Just as the rivers of Hungary are full of fish, they are also rich in water birds. During the winter season, many rivers become covered with large groups of birds resting on the water or along the banks. I did not see many swans on the River Danube, but I observed many other kinds of birds in great numbers.
Among these were ducks, geese, and other common waterfowl. Near the city of Belgrade, I even saw pelicans, which are not often expected so far inland. These birds find plenty of food in the rivers and wetlands, where fish are abundant and the waters remain calm during certain seasons Sofia Walking Tour.
Fertile Land and Rich Harvests
As the waters of this country are rich in fish, so too is the land rich in food. Hungary produces large quantities of provisions and is especially famous for two basic supports of life: bread and wine. The quality of bread in this region is among the best in Europe.
The bread is made with long and careful kneading, which makes it light, healthy, and good-tasting. It is also very cheap. For the price of two pence in Hungary, one could buy as much bread as would cost twelve pence in England. This made daily life easier for the common people Capital Cities Along the Danube.
Bread and Food in Turkish Territories
During my travels through the Turkish-controlled lands, I found the bread to be equally good and well-flavored. When eaten with wine, it made a fine meal. Even when eaten with water alone, it was enough to satisfy hunger. This shows how well basic food was prepared throughout the region.
Grapes and Famous Wines
The country also produces excellent grapes, which are both large and delicious. The grapes grown at Virovitica, near Pécs, are especially well known. The wines of Hungary are of a noble and generous quality.
The wines of Tokaj are highly respected and valued throughout Europe. The wines of Sirmium, in the southern part of Hungary, are also rich and pleasant in taste. According to tradition, the Roman Emperor Probus first planted vineyards in this region, especially around Mount Almus, also called Fruska Gora.
Wine Trade and Variety
Many other regions also produce fine wines. Large quantities are brought to Vienna, where more than thirty different kinds of wine are sold. These wines come from various parts of Hungary and neighboring lands, showing the wide reach of this trade.
Farming and Good Land Management
The soil of Hungary is naturally fertile, but the people also practice good farming methods. This is especially true in Upper Hungary and in areas not controlled by the Turks. When I visited near the end of February, I saw the countryside lit up each night with fires.
These fires were used to burn old grass, herbs, and crop remains. After this, the fields grew back even more strongly. This method helped improve pasture and farmland.
Storing Crops and Times of Danger
The people do not usually store grain in barns or large stacks. Instead, they use deep underground caves to keep their crops safe. These caves protect grain from thieves and from sudden enemy attacks.
Near Topoľčany, during the last war, Turkish and Tatar forces invaded the area. The local people hid in these underground places. Sadly, some Turks who spoke the Slavic language tricked them into coming out by claiming the danger had passed. The people were captured and taken far away, never to return.
Hungary’s rivers, land, and farming practices show a country rich in natural resources. Fish, birds, bread, and wine supported daily life, while careful farming and storage methods helped people survive in uncertain times.
