Hungary is a country of great natural wealth and beauty. It is well known for its rich mines, famous baths, and valuable mineral waters. Since I have already written in detail about these subjects in another place, I will not repeat them here. Instead, I will focus on other important features of the country that also deserve attention. One of the most remarkable qualities of Hungary is its rivers. In this respect, it surpasses many other countries in Europe.
Hungary as the Best Rivered Country in Europe
Hungary may rightly be called the best rivered country in Europe. No other land contains so many noble and useful streams within its borders. These rivers support trade, travel, and daily life. They also enrich the land and connect distant regions. From east to west and from north to south, Hungary is crossed by strong and navigable waters Purpose of the Journey.
The River Tisza on the Eastern Side
On the eastern side of Hungary flows the great and navigable River Tisza, also known in older writings by other names. This river rises in the region of Maramureș, at the foot of the high Carpathian Mountains. Along its long course, it receives many smaller rivers, including the Maris or Maros. Eventually, it joins the Danube between Varadin, St. Peter, and Belgrade.
The Tisza plays a major role in trade. Large quantities of natural stone salt are transported along this river. The salt comes from many mines in Hungary and Transylvania. Much of this salt is carried down the Tisza and then up the Danube to many places, as far as Pressburg. Transport beyond that point is restricted to protect the sale of Austrian salt, which provides income for the Emperor. A large amount of salt is also sent down the Danube and then up the Morava River into Serbia and neighboring lands Daily Sofia Tour.
Rivers of Western Hungary: The Rába
On the western side of Hungary runs the River Rába, also called the Rab. It rises in Styria and flows into the Danube near the city of Győr, once known as Rab. This is a significant river, as it receives several other rivers, including the Lafnitz, Pinka, and Güns.
The River Rába has also gained historical importance. Near its banks, close to St. Gotthard, the Imperial forces defeated the Ottoman army led by Ahmed, the Grand Vizier. When I visited the city of Győr, this event was still fresh in memory. Many people told me they had seen the bodies of men and horses floating in the river after the battle.
Southern Rivers: The Drava
In the southern regions of Hungary flows the River Drava, also known as the Drau. This river rises in the territory of Salzburg, once part of ancient Noricum. It flows through Carinthia and Hungary before joining the Danube near Erdőd, close to the ancient site of Teutoburgium. From its source to its end, the Drava travels nearly three hundred miles.
Near the point where it enters Hungary, the Drava receives the long River Mur. I observed this river in several places, even close to its source. I crossed it by strong bridges, including one near Villach and others between Klagenfurt and Mount Loibl. In one place, the river was divided by an island, with long wooden bridges on each side.
These rivers show the natural strength and richness of Hungary. They shape the land, support commerce, and record the history of the country. Through them, Hungary stands out as one of the most well-watered and valuable regions in Europe.
