 60 years
old city — history of a millennium its adherent settlements were bought by count
József Esterházy in 1727, and the manor of Tata-Gesztes, which incorporated Alsógalla,
Bánhida and Felsőgalla,
was born. The new landlord started his reign by settling people in order to populate
the abandoned villages. In 1785, at the time of the fi rst census in Hungary,
there
were 2566 people living in the three villages. The inhabitants of the two Galla
villages were German, the population of Bánhida was Slovakian in two thirds. A
fundamental change of the three settlements and their neighbourhood was brought
about by the appearance of coalmining at the end of the 19th century.
It has totally changed the previous life and image of the settlements. After 1896,
when
the first wagon of coal was mined and coalmining capacity started to grow, the
Hungarian General Coalmining Shareholding Company set up a stable and diverse
economy.
The development of mining brought forth the separate settlement of Tatabánya in
1902, after the turn of the 19th century. The economic boom brought about changes
in
the population, the life-style, the buildings and the cultural life of the city,
too. By 1940 the former mine camp became one of the most signifi cant industrial
centres in
North-Transdanubia, where the factories employed 10 000 workers and provided a
living
for almost 30 000 people, thereby establishing the “Hungarian Ruhr” region.
When
the workers’ colonies were formed, the former settlements were almost joined.
Their unifi cation was justifi ed by both economic and administrative
reasons. The nationalisation of mines accelerated this process. By 1947, when
Tatabánya became a city with the unifi cation of four villages, it was already
an outstanding Hungarian centre of mining and heavy industry. The mines in Tatabánya
yielded two thirds of the national coal-production. The donation of county rank
to Tatabánya gave new impetus to the development
of the city. Housing estates were built one after the other, which was also demanded
by the further industrialisation of the area. The industry-developing policy of
the 50’s and 60’s called for the growth of coal production in Tatabánya. During
these years
the area was exposed to a third settling wave in its history. The mining company
employed
15-17 000 workers at its peak, and there was no family in the city, which did
not
have any 3 Turul by Gyula Donáth The battle at Bánhida by Árpád Feszty 60 years
old city — history of a millennium 4 ties with coal mining.The development of
the city centre began in 1950, and it was continued with great enthusiasm in the
60’s. However, besides the construction
of new city districts, the old colonies built at the beginning of the 20th century
had to be demolished because of the effects of undermining. The coal reserves
of the old Tatabánya coalfi eld were exhausted and the mines were closed. For
some years the extraction of coal continued in the Eocene mines outside the county.
Presently the Open-Air Mining Museum of Tatabánya—which is situated in the area
of shaft No. XV.—commemorates the 26 shafts and the 5 opencast mines which used
to operate in Tatabánya. Following the political change the establishment of market
economy called for structural changes in the local economy. After 110 years coal
mining and the heavy industrial sectors based on it collapsed.The local government
answered the challenges of the social economical changes of the fall of the old
regime in 1989 by conceptual city-development policy, planned economic development
and an active contribution of the citizens. It resulted in the rejuvenation of
the local economy. Several companies, factories settled in Tatabánya, thousands
of jobs were created, and now Tatabánya is referred to as the most dynamically
developing cities in Hungary. The 60 years old city with its past of more than
a thousand years is not a typical settlement that developed through centuries.
It is unique because everything is visible that infl uenced social development
in the “Hungarian reality” of the 20th century. Our city was born in the 20th
century, so it is the mirror and the city of the century. Tatabánya is an interesting,
exciting city that changes continuously, and its sights raise the attention of
the visitors.
2. DISTRICTS
OF THE TOWN
ALSÓGALLA
We arrive almost abruptly from the ten-storey buildings
of Újváros into the nice garden-district of Al sógalla. The village was destroyed
under the Turkish occupation. Even Mátyás Bél refers to it as wasteland. In the
18th century Count József Eszterháy settled poor German Catholic farmers in the
empty settlement mainly from the area of Alsace, Wüttemberg, Bavaria, Würzburg
and Bamberg. It was basically animal husbandry and fruit-growing that played a
very important role in their agricultural production. Most fruit trees were in
Alsógalla while their fruits were sold at the market in Tata. The beginning of
coal mining accelerated the development of the village. The mining site belonged
administratively to Alsógalla till 1902. Several new terraced houses were built
recently next to the typical “old” houses of Alsógalla, and some of the old houses
were reconstructed. There is a Roman Catholic Church of baroque Saint Gál Church
View of Alsógalla 60 years old city — history of a millennium 6 style and a World
War II memorial on the renewed square of the former main street of the district,
which still serves as the main street of the city. In the neighbourhood there
is a cultural centre, which houses the local festivals and the traditions of the
German minority. Another highlight of the district is the renewed Cross and the
14 Stations.
FELSőGALLA
In 1733, when the Ottoman occupation destroyed the settlement,
József Eszterházy settled catholic people from the German provinces into the village.
Felsőgalla was not rebuilt in the same place but slightly south-east from the
old settlement. After the opening of the mines the development of the village
accelerated. However, it preserved its old image for a long time after the unifi
cation as the main construction projects did not have an effect on it. In the
last couple of years several new houses were built here. The older houses were
renewed mainly along the present main street of the district, which leads to Budapest.
The Szent István street became an ornament of Felsőgalla with its Roman Catholic
Church, the renewed House of Local Services, the World War I and II
memorial in
front of the cemetery gate, the statue of Saint Florian on the facade of a house,
the new Szent István square and his sculpture. Its old main street, the Szent
János street or the quarter of the craftsmen lost from its shine during the years
but its unique atmosphere could be brought back by reconstructing the old shop-fronts
and trade signs. The people of Felsőgalla safeguard their German traditions and
it is not only the community centre and the school but also the main street of
the district that provides place for the festivals. The Calvary in Alsógalla Szent
István Street with the Sculpture Made by László Varkoly 60 years old city — history
of a millennium 7
BÁNHIDA
Bánhida, which became a town in the Middle Ages, was
the biggest among the pre-settlements of Tatabánya as far as population and territory
is concerned. Bánhida fell a victim to the Ottoman invasion, and in 1543 it was
totally deserted. When count József Esterházy settled people in the neighbourhood,
it was an inhabited area again. There were catholic Slovakian and protestant Hungarian
people living here. Later in the following years another group of Slovakian settlers
arrived. In 1848–49 the citizens of Bánhida supported the revolution of independence
with their priest named József Fieba. The development of the settlement attracted
many craftsmen in
the second half of the 19th century. The beginning of mining
also had a positive effect on the development of Bánhida. The “old” houses which
represent the former image of the settlement are gone, but several detached and
semi-detached houses were built. Its old main street was renewed. The highlights
of the main street of Bánhida are the imposing Ro-World War Monument in Felsőgalla
Promenade in „hatos telep” Roman Catholic Church in Bánhida 60 years old city
— history of a millennium 8 man Catholic Church, the renewed Protestant Church,
the former town hall, the monuments for the Revolution of Independence of 1848,
the Industrial Skanzen or mining museum, the community centre and the parish hall,
which preserves Slovakian traditions.The people in Alsógalla and Felsőgalla keep
German cultural heritage, while the inhabitants of Bánhida preserve the Slovakian
culture.
TATABÁNYA
The city was named after Tatabánya, which evolved on the territory
of Alsógalla when the mines were opened. In 1902 it became a separate village
and in 1923
a civil parish. Several new industrial sites were built in a parallel fashion
with mining
on the mining estates. These estates were owned by the Hungarian General Coalmining
Shareholding Company, and the population was booming there. After Tatabánya became
a city the creation of its centre was planned in the city district of Újváros,
and its construction began in 1950. Since there was a demand for a garden district
the district of Kertváros (Garden City) was built in 1953. In 1956 Tatabánya consisted
of six districts: Alsógalla, Felsőgalla, Bánhida, Tatabánya-Újváros, Tatabánya-Óváros
and Kertváros and it ran along for more than ten kilometres at the feet of the
mountains. Traditional Slovakian Costume from Bánhida Reformed Church in Bánhida
60 years old city — history of a millennium 9 From the 60’s on even more housing
estates were established in Tatabánya where high blocks of fl ats were built.
Besides the establishment of new districts
the oldones were decaying due to the problems caused by undermining. A lot of
unique and representative buildings became victims of this process (the Workers’
Cultural Centre, the houses of mining offi cers, the Clubhouse and the State Shopping
Centre). Most buildings, which represent the mining heritage of the city and shape
the image of the whole settlement, are in the district of Tatabánya- Óváros. Without
these buildings, which refl ect the diversity of the city Tatabánya would not
have its unique style and beauty. Such characteristic building is the Jászai Mari
Theatre, the former casino of mining offi cers, the parkland, the Saint Parish
Hall of Tatabánya World War I Monument in the Parkland 60 years old city — history
of a millennium 10 Steven Church, the former parish hall of Tatabánya, the old
building of the miners’ hospital or the sport facilities.
There are also some
industrial sites preserved which commemorate the past and heritage of mining,
like the conveyor, the entrances of the incline shafts and the Industrial Skanzen.
In Újváros the typical atmosphere of Tatabánya is provided by the standard houses
built in the 50’s, the ornaments of the balconies, the main buildings built in
social realistic style, the rare species of trees, the statues and monuments,
the college, the library, the community centres, the City Museum, the Szent BorbálaSquare,
the Csónakázó Lake in Sárberek, the Lapatári mill in Kertváros and the
new Roman Catholic Church. These are all portions or complementary parts of our
memories or the old buildings remaining from the pre-settlements and also those
of the newly created values there. Saint Steven Church in Óváros The Old Miners’
Hospital Houses in Ótelep 60 years old city — history of a millennium
3. ECONOMY
After the political change in 1989 a new political and economic environment was
established. The economy had to adapt to the transition from social economy to
market economy, the renewal of the economic structure and the challenges of globalisation.
The consequences of the crisis, which were due to the changes, were different
in both depth and intensity. The closure of the mines and the collapse of the
heavy industry caused severe diffi culties in Tatabánya.Therefore, the aim of
the economic development policy of the city was to establish a firm and diverse
economic structure. This policy was fi rst of all based on the settlement of labour-intensive
production so that the unemployment rate would be reduced signifi cantly. As a
result of the successful and continuous structural changes there 11 The Power
Plant in Bánhida View of the Industrial Park from Kertváros Mésztelep 60 years
old city — history of a millennium 12 are also technologies present in the city
by now, which represent more added value, moreover, we have the research and development
sector present as well. The local government also paid great attention to the
housing, sports and recreational facilities in order to develop Tatabánya into
a city which offers both workplaces and a good standard of living. The Power Plant
in Óváros Ventilation Shaft No. I/a 60 years old city — history of a millennium
13
INDUSTRIAL PAST
Coal mining played a determining role in the life of the area.
The Hungarian General Coalmining Shareholding Company gained the rights for mining
in 1894 in this region. With the rise of the production service plants and colonies
were established, and people settled down in the area.
Heavy industry was developing
in an intensive way, and besides coal mining cement, aluminium and briquette production
played a more determining role. In the 1920s Tatabánya was among the fi ve most
dynamically developing areas of Europe. In 1947 with the unifi cation of Alsógalla,
Felsőgalla, Bánhida and the industrial site of Tatabánya the city of Tatabánya
was established. In the 60’s the heavy industrial character of the city was complemented
by machine industry that created new working places and the establishment of factories,
which had mainly women employees. By this time it became clear that the coal reserves
of an estimated volume of 200 million tons were gradually diminishing and new
mining areas had to be discovered. This process was aggravated by the energy-consuming
and wasting economy of the 1970s, and the growing demand for coal due the oil
crisis. Therefore, the so-called Eocene Programme was launched in the city and
new coalfi
elds were discovered. Thus, coal mining was prolonged for another 10-15 years
in Tatabánya, but this fairly slowed down the process of the industrial structural
change.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
During the political change the process of the economic
change speeded up due to and parallel with the effects
of the economical and social changes. The previously leading industries like coal
and bauxite mining, the open quarry, the cement and aluminium industries and the
state-owned construction industry were closed gradually. The local 14 60 éves
város — ezer éves múlt Entrance to an Incline Shaft The College for Modern Business
Studies 60 years old city — history of a millennium 15 government realised that
it had to set up a new economic strategy on its own. As a fi rst step labour-intensive
branches were settled in the city to handle
excessive unemployment. The technological (gas pipelines, telephone lines, sewage
system, by-passes, industrial sites, modern landfi ll site, recultivation of
degraded areas) and the human (College of Modern Business Studies, Economic Development
Organisation) infrastructure was established. The local government defi ned the
possible ways and tools of local economic development and established the fi rst
Economic Development Organisation (GFSZ) in Hungary.
The responsibilities of this
non-profi t organisation range from the reception of investors, the creation and
sustaining of workplaces, the promotion of public property utilisation to city
marketing. Its effective co-operation with the authorities and the public utility
companies enables the investors to get all the important facts and information
about the city within a day. The establishment of the Industrial Park rendered
it possible that suitable sites are available for the investors, but there are
also other industrial areas in other parts of the city which offer good prospects.
The Industrial Park 60 years old city — history of a millennium 16
NEW WAYS
Owing
to the conscious developments and constructions in the past decade the most important
goal of the economic development strategy of the local government was achieved
in Tatabánya: a diverse economic structure in the city. There are signifi cant
automotive suppliers like the American- German joint venture Suoftec, the Japanese
AGC and Bridgestone operating in the Industrial Park. The well-known Danish pump
manufacturer company of Grundfos and the other Danish company of Coloplast, which
produces medical appliances, is also present in Tatabánya. The electronic industry
is represented by FCI Connections, the Sanmina-SCI and many others. Zenon Systems,
whichis involved in environmental industry, also has a department for research
and
development in Tatabánya. The local government pays particular attention to professional
training to ensure the required skilled workforce for the companies. As a part
of this the Bánki Donát Regional Integrated Training Centre was founded in Tatabánya
with a regional function. The economic development activities of the local government
are characterised by initiation, fl exibility and adaptation to the trends of
global economy. Tatabánya is ready to offer sites for dynamically developing industries
and developed technologies. The Housing Estates in Kertváros and the Industrial
Park 60 years old city — history of a millennium 17 4.
CULTURE - ARTS
During the
20th century the city and its pre-settlements created many cultural values. The
oldest cultural institution, the Népház (Public Building), has been housing a
theatre, a cinema and several cultural groups since its inauguration The Jászai
Mari Theatre 60 years old city — history of a millennium 18 (1917). The Jászai
Mari Theatre has been operating in this building since 1991. The building has
just been renovated. Although, it has no permanent company, numerous independent
performances
and plays are presented there by means of the creation of a “virtual” company
besides the various programmes of the theatrical season.There are several community
centres to accommodate local communities; the biggest of them is the Public Community
Centre (Közművelődés Háza), which was inaugurated in the 80’s. In Bánhida the
Puskin Community Centre undertook the keeping of Slovakian traditions, while in
the community centres of Alsógalla and Felsőgalla the German traditions are preserved.
Barbershop in the Industrial Skanzen 60 years old city — history of a millennium
19 The Mining Community Centre of Kertváros accommodates spontaneous handcrafts
groups and organises art clubs. Besides these centres community homes are established
one after the other in the new housing estates to accommodate local organisations.
Public collections also play a determining role in the education of residents.
The City Library has its seat in Népház, while the Attila József County Library
welcomes its readers in Újváros with its remarkable collection and services. The
City Archives is in the building of the Service House of Felsőgalla, where it
collects and maintains records of the city and its neighbourhood, and assists
scientifi c researchers in their work. The visitors can follow the development
of the pre-settlements from the fi rst archaeological fi ndings to the establishment
of the city in the City Museum of Tatabánya. The Industrial Skanzen is part of
this museum. As a unique institution in Europe it plays a vital role in presenting
the lifestyle of the miners and preserving mining Shaft No. XV in the Industrial
Skanzen Miners’ Day Festival in the Industrial Skanzen 60 years old city — history
of a millennium 20 heritage. Apart from the cultural institutions and public collections
there are several sport facilities in Tatabánya (swimming pool, ice-skating rink,
sports hall, camping site etc.) the development of which started these days. All
these institutions provide cultural, sports and recreational opportunities for
the citizens of Tatabánya. Several values were produced in the cultural and art
life of the city before 1945, but new ones are still created. The famous cultural
groups of the county seat like the Miners’ Brass Band of Tatabánya, the Symphony
Orchestra, the Miners’ Folk Dance Group and the Miners’ Fine Arts Club began their
work in Népház. These groups are still active today. Among the lately established
ensembles the Seasons Chamber Orchestra has acquired fame. The wood-carver, the
metalsculptor and the photo camps are worth mentioning among the art camps. These
are organised every summer in Works of Metal-sculptors
Brass band of miners at
the beginning of the last century Festival Brass Band of Tatabánya „Bányász” Folk
Dance Group 60 years old city — history of a millennium 21 Endre Ady by Miklós
Melocco Ferenc Rákóczi II. by Tamás Gaál 60 years old city — history of a millennium
22 the developing contemporary art centreof the Industrial Skanzen, the “Voicebath”.
The various exhibitions of the Gallery of Contemporary Artists play a signifi
cant role in the development of visual culture. Amongst others the yearly “In
Memoriam” series and the exhibitions of the emigrated artists of the city have
to be emphasized. The system of the big city festivals has developed recently.
Besides the social anniversaries and the festivals on Miners’ Day, cultural and
art events like the Saint Stephen Days and Saint Barbara Days play a more signifi
cant role. The outdoor works of fine arts determine the image of the city. Besides
the monuments of the two world wars some others are worth mentioning, like the
older sculpture of Endre Ady by Miklós Melocco, the Saint Barbara sculpture and
the “Tree of Life” by László Péterfy,
the Martyr monument by István Marosits, and the newer busts of Ferenc Rákóczi
II. by Tamás Gaál, Saint Stephen by László Varkoly, Imre Nagy by Iván Paulikovics,
Béla Makk by László Szunyogh, and the art pieces of Viktor Lois in the area of
the “Voicebath”. World War Monument by Géza Nausch in Bánhida 60 years old city
— history of a millennium 23
5. MONUMENTS – BUILT HERITAGE
Tatabánya is a young
city. Therefore, it has only a few old buildings to show
to its visitors. The registry of monuments of County Komárom-Esztergom from 2006
lists only fi ve monuments in Tatabánya. As the development of its pre-settlements
Building of the Jászai Mari Theatre Casino of Mining Offi cers 60 years old city
— history of a millennium 24 lasted till the end of the 18th Century, the oldest
buildings were built at that time. The Roman Catholic Church in Alsógalla is a
typical monument of the late baroque age; its architect was Jakab Fellner. The
Roman Catholic Church of Felsőgalla, which was also built in late baroque style
is a monument, too. The Roman Catholic Vicarage of Bánhida built in baroque style
is presumably another work of Jakab Fellner. The Roman Catholic Church of this
site was built by count Miklós Ferenc Eszterházy according to the plans of Adolf
Feszty. They built it upon the former temple of the 18th century.The architect
of the Lapatári Mill was Jakab Fellner, too. It was built in 1753. The Turul Monument
above the city is the tourist attraction of Tatabánya. Its creator, Gyula Donáth
was entrusted with this artistic work in 1896, however, the statue was only inaugurated
in 1907. The Turul Bird was also in-Lapatári Mil The Casino at the Power Plant
with the Water Tower 60 years old
city — history of a millennium 25 corporated into the new coat of arms of Tatabánya
as the symbol of the city after the political changes. The image of the city is
determined by a few other buildings, which were not ranked as monuments, never
theless, they contribute to the diversity of the city. Such buildings are the
Jászai Mari Theatre – Népház and the old-time Casino of mining offi cers right
opposite, which was built in secessionist style. The highlight of the Május 1 Park is the Saint Stephen Church with the renewed Saint Imre sculpture
next to it. The former town hall of Tatabánya is also an important building. It
serves as a post office today. Other important buildings are the buildings of
the former mining hospital,
the Presbyterian Church of Bánhida, which was built according to the plans of
Bálint Szeghalmi in 1939, the former municipality hall of Bánhida, the Casino
of the offi cials of the power plant with the old water tower rising above the
houses or the County Hall in Újváros, which was built in social-realistic style
according to the plans of János Skultéty. Not to mention the fi ne ornamental
façade of
Pál Zsemle’s former slaughterhouse, and the “old” houses which recall the one-time
image of Felsőgalla, Alsógalla and Bánhida. Besides all these buildings the unique
monuments of the 110 years of mining can be noted, too.
The County Hall in the
50’s
Gellért Square in Bánhida 60 years old city — history of a millennium 26
6. NATURAL
VALUES – WALKING AROUND THE CITY
Tatabánya is situated in a diverse natural environment.
It is enclosed by the
Gerecse and Vértes Mountains to the north, the east and the south, and it is bordered
by the Little Hungarian Plain to the west. The Szelim Cave can be approached from
the symbol
of Tatabánya, the Turul Monument along a path through the forest. It takes only
a short walk to get to the watching tower, which used to be a mining pit tower.
Fresh
air is ensured by the surrounding vast forests. At the border of the city the
Turul Park Forest
provides recreational and regenerational opportunities for the citizens. The development
of vineyards and weekend gardens is functionally linked to this. The broken, 140
meter high, steep terraced cliffs of the north-south oriented limestone range
of Kő Hill are considered to be rare geological formations. The Által stream fl
ows through Tatabánya. It is the biggest water catchment area in the region. It
is also fed by the water of the Galla stream. Gardens, parks, alleys con- Szelim
Cave
The Castle at Várgesztes 60 years old city — history of a millennium 27 tribute
to the friendly atmosphere of the city. There is a peaceful parkland next to Népház
waiting for those who intend to relax. The Május 1 Park on the opposite side of
the building hosts the traditional fair on Miners’ Day. The centre of leisure
time activities is the Jubileum Park in Újváros. There is the Millennium Park
and the Csónakázó Lake in its neighbourhood. It is surrounded by a nice walking
way. Several big city festivals and events are organised here. The roads from
the city lead the visitors to rich sights, natural values and
monuments in all directions. The hiking ways of the surrounding mountains, the
fi shing opportunities provided by those lakes which evolved as a consequence
of mining
offer good recreation for many people. We turn left to see the Camandolese monastery
from the way to Oroszlány at the airport of Kecskéd. It is surrounded by picturesque
landscape as well as the ruins of the monastery and the temple at Vértesszentkereszt,
which were built in Roman style within the hills of Vértes. It is also worth walking
to these places from Tatabánya. The rich fl ora and fauna of the Vértes Mountain
still
attracts many tourists. We can get to Síkvölgy by bus. The system of artifi cial
lakes
in thisarea is the paradise of fi sherman.
Castle Vitány, which is part of the
castle-system
of Vértes and which was demolished during the Turkish times, can be reached along
an offi cial hiking footway. The hiking pathway leads from here to another member
of the castle-system: the castle of Gesztes. It is also possible to have a rest
on the
way by the Szarvas and Mátyás springs. Further pleasant excursion opportunities
are offered
by Csákányospuszta and the Mária ravine. The main road No. 1 which intercepts
the
city provides opportunities for other excursions to Tata via Vértesszőlős. Castle
Vitány in Vértes The Parkland 60 years old city — history of a millennium 28
7.
PAST AND PRESENT OF SPORTS IN TATABÁNYA
The sport life of the city developed hand
in hand with mining. In February 1910 the Tatabánya Sport Club was founded by
some football players in the Casino of Junior Mining Offi cers. The club still
operates today under this name. The Miners’ SC of Tatabánya was the biggest sports
club in the provinces during the second half of the 20th century. The sportsmen
of the club achieved several national and international victories. Imre Földi,
who received the title of ‘Sportsmen of the Nation’ took part in fi ve Olympic
Games and in Munich he became a champion in weightlifting. Our football players:
Gusztáv Szepesi, Tibor Csernai and József Gelei also retired as Olympic champions.
The football team of Tatabánya won the Central-European Football Cup in 1974 and
1975. Moreover, in 1981 they defeated the legendary team of Real Madrid. The men’s
handball team was a four times Hungarian champion. There was no department at
the former “Miners” which could not train fi rst class sportsmen and sportswomen.
There are eight departments at the club (athletics, wrestling, women handball,
boxing, women bowling, hiking and fencing), where mainly the second generation
of sportsmen and sportswomen are trained. There are also independent sport associations
of football, handball, judo, water-polo, swimming and volleyball in the city.
These clubs compete„Gerecse 50” performance tour 60 years old city — history
of a millennium 29 in the different classes of the national championships. Besides
competitive sports mass sports have always been popular in Tatabánya. There are
more than one thousand players in the local small fi eld football championship.
There are several amateurs taking part in the local bowling championship and in
the periodic competitions of the other departments of the sport club. The fi rst
and fi fth most popular performance tours in Hungary start and end in Tatabánya:
the Gerecse 50 (50 kilometres) in springtime and the Tatabánya 30 (30 kilometres)
in the autumn. The city is gradually improving its sport facilities. The football
stadium was renewed recently, where a new artifi cial turf fi eld and a new athletic
fi eld was inaugurated. The amateur football players
in Jubileum Sports Park also play on synthetic turf. The Imre Földi Sports Stadium
which is named after the outstanding weightlifter was renewed recently. Thousands
of sportsmen and their fans enjoy the world of sports in the sport facilities
of the city. Gyula Grosics playing for „Miners” Sport Club of Tatabánya in the
60’s Imre Földi, the Sportsmen of the Nation 60 years old city — history of a
millennium 8.
Hotel Árpád Fő tér 20. Tel: +36 34/310-299 Sport
Hotel Ságvári Endre u. 9. Tel: +36 34/310-410 Romantic Panzió Felsőgallai u. Tel:
+36 34/329-514 Nomád Kemping Tolnai u. 14. Tel: +36 34/311-507 Panoráma Panzió
M1-es autópálya (Tatabánya) Tel: +36 34/316-559
Restaurants
Betyár Csárda Tatabánya,
Kossuth L. u. 51. Tel: +36 34/338-964 Birka Csárda Tatabánya, Csákányospuszta.
Tel: +36 34/324-998 Dixie Ételbár Tatabánya, Győri u. 1. Tel: +36 34/337-882 (Konzum
üzletközpont). Három Tölgy Kisvendéglő Tatabánya, Feszty u. 138. Tel: +36 34/316-049,
+36 34/316-327 Lővér Étterem Tatabánya, Vadász u. Tel: +36 34/311-351 Vadvirág
Kisvendéglő Tatabánya, Táncsics M. u. 36. Tel: +36 34/332-584 Vértes Center Tatabánya,
Győri u. 7-9. Tel: +36 34/801-401 West Étterem Tatabánya, Népház u. 9. Tel: +36
34/323-014
Community Centers
A Közművelődés Háza Tatabánya, Szent Borbála tér
1. Tel: +36 34/316-644 Puskin Művelődési Ház Tatabánya, Kossuth L. u. Tel: +36
34/332-509 Bányász Művelődési Ház Tatabánya, Hadsereg u. 98. Tel: +36 34/311-639
József Attila Művelődési Ház Tatabánya, Táncsics M. u.63. Tel: +36 34/320-024
KPVDSZ Művelődési Ház Tatabánya, Kós Károly u. 17. Tel: +36 34/311-791 Széchenyi
Művelődési Ház Tatabánya, Szent István u. 7. Tel: +36 34/324-335 30 60 years old
city — history of a millennium
Museum, City Archives
Tatabányai Múzeum (City Museum)
Tatabánya, Szent Borbála tér 1. Tel: +36 34/310-495 Szabadtéri Bányászati Múzeum
(Open-Air Mining Museum, Ipari Skanzen (Industrial Skanzen) Tatabánya, Vágóhíd
u. Tel: +36 34/311-076 Kortárs Galéria (Galery of Contamporary Arts) (A Közművelődés
Háza) Tatabánya, Szent Borbála tér 1. Tel: +36 34/316-644 Városi Levéltár (City
Archives) Tatabánya, Szent István út 21. Tel: +36 34/324-310
Libraries
József
Attila Megyei Könyvtár (Attila József County Library) Tatabánya, Fő tér 2. Tel:
+36 34/513-670 Városi Könyvtár (City Library) Tatabánya, Népház u. 5. Tel: +36
34/311-593
Theatre
Jászai Mari Színház (Jászai Mari Theatre), Népház Tatabánya,
Népház u. 5. Tel: +36 34/323-655
Cinemas
Vértes Center Palace Tatabánya, Győri
u. 7-9. Tel: +36 34/801-401 Bányász Filmszínház Tatabánya, Hadsereg u. 98. Tel:
+36 34/311-528
TravelAgencies
Jolly Joker Utazási Iroda Tatabánya, Fő tér 34.
Tel: +36 34/331-113 MOL Travel Utazási Iroda Tatabánya, Fő tér 20. Tel: +36 34/310-900 IBUSZ Utazási Iroda Tatabánya, Fő tér 20. Tel: +36 34/311-947 31 60
Tatabánya, which is the most highly populated city in our county with its 72
000 people was founded in 1947 by the unifi cation of four settlements: Alsógalla,
Bánhida, Felsőgalla and Tatabánya. In 1950 the city became the seat of county
Komárom. In 1991 it received the title of county rank. The city is 14 kilometres
long and is situated on an area of 91 square kilometres between the Vértes and
Gerecse mountains, which are part of the Transdanubian Mountains. The city is
a road hub on railroads, and is situated next to motorway M1 and the international
railway line between Budapest and Vienna.The Tatabánya basin is rich in natural
capital. It is slashed with creeks, springs and mountains, so it has offered an
ideal place of living for mankind since the beginnings. The area has been inhabited
since the Palaeolithic age. The most important archeological site is the Szelim
cave above the city. In the neighbouring village of Vértesszőlős the almost half
a million years old remains of prehistoric man were found. There are several legends
connected to the pre-settlements of Tatabánya from the period of the Hungarian
Conquest. The belief about the story of the battle near Bánhida was strengthened
by the Turul monument on the top of Kő Hill and by the large-size painting of
Árpád Feszty about the combat. The archaeological fi ndings can be seen in the
permanent exhibition of the City Museum. Since the foundation of royal authority
in Hungary the historic settlements of Tatabánya have been in integral relation
with some of the highlights of Hungarian history. The “Old Road”—as mentioned
in the descriptions by Mátyás Bél—, the so-called butchers’ road served as a very
important trade route for centuries.
Beeves were exported on this road from the Great Hungarian Plains – or from farther
– to the Western-European markets. All the three pre-settlements of Tatabánya
were along this road. These settlements are also mentioned in the early historical
sources. Galla is mentioned in a charter dating back to 1251. Two Galla settlements
are listed in another charter from 1440: Kisgalya (Small Galla) and Galya maior
(Big Galla). The fi rst written reminiscence about Bánhida is in a royal charter
dating back to 1288. After the battle at Mohács the Ottoman armies devastated
this area, too. The people either fl ed away or got into Ottoman captivity. The
owners of the land changed frequently. Tata and
Kő Hill Archaeological Site of the Preshistoric man in Vértesszőlős 60 years
old city — history of a millennium its adherent settlements were bought by count
József Esterházy in 1727, and the manor of Tata-Gesztes, which incorporated Alsógalla,
Bánhida and Felsőgalla,
was born. The new landlord started his reign by settling people in order to populate
the abandoned villages. In 1785, at the time of the fi rst census in Hungary,
there
were 2566 people living in the three villages. The inhabitants of the two Galla
villages were German, the population of Bánhida was Slovakian in two thirds. A
fundamental change of the three settlements and their neighbourhood was brought
about by the appearance of coalmining at the end of the 19th century.
It has totally changed the previous life and image of the settlements. After 1896,
when
the first wagon of coal was mined and coalmining capacity started to grow, the
Hungarian General Coalmining Shareholding Company set up a stable and diverse
economy.
The development of mining brought forth the separate settlement of Tatabánya in
1902, after the turn of the 19th century. The economic boom brought about changes
in
the population, the life-style, the buildings and the cultural life of the city,
too. By 1940 the former mine camp became one of the most signifi cant industrial
centres in
North-Transdanubia, where the factories employed 10 000 workers and provided a
living
for almost 30 000 people, thereby establishing the “Hungarian Ruhr” region.
The development of
the city centre began in 1950, and it was continued with great enthusiasm in the
60’s. However, besides the construction
of new city districts, the old colonies built at the beginning of the 20th century
had to be demolished because of the effects of undermining. The coal reserves
of the old Tatabánya coalfi eld were exhausted and the mines were closed. For
some years the extraction of coal continued in the Eocene mines outside the county.
Presently the Open-Air Mining Museum of Tatabánya—which is situated in the area
of shaft No. XV.—commemorates the 26 shafts and the 5 opencast mines which used
to operate in Tatabánya. Following the political change the establishment of market
economy called for structural changes in the local economy. After 110 years coal
mining and the heavy industrial sectors based on it collapsed.
The local government
answered the challenges of the social economical changes of the fall of the old
regime in 1989 by conceptual city-development policy, planned economic development
and an active contribution of the citizens. It resulted in the rejuvenation of
the local economy. Several companies, factories settled in Tatabánya, thousands
of jobs were created, and now Tatabánya is referred to as the most dynamically
developing cities in Hungary. The 60 years old city with its past of more than
a thousand years is not a typical settlement that developed through centuries.
It is unique because everything is visible that infl uenced social development
in the “Hungarian reality” of the 20th century. Our city was born in the 20th
century, so it is the mirror and the city of the century. Tatabánya is an interesting,
exciting city that changes continuously, and its sights raise the attention of
the visitors.
We arrive almost abruptly from the ten-storey buildings
of Újváros into the nice garden-district of Al sógalla. The village was destroyed
under the Turkish occupation. Even Mátyás Bél refers to it as wasteland. In the
18th century Count József Eszterháy settled poor German Catholic farmers in the
empty settlement mainly from the area of Alsace, Wüttemberg, Bavaria, Würzburg
and Bamberg. It was basically animal husbandry and fruit-growing that played a
very important role in their agricultural production. Most fruit trees were in
Alsógalla while their fruits were sold at the market in Tata. The beginning of
coal mining accelerated the development of the village. The mining site belonged
administratively to Alsógalla till 1902. Several new terraced houses were built
recently next to the typical “old” houses of Alsógalla, and some of the old houses
were reconstructed. There is a Roman Catholic Church of baroque Saint Gál Church
View of Alsógalla 60 years old city — history of a millennium 6 style and a World
War II memorial on the renewed square of the former main street of the district,
which still serves as the main street of the city. In the neighbourhood there
is a cultural centre, which houses the local festivals and the tradition
s of the
German minority. Another highlight of the district is the renewed Cross and the
14 Stations. 
memorial in
front of the cemetery gate, the statue of Saint Florian on the facade of a house,
the new Szent István square and his sculpture. Its old main street, the Szent
János street or the quarter of the craftsmen lost from its shine during the years
but its unique atmosphere could be brought back by reconstructing the old shop-fronts
and trade signs. The people of Felsőgalla safeguard their German traditions and
it is not only the community centre and the school but also the main street of
the district that provides place for the festivals. The Calvary in Alsógalla Szent
István Street with the Sculpture Made by László Varkoly 60 years old city — history
of a millennium 7 
Bánhida, which became a town in the Middle Ages, was
the biggest among the pre-settlements of Tatabánya as far as population and territory
is concerned. Bánhida fell a victim to the Ottoman invasion, and in 1543 it was
totally deserted. When count József Esterházy settled people in the neighbourhood,
it was an inhabited area again. There were catholic Slovakian and protestant Hungarian
people living here. Later in the following years another group of Slovakian settlers
arrived. In 1848–49 the citizens of Bánhida supported the revolution of independence
with their priest named József Fieba. The development of the settlement attracted
many craftsmen in
the second half of the 19th century. The beginning of mining
also had a positive effect on the development of Bánhida. The “old” houses which
represent the former image of the settlement are gone, but several detached and
semi-detached houses were built. Its old main street was renewed. The highlights
of the main street of Bánhida are the imposing Ro-World War Monument in Felsőgalla
Promenade in „hatos telep” Roman Catholic Church in Bánhida 60 years old city
— history of a millennium 8 man Catholic Church, the renewed Protestant Church,
the former town hall, the monuments for the Revolution of Independence of 1848,
the Industrial Skanzen or mining museum, the community centre and the parish hall,
which preserves Slovakian traditions.
The people in Alsógalla and Felsőgalla keep
German cultural heritage, while the inhabitants of Bánhida preserve the Slovakian
culture. 
ones were decaying due to the problems caused by undermining. A lot of
unique and representative buildings became victims of this process (the Workers’
Cultural Centre, the houses of mining offi cers, the Clubhouse and the State Shopping
Centre). Most buildings, which represent the mining heritage of the city and shape
the image of the whole settlement, are in the district of Tatabánya- Óváros. Without
these buildings, which refl ect the diversity of the city Tatabánya would not
have its unique style and beauty. Such characteristic building is the Jászai Mari
Theatre, the former casino of mining offi cers, the parkland, the Saint Parish
Hall of Tatabánya World War I Monument in the Parkland 60 years old city — history
of a millennium 10 Steven Church, the former parish hall of Tatabánya, the old
building of the miners’ hospital or the sport facilities.
There are also some
industrial sites preserved which commemorate the past and heritage of mining,
like the conveyor, the entrances of the incline shafts and the Industrial Skanzen.
In Újváros the typical atmosphere of Tatabánya is provided by the standard houses
built in the 50’s, the ornaments of the balconies, the main buildings built in
social realistic style, the rare species of trees, the statues and monuments,
the college, the library, the community centres, the City Museum, the Szent BorbálaSquare,
the Csónakázó Lake in Sárberek, the Lapatári mill in Kertváros and the
new Roman Catholic Church. These are all portions or complementary parts of our
memories or the old buildings remaining from the pre-settlements and also those
of the newly created values there. Saint Steven Church in Óváros The Old Miners’
Hospital Houses in Ótelep 60 years old city — history of a millennium 
Therefore, the aim of
the economic development policy of the city was to establish a firm and diverse
economic structure. This policy was fi rst of all based on the settlement of labour-intensive
production so that the unemployment rate would be reduced signifi cantly. As a
result of the successful and continuous structural changes there 11 The Power
Plant in Bánhida View of the Industrial Park from Kertváros Mésztelep 60 years
old city — history of a millennium 12 are also technologies present in the city
by now, which represent more added value, moreover, we have the research and development
sector present as well. The local government also paid great attention to the
housing, sports and recreational facilities in order to develop Tatabánya into
a city which offers both workplaces and a good standard of living. The Power Plant
in Óváros Ventilation Shaft No. I/a 60 years old city — history of a millennium
13 
During the political change the process of the economic
change speeded up due to and parallel with the effects
of the economical and social changes. The previously leading industries like coal
and bauxite mining, the open quarry, the cement and aluminium industries and the
state-owned construction industry were closed gradually. The local 14 60 éves
város — ezer éves múlt Entrance to an Incline Shaft The College for Modern Business
Studies 60 years old city — history of a millennium 15 government realised that
it had to set up a new economic strategy on its own. As a fi rst step labour-intensive
branches were settled in the city to handle
excessive unemployment. The technological (gas pipelines, telephone lines, sewage
system, by-passes, industrial sites, modern landfi ll site, recultivation of
degraded areas) and the human (College of Modern Business Studies, Economic Development
Organisation) infrastructure was established. The local government defi ned the
possible ways and tools of local economic development and established the fi rst
Economic Development Organisation (GFSZ) in Hungary.
The responsibilities of this
non-profi t organisation range from the reception of investors, the creation and
sustaining of workplaces, the promotion of public property utilisation to city
marketing. Its effective co-operation with the authorities and the public utility
companies enables the investors to get all the important facts and information
about the city within a day. The establishment of the Industrial Park rendered
it possible that suitable sites are available for the investors, but there are
also other industrial areas in other parts of the city which offer good prospects.
The Industrial Park 60 years old city — history of a millennium 16 
Owing
to the conscious developments and constructions in the past decade the most important
goal of the economic development strategy of the local government was achieved
in Tatabánya: a diverse economic structure in the city. There are signifi cant
automotive suppliers like the American- German joint venture Suoftec, the Japanese
AGC and Bridgestone operating in the Industrial Park. The well-known Danish pump
manufacturer company of Grundfos and the other Danish company of Coloplast, which
produces medical appliances, is also present in Tatabánya. The electronic industry
is represented by FCI Connections, the Sanmina-SCI and many others. Zenon Systems,
whichis involved in environmental industry, also has a department for research
and
development in Tatabánya. The local government pays particular attention to professional
training to ensure the required skilled workforce for the companies. As a part
of this the Bánki Donát Regional Integrated Training Centre was founded in Tatabánya
with a regional function. The economic development activities of the local government
are characterised by initiation, fl exibility and adaptation to the trends of
global economy. Tatabánya is ready to offer sites for dynamically developing industries
and developed technologies. The Housing Estates in Kertváros and the Industrial
Park 60 years old city — history of a millennium 17 4.
During the
20th century the city and its pre-settlements created many cultural values. The
oldest cultural institution, the Népház (Public Building), has been housing a
theatre, a cinema and several cultural groups since its inauguration The Jászai
Mari Theatre 60 years old city — history of a millennium 18 (1917). The Jászai
Mari Theatre has been operating in this building since 1991. The building has
just been renovated. Although, it has no permanent company, numerous independent
performances
and plays are presented there by means of the creation of a “virtual” company
besides the various programmes of the theatrical season.
There are several community
centres to accommodate local communities; the biggest of them is the Public Community
Centre (Közművelődés Háza),
which was inaugurated in the 80’s. In Bánhida the
Puskin Community Centre undertook the keeping of Slovakian traditions, while in
the community centres of Alsógalla and Felsőgalla the German traditions are preserved.
of the Industrial Skanzen, the “Voicebath”.
The various exhibitions of the Gallery of Contemporary Artists play a signifi
cant role in the development of visual culture. Amongst others the yearly “In
Memoriam” series and the exhibitions of the emigrated artists of the city have
to be emphasized. The system of the big city festivals has developed recently.
Besides the social anniversaries and the festivals on Miners’ Day, cultural and
art events like the Saint Stephen Days and Saint Barbara Days play a more signifi
cant role. The outdoor works of fine arts determine the image of the city. Besides
the monuments of the two world wars some others are worth mentioning, like the
older sculpture of Endre Ady by Miklós Melocco, the Saint Barbara sculpture and
the “Tree of Life” by László Péterfy,
the Martyr monument by István Marosits, and the newer busts of Ferenc Rákóczi
II. by Tamás Gaál, Saint Stephen by László Varkoly, Imre Nagy by Iván Paulikovics,
Béla Makk by László Szunyogh, and the art pieces of Viktor Lois in the area of
the “Voicebath”. World War Monument by Géza Nausch in Bánhida 60 years old city
— history of a millennium 23 
The architect
of the Lapatári Mill was Jakab Fellner, too. It was built in 1753. The Turul Monument
above the city is the tourist attraction of Tatabánya. Its creator, Gyula Donáth
was entrusted with this artistic work in 1896, however, the statue was only inaugurated
in 1907. The Turul Bird was also in-Lapatári Mil The Casino at the Power Plant
with the Water Tower 60 years old
city — history of a millennium 25 corporated into the new coat of arms of Tatabánya
as the symbol of the city after the political changes. The image of the city is
determined by a few other buildings, which were not ranked as monuments, never
theless, they contribute to the diversity of the city. Such buildings are the
Jászai Mari Theatre – Népház and the old-time Casino of mining offi cers right
opposite, which was built in secessionist style. The highlight of
Tatabánya is situated in a diverse natural environment.
It is enclosed by the
Gerecse and Vértes Mountains to the north, the east and the south, and it is bordered
by the Little Hungarian Plain to the west. The Szelim Cave can be approached from
the symbol
of Tatabánya, the Turul Monument along a path through the forest. It takes only
a short walk to get to the watching tower, which used to be a mining pit tower.
Fresh
air is ensured by the surrounding vast forests. At the border of the city the
Turul Park Forest
provides recreational and regenerational opportunities for the citizens. The development
of vineyards and weekend gardens is functionally linked to this. The broken, 140
meter high, steep terraced cliffs of the north-south oriented limestone range
of Kő Hill are considered to be rare geological formations. The Által stream fl
ows through Tatabánya. It is the biggest water catchment area in the region. It
is also fed by the water of the Galla stream. Gardens, parks, alleys con- Szelim
Cave 
The Castle at Várgesztes 60 years old city — history of a millennium 27 tribute
to the friendly atmosphere of the city. There is a peaceful parkland next to Népház
waiting for those who intend to relax. The Május 1 Park on the opposite side of
the building hosts the traditional fair on Miners’ Day. The centre of leisure
time activities is the Jubileum Park in Újváros. There is the Millennium Park
and the Csónakázó Lake in its neighbourhood. It is surrounded by a nice walking
way. Several big city festivals and events are organised here. The roads from
the city lead the visitors to rich sights, natural values and
monuments in all directions. The hiking ways of the surrounding mountains, the
fi shing opportunities provided by those lakes which evolved as a consequence
of mining
offer good recreation for many people. We turn left to see the Camandolese monastery
from the way to Oroszlány at the airport of Kecskéd. It is surrounded by picturesque
landscape as well as the ruins of the monastery and the temple at Vértesszentkereszt,
which were built in Roman style within the hills of Vértes. It is also worth walking
to these places from Tatabánya. The rich fl ora and fauna of the Vértes Mountain
still
attracts many tourists. We can get to Síkvölgy by bus. The system of artifi cial
lakes
in thisarea is the paradise of fi sherman.
Castle Vitány, which is part of the
castle-system
of Vértes and which was demolished during the Turkish times, can be reached along
an offi cial hiking footway. The hiking pathway leads from here to another member
of the castle-system: the castle of Gesztes. It is also possible to have a rest
on the
way by the Szarvas and Mátyás springs. Further pleasant excursion opportunities
are offered
by Csákányospuszta and the Mária ravine. The main road No. 1 which intercepts
the
city provides opportunities for other excursions to Tata via Vértesszőlős. Castle
Vitány in Vértes The Parkland 60 years old city — history of a millennium 28 
„Gerecse 50” performance tour 60 years old city — history
of a millennium 29 in the different classes of the national championships. Besides
competitive sports mass sports have always been popular in Tatabánya. There are
more than one thousand players in the local small fi eld football championship.
There are several amateurs taking part in the local bowling championship and in
the periodic competitions of the other departments of the sport club. The fi rst
and fi fth most popular performance tours in Hungary start and end in Tatabánya:
the Gerecse 50 (50 kilometres) in springtime and the Tatabánya 30 (30 kilometres)
in the autumn. The city is gradually improving its sport facilities. The football
stadium was renewed recently, where a new artifi cial turf fi eld and a new athletic
fi eld was inaugurated. The amateur football players
in Jubileum Sports Park also play on synthetic turf. The Imre Földi Sports Stadium
which is named after the outstanding weightlifter was renewed recently. Thousands
of sportsmen and their fans enjoy the world of sports in the sport facilities
of the city. Gyula Grosics playing for „Miners” Sport Club of Tatabánya in the
60’s Imre Földi, the Sportsmen of the Nation 60 years old city — history of a
millennium 8. 
