Renovated 13th Century Church in Rábaszentmiklós: A Charming Find
The renovated Árpád-era (13th century) church of St. Nicholas in Rábaszentmiklós, located in northwestern Hungary, was recently inaugurated. The Government Commissioner for the Development of Modern Settlements, Alpár Gyopáros, emphasized the importance of preserving the Christian values that are deeply rooted in the Hungarian countryside, particularly in villages and small towns.
Gyopáros highlighted the significance of faith in God, closeness to nature, respect for nature, solidarity, and community as values that have sustained the Hungarian people for centuries. He pointed out that churches within villages are essential sources of Hungarian heritage and must be preserved.
The region has seen significant investment in the restoration of churches, with nearly 40 churches in small villages undergoing renovations in the past decade, totaling over HUF 1 billion (EUR 2.5 million). Additionally, the Hungarian Villages Program has supported the renovation of parish buildings in more than 60 settlements with approximately HUF 1 billion in funding over the past five years.
Gyopáros emphasized the need to protect and nurture these values, especially in a time when they are being challenged in Hungary and globally. He urged continued efforts to safeguard villages, their inhabitants, and their cultural heritage.
The Árpád-era church in Rábaszentmiklós received support from the Hungarian Village Program and the Diocese of Győr for its renovation, including the restoration of the church tower and painting of shingles. The project engaged specialists from neighboring villages, ensuring the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.
Mayor Szabolcs Németh highlighted that the renovated church is now a noteworthy stop on the Sacravelo cycling pilgrimage route network and plans to include it in the Győr-Moson-Sopron County heritage list.
The dedication to preserving cultural heritage and promoting community values through initiatives like the restoration of historic churches underscores the commitment to nurturing the soul of the Hungarian nation in its rural heartland.
