Medieval University, Pécs

Landscape: Balázs Almási
Architect: Antal Gergely
Text: Eszter Götz
Photos: Balázs Almási, Mária Tatai

Remains of the very first university in Hungary were found behind the Cathedral of Pécs. The archaeological site is open to the public now after many years. Modelled after the university of Bologna, the university of Pécs lacking a faculty of theology was licensed by Pope Urban V in 1367 to train students in the seven liberal arts as well as in law and medicine for a long time. The building was pulled down in 1664 and it was not until 1985 that the remains of its auditorium maximus, the corridors and the minor lecture halls were found. As a result of the reconstruction of the structure and the rehabilitation of its environment now there is an historical neighbourhood comprising three levels with an integral design scheme which is highly crystallized in materials, forms and palette whilst featuring a refined atmosphere. The tandem of landscape architect Balázs Almási and architect Antal Gergely evoke the past in the present by preserving its originality whilst continually communicating with the present.

Client: Magyar Nemzeti Vagyonkezelő Zrt.
General design: Balázs Almási, Antal Gergely
Structure: László Szlancsik – STS Kft.
Water mechanics: Péter Karlócai – RILTI Kft.
Archaeology: Gergely Búzás
Consultant: Ilona Schönerné Pusztai