Discover Szomolya

On the western slope of Vén-hegy in Kaptár-völgy lies a rhyolite tuff formation comprising eight larger rocks with niches and stone cones. The Szomolyai Kaptárkövek protected area was designated in 1960. The group has 117 niches—the most of any Hungarian group of beehive stones.

The rocks and stone cones form a geological formation whose niches are a defining feature of the Kaptárkövek. The details about the rock type, location and number make the site easy to understand even without prior geological knowledge: you can connect the group’s unusual shape with its exceptional density of niches. This combination of landscape and a protected area with cultural and historical significance is characteristic of Szomolya.

The Szomolya – Kaptárkő Tanösvény educational trail leads to the natural and cultural-historical values of the protected area. It provides a thematic framework for viewing the rock formation not only as a landscape, but also in its historical context.

Szomolyai lace is another cultural tradition. Knowledge of how to make it has been passed down from generation to generation. The Fekete Cseresznye Művelődési ház has an exhibition on lace-making; visitors may also be able to watch the handicrafts being made there. No schedule or access conditions are specified, so you should not count on this as a regularly scheduled demonstration.

The wider destination of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén offers other nature and culture themes. The short Aggtelek Cave Tour is one kilometre long, takes 60 minutes and is rated easy. The Baradla-Domica cave system is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Caves of the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst. This gives you two distinct points of reference for planning: a specific tour duration and a natural heritage site of international significance.

The Tokaj wine region is also part of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén. Its climate, soil quality and slope exposure are suitable for viticulture, and the region is legally protected as a designated wine-growing area. Another cultural highlight is Diósgyőr Castle in Miskolc: it flourished in the 14th century under King Louis the Great. Later, it served as a residence and as a wedding gift for six queens. These examples broaden the regional perspective without conflating the rock formation in Szomolya or its lace-making tradition with other places.

First, consider whether Szomolya’s Kaptárkövek and lace-making will be the focus of your trip, or whether you would also like to explore other themes in Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén. When choosing accommodation, check its stated location in relation to your own plans. This lets you factor in your interests in nature and culture without treating different places as a single excursion destination.

Discover more destinations: Szentistván, Mezőkeresztes, Sály, Négyes, Bogács, Cserépfalu, Cserépváralja, Mezőkövesd.

How many niches do the Szomolyai Kaptárkövek have?

The group has 117 niches, the most of any Hungarian group of beehive stones.

Where does the Szomolya – Kaptárkő Tanösvény educational trail lead?

It leads to the natural and cultural-historical values of the Szomolyai Kaptárkövek protected area.

Where can you learn more about Szomolyai lace?

The Fekete Cseresznye Művelődési ház has an exhibition on lace-making. Visitors may also be able to watch the handicrafts being made there.

Go to the wider travel overview: Mezőkövesdi.