Festetics Major and small castle in Fenékpuszta

The Former Stronghold of Horse Breeding

History:

Originally, the court of Vienna’s Spanish Riding School was located at the estate, which was bought by the Festetics in 1739, who established a famous stud farm in Fenékpuszta – the golden age of which is attributed to Count Tasziló Festetics 2th, who achieved great results in the history of equestrian sports. At the same time, horse breeding and riding training was conducted at the Georgikon in Keszthely. Along with the continuous development, stables, manors and servant’s quarters were built, and by 1820 the small castle visible today was built. From here, the bailiff – such as Júlia Szendrey’s father – would ride to make a report to the count. In 1894, the Pine-allee was created, through which the Festetics could drive directly from the castle to the small castle. Horse breeding was conducted on the estate until 1938, after which a mill, hemp mill and collective farm operated on the area.

Renovated manor:

The former Festetics estate and the small castle have been renovated within the framework of a tender. In addition to presenting the life and history of the Festetics family, the exhibition on the lower level of the small castle of the complex, which was completely reconstructed, also reveals many interesting details from the world of horse breeding. The “Count’s Room” upstairs brings the aristocratic lifestyle of the family to life, showing the legacy of previous generations and their famous horses through their portraits. A new equestrian museum has been created in the Calf and Herd Stables. The Memorial Museum in the former Herd Stables is a traditional museum, while in the Calf Stables, interactive exhibits tell the story of the Fenék stud and the Festetics’ horse breeding and racing. The development has also created community spaces in the area, which are ideal for events such as horse camps and active recreation programmes.

Approach and Parking

If we travel from Keszthely towards Balatonszentgyörgy on the 71 road, or cycle on the bike path, signs indicate the former small castle and the farm building, turning right from the road we find it. Nearby parking is free.

HintNear the former manor and small castle you can find the ruins of the Roman fort, it's worth visiting! In Fenékpuszta you can also find the Small-Balaton Visitor Center and the Bird Ringing Station, don't miss them either!