Abbey · Tihany, Veszprém
Tihanyi Bencés Apátság
Benedictine abbey on the Tihany peninsula, with a Baroque church, medieval crypt and views over Lake Balaton.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Tihanyi Bencés Apátság
The Tihanyi Bencés Apátság sits on an elevation of the peninsula that juts out over Lake Balaton. The two towers and the reddish roofs are visual landmarks of the north shore. The monastery's foundation dates back to 1055, while the church that dominates the landscape has a Baroque appearance.
The crypt preserves the link to King Andrew I, the founder of the abbey. The contrast between this space and the upper church allows one to perceive different phases of the complex. The Benedictine community maintains the site's religious function, so the tourist route is adapted to the areas open to visitors.
After the interiors, walk around the surroundings to observe the lake and the shape of the peninsula. The nearby streets have low-rise buildings and do not require car travel between stops. Arrival from the shore, however, includes an ascent; consider the elevation if you come by boat.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
An hour and a half, including the immediate surroundings.
Best time
April to June and September to October are usually suitable for walking the peninsula.
How to get there
Buses from Balatonfüred serve Tihany; from a landing on the shore you must climb up to the abbey core.
Tip
Note the difference between the ancient crypt and the Baroque building above.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tihanyi Bencés Apátság
Is the visible church from the 11th century?
The foundation is medieval, but the upper church displays Baroque architecture.
What is the connection to Andrew I?
The king founded the monastery and his burial is in the crypt.
Is the abbey on the water's edge?
It occupies an elevation; arriving from the shore involves climbing up to the center of the peninsula.
