Culture · 50 of the best in Budapest
Matyó embroidery and Hungarian folk art
The back story
About Matyó embroidery and Hungarian folk art
Hungary’s folk art is famous for its colour, above all the flower-strewn embroidery of the Matyó people of Mezőkövesd, recognised by UNESCO. In Budapest, you can see the finest pieces in museums and buy work by today’s makers.
The Matyó
The Matyó, a Catholic community around Mezőkövesd in north-eastern Hungary, developed in the 19th century an exuberant style of embroidery, with large roses and other flowers in red, blue, green and yellow on black or white cloth. The folk art of the Matyó is inscribed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.
Regions and styles
Other regions have their own traditions: the white-on-white embroidery of Kalocsa, later painted onto walls and porcelain in bright colours, the blue-dyed cloth (kékfestő) recognised by UNESCO, carved and painted furniture, and pottery.
A Matyó rose can have more colours than a garden.
Where to see it
The Museum of Ethnography, in its new building in City Park, holds one of the great collections of Hungarian folk art, and the Hungarian Heritage House stages folk dance and music.
Where to buy
Look for handmade pieces in craft shops and at seasonal craft fairs, such as the Festival of Folk Arts in the Buda Castle, usually held around 20 August.
Our advice: ask whether embroidery is hand- or machine-stitched before you buy, and if you visit in August, spend an afternoon at the Festival of Folk Arts in the Castle District.
Why it's on our list
- The Matyó
- Regions and styles
- Where to see it
- Where to buy
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Matyó embroidery and Hungarian folk art before you go.