Introduction

The question of which city outside of Hungary is lsquo;the most Hungarianrsquo; is a topic of debate, with various contenders often cited. Among the most prominent is Timioara in Romania, known for its significant Hungarian-speaking population and rich cultural heritage. However, other cities such as Berehove in Ukraine, which is a ldquo;small but culturally significantrdquo; city, and even London in the United Kingdom, where Hungarian is heard constantly in public spaces, offer compelling cases. This article explores the various factors that define a ldquo;Hungarian city outside of Hungaryrdquo; and highlights notable cities in Eastern Europe and beyond.

Timioara: The Significant Hungarian Community

Timioara, located in the western part of Romania, is often regarded as the ldquo;most Hungarian cityrdquo; outside of Hungary. With a substantial Hungarian-speaking population and historical ties to Hungary, Timioara stands out for its vibrant Hungarian community, historical landmarks, and cultural events. The city's rich cultural heritage includes the Gothic Church of the Ascension and the House of Hungarian Art, which showcase Hungary's influence on the region.

Berehove: A Cultural Centre of the Hungarian Minority

{@Berehove Ukraine} is a relatively small city in Ukraine that serves as a significant cultural centre for the Hungarian minority. Located in the Zakarpattia Oblast, Berehove has a 48.1% Hungarian population according to the 2011 census. The architecture and atmosphere of Berehove are reminiscent of Hungarian cities, and many friends and acquaintances from Berehove contribute to its cultural vibrancy. This connection highlights the strong sense of community and cultural continuity among Hungarians in Ukraine.

London: The City with the Largest Hungarian Community

London, the capital of the United Kingdom, hosts the second-largest Hungarian-speaking community in the world. According to the latest surveys, there are over 200,000 Hungarian speakers in London. This number is staggering, considering that London is not a small town but a major metropolis. The prevalence of Hungarian in public spaces, such as trains and buses, demonstrates the city's vibrant Hungarian community. This phenomenon is unique and something Hungarians abroad do not experience to the same extent, making it a standout feature of the Hungarian diaspora.

Hungarian Communities in Eastern Europe and Beyond

While Berehove and London are notable for their Hungarian communities, there are several other cities in Eastern Europe and beyond that have significant Hungarian populations. These include:

Cluj-Napoca (Kolozsvár, Romania): A major cultural centre with a large Hungarian community. Cluj-Napoca is one of the most important Hungarian cities outside of Hungary, with numerous Hungarian language schools and cultural events celebrating Hungarian heritage. Subotica (Szabadka, Serbia): Another significant cultural centre, Subotica has a rich Hungarian history and is home to the famous Subotica Zoo, which was designed by Hungarian architect László Mez?. Targu Mures (Marosvásárhely, Romania): Known for its distinct Hungarian identity, Targu Mures preserves its Hungarian heritage through numerous cultural institutions and events. Kosice (Kassa, Slovakia): A city with a strong Hungarian presence, Kosice has a vibrant Hungarian minority that maintains its traditions and culture. Cleveland, USA: The Hungarian community in Cleveland is one of the largest in the United States, with over 53,000 Hungarian descendants. Toronto, Canada: Toronto has a growing Hungarian population, particularly in the Danforth neighborhood, where Hungarian cultural events and institutions thrive.

These cities, along with others like Sfantu Gheorghe, Budapest (the most significant Hungarian city in Serbia), and several other Romanian cities, offer a rich tapestry of experience for Hungarian communities outside of Hungary.

Conclusion

The most Hungarian city outside of Hungary is a matter of personal perspective and context. Each of the cities mentioned possesses unique characteristics that reflect the diverse experiences of Hungarians living abroad. Whether it is the historical and cultural treasures of Timioara, the rich community life of Berehove, the bustling urban vibrancy of London, or the ethnic diversity of cities like Targu Mures, each city tells a story of the Hungarian diaspora and its enduring legacy.