1: Geographical description of the area

Description

This area is made up of 20 municipalities, spanning regions within Northwest Nógrád and Northern Pest. Many of these municipalities are located within Ipoly Valley, and some span across Börzsöny Hills, which is an area located in Danube-Ipoly National Park. Within this defined region, is a population of almost 20,000 residents, with 49% men and 51% women. The average population density of the region is 44.6 people per km squared. Only one settlement in the region is considered a town, Szob, with a population of 2483. The smallest village in the region, Tésa, is located in Pest, less than 1km away from the banks of the Ipoly River. The region has a diverse range of habitats, as it contains many forests, plains, and hills, rivers and standing waters. The European Environmental Agency, through the Natura 2000 project, have highlighted a total of 20 protected habitats in the area: heath and scrub, grassland, rocky habitats, forests and bogs, mires and fens. The highest point of the region is Csóványos mountain, at an altitude of 938m. This mountain is located in the Börzsöny Hills which were formed 14-16 million years ago through volcanic activity. The lowest elevation of the region is between 126m-145m above sea level throughout the Ipoly Valley.

Indicators

No.	Title	Unit of measure	Quantity	Sources
1.1	Land area by type: a. mountain; b. forest; c. hilly; d. plain; e. water-covered (by type: lake, river,…)	km2	a, b, c, d, total: 39692.36	Natura 2000 Viewer and Natura Maintanence Plan
1.2	Topographic diversity (geographic form and elevation variation)	%	1x Heath and Scrub, 7x Grassland, 3x Rocky Habitats, 8x Forests, 1x Bogs, Mires and Fens	Natura 2000 Viewer and Natura Maintanence Plan
1.3	Population on 1 January by age group, sex and NUTS 3 or equivalent	n.	Total Population: 19674 Men: 9687; Women: 9987; 0-14yr: 2797; 15-64yr: 12718; 65yr: 4159	Hungarian Central Statistical Office (for exact region)
1.4	Population: Structure indicators by NUTS 3 or equivalent region	n.	19674	Hungarian Central Statistical Office (for exact region)
1.5	Population density	n./sq. km	44.6/sq.km	Hungarian Central Statistical Office (for exact region)
1.6	Municipalities	n.	20	Hungarian Central Statistical Office (for exact region)
1.7	Population in urban areas/total	%	12.6%	City Population Data Hungary (for exact region)
1.8	Rural centers	n.	19	City Population Data Hungary (for exact region)

2: Communities and Stakeholders

Description

The stakeholders involved in the Hungary Mystical Danube project are from various sectors across Hungary nationally, but also at regional and local levels. These include the Ministry of Agriculture, which oversees ecotourism policies at a national level from Budapest. The Hungarian Tourism Agency plays a significant role in promoting tourism within the country, also based in Budapest. In the educational sector, the Hungarian Open Air Museum in Szentendre and the Palóc Museum in Balassagyarmat contribute to preserving and showcasing Hungary’s cultural heritage. In the transport sector, the Active and Ecotourism Development Centre in Budapest focuses on promoting sustainable travel. NGOs such as CEEweb in Budapest and Palóc Út Egyesület in Heves and Nógrád counties work on environmental and cultural preservation initiatives. Local-level stakeholders include the Nógrád County Municipality, which governs regional policies, and the Duna-Ipoly National Park Directorate in Esztergom, which manages protected areas. Additionally, the Börzsöny Museum and the Börzsöny Ring in Szob contribute to local education and transport, respectively. NGOs like the Sugárkankalin Tourist Association in Nógrád, Magosfa Alapítvány in Kemence, and Ipoly Unió also play active roles in local environmental and tourism initiatives.

The Mystical Danube project not only aims to promote ecotourism and cultural preservation but also places a significant emphasis on uplifting disadvantaged communities across Hungary. The project is committed to creating opportunities and fostering inclusion for elderly people, unemployed individuals, youth, ethnic minorities, and women. By engaging these groups in various project activities, such as cultural heritage preservation, sustainable tourism initiatives, and educational programs, the project seeks to enhance their social and economic well-being.

Indicators

National and regional level stakeholders

2.1	Government
Name Location Score Link Ministry of National Economy, Ministry of Agriculture (Ecotourism) Budapest Medium https://2015-2019.kormany.hu/en/ministry-of-agriculture Nógrád County Municipality Nógrád Medium https://www.nograd.hu
2.2	(Tourism) Business Sector
Name Location Score Link ASP12 Hungarian Tourism Agency for Hungary Budapest High https://www.isto.international/isto_members/hungarian-tourism-agency/
2.3	Educational Sector
Name Location Score Link ASP5 Hungarian Open Air Museum from Hungary Szentendre High https://skanzen.hu/en Palóc Museum Balassagyarmat Medium https://palocmuzeum.hu
2.4	Transport Sector
Name Location Score Link AOFK The Active and Ecotourism Development Centre Budapest Medium https://aofk.hu
2.5	NGOs
Name Location Score Link CEEweb Budapest High https://www.ceeweb.org Palóc Út Egyesület Heves county and Nógrád county Medium https://www.ceginformacio.hu/cr9310187117_EN

Local level stakeholders

2.6	Government
Name Location Score Link Szob City Municipality Szob Medium https://szob.hu Ipolydamásd Municipality Ipolydamásd Medium https://ipolydamasd.hu/onkormanyzat Letkés Municipality Letkés Medium http://letkes.hu Ipolytölgyes Municipality Ipolytölgyes Medium https://www.ipolytolgyes.hu Vámosmikola Municipality Vámosmikola Medium https://www.vamosmikola.hu Perőcsény Municipality Perőcsény Medium https://perocseny.hu Kemence Municipality Kemence Medium https://www.kemence.hu Tésa Municipality Tésa Medium http://tesa.fw.hu/fo.html Bernecebaráti Municipality Bernecebaráti Medium http://www.bernecebarati.hu/kedves-latogato Hont Municipality Hont Medium https://wp.hont.hu Ipolyvece Municipality Ipolyvece Medium https://ipolyvece.hu Dejtár Municipality Dejtár Medium https://dejtar.hu Ipolyszög Municipality Ipolyszög Medium https://ipolyszog.hu Nagyoroszi Municipality Nagyoroszi Medium https://nagyoroszi.hu Municipality of Diósjenő Diósjenő Medium https://diosjeno.hu Borsosberény Municipality Borsosberény Medium https://www.borsosbereny.hu Drégelypalánk Municipality Drégelypalánk Medium http://dregelypalank.hu Patak Municipality Patak Medium https://patak.hu Nagybörzsöny Municipality Nagybörzsöny Medium https://nagyborzsony.hu Horpács Municipality Horpács Medium https://horpacs.hu
2.7	(Tourism) Business Sector
Name Location Score Link Duna-Ipoly National Park Directorate Esztergom High https://www.dunaipoly.hu/en/places/protected-areas/duna-ipoly-national-park-directorate
2.8	Educational Sector
Name Location Score Link Börzsöny Múzeum Szob Low https://borzsonyring.hu
2.9	Transport Sector
Name Location Score Link Börzsöny Ring Szob, Börzsöny Low https://borzsonyring.hu
2.10	NGOs
Name Location Score Link Sugárkankalin* Tourist Association Nógrád High http://sugarkankalin.hu Magosfa Alapítvány Kemence High https://www.magosfa.hu Ipoly Unió Balassagyarmat High https://www.facebook.com/ipolyunio/?locale=hu_HU
2.11	Local communities / minorities
Name Location Score Link Elderly People Elderly homes/Care homes: Municipality of Budapest Home for the Elderly Vámosmikola Ipolysági út High https://www.idosekoldala.hu/intezmenyek/ad/onkormanyzati-1/fovarosi-onkormanyzat-idosek-otthona-vamosmikola-771 Unemployed People Commmunity Centres: Művelődési ház, Ipolydamásd, Fő u. 74, 2631 Hungary High Youth High Ethnic Minorities Medium Women Medium

3: Economy & Tourism

Description

The economy spanning across our Pilot site region has varied levels of development. Most well developed, is the Pest region of the Pilot site, with an average 2022 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 7791185 million HUF (though this data is taken from across Pest as a whole NUTS3 region). This is significantly higher than the 2022 GDP for Nógrád, which is the second lowest in the whole of Hungary, standing at 572766 million HUF. Further, Nógrád’s employment is 49/1000 persons, an indicator of wider employment trends across our Pilot site and the NUTS3 region as a whole.

In 2022, Nógrád’s unemployment rate was 3.5%, 0.1% lower than the national average from the same year. This was higher than Pest’s unemployment rate, standing at 2.1%. 10% of those unemployed in Nógrád had last worked 3-4 years ago, whereas in Pest this was 9%. Between 2010-2020, all counties in Hungary approached the capital, Budapest, in terms of competitiveness. However, research has found that during the period, Nógrád was the only county that stagnated during the period (Berkes and Dusek, 2023). Though other counties have economically changed rank in this 10 year period, Nógrád has remained the lowest since 2011, highlighting its low economic integration and competitiveness.

Indicators

3.1.1 Gross domestic product (GDP) at current market prices by NUTS 3 or equivalent regions

NUTS 3 name or equivalent regions name	Gross domestic product (GDP)	Sources/Links	Notes/Remarks
Nógrád	572766.79	Eurostat GDP	Out of 21 NUTS3 regions in Hungary, for this data, Nógrád is 20th/21st place
Pest	7791185.18	Eurostat GDP	Out of 21 NUTS3 regions in Hungary, for this data, Pest is 2nd/21st place

3.1.2 Employment (thousand persons) by NUTS 3 or equivalent regions

NUTS 3 name or equivalent regions name	Employment (thousand persons)	Sources/Links	Notes/Remarks
Nógrád	49.44	Eurostat Employment	Out of 21 NUTS3 regions in Hungary, for this data, Nógrád is 20th/21st place
Pest	511.05	Eurostat Employment	Out of 21 NUTS3 regions in Hungary, for this data, Pest is 2nd/21st place

3.1.3 Dispersion of regional employment rates of age group 15-64 by NUTS 3 or equivalent regions

NUTS 3 name or equivalent regions name	Dispersion of regional employment rates	Sources/Links	Notes/Remarks
Nógrád	42.90%	https://nepszamlalas2022.ksh.hu/en/database/	78,318/ total pop 182,459
Pest	48.80%	https://nepszamlalas2022.ksh.hu/en/database/	651,067/ total pop 1,333,533

3.1.4 Dispersion of regional unemployment rates by NUTS 3 or equivalent regions

NUTS 3 name or equivalent regions name	Dispersion of regional unemployment rates	Sources/Links	Notes/Remarks
Nógrád	3.5%	https://nepszamlalas2022.ksh.hu/en/database/	6410/182459
Pest	2.1%	https://nepszamlalas2022.ksh.hu/en/database/	651,067/ total pop 1,333,533

3.1.5 Business demography by size class and NUTS 3 or equivalent regions

NUTS 3 name or equivalent regions name	Business demography by size class	Sources/Links	Notes/Remarks
Nógrád	11894	Eurostat Business Demography	annually
Pest	147597	Eurostat Business Demography	annually

3.2. Description and data on tourism specifics

As stated in the Nógrád County Climate Strategy ‘Tourism has been the ""sector of hope"" for Nógrád County for decades, but the expected dynamism of the expected growth in tourism has not occurred in the period following the turn of the millennium’ (2017). However, the region retains significant natural and cultural assets which may be utilised and hihglighted in order to boost the tourist economy within the region. Included in this, are natural areas, such as the Börzsöny - an area covered by the Duna-Ipoly National Park with a diverse range of hiking and cycling trails and natural wonders. Börzsöny is a 600km squared region which has historically been a mining area and region for traditional craftsmanship. Drégely Castle, in the north of Börzsöny, is an example site for architectural, historical and cultural tourism. This region is uniquely the region of former settlements of the Palóc people, as well as having an interesting and specific geological history, with the Karancs-Medves plateau, volcanic rock and previously being an area of the Pannonian Sea.

The Duna-Ipoly National Park Directorate, founded in 1997, hosts a website which is an excellent place to find resources on both the Börzsöny Hills and the Ipoly Valley regions in terms of: tourism, activities and heritage. The Open Air Museum, or Ethnographic Village Museum of Ócsa, hosts an ethnographic collection for the region, and is also a place to find out more about guided tours on nature trails. Lynx House and Visitor Center (located in Királyrét) and the Börzsöny Museum (located in Szob) are also good centres for finding out more about local natural and cultural heritage.

Looking to the future, the Nógrád County Climate Strategy has posited that nature-based ecotourism, in particular, should be developed, alongside promoting the environmentally friendly development of the local economy.

Indicators

3.2.1 Number of establishments, bedrooms and bed-places by NUTS 3 or equivalent regions

NUTS 3 name or equivalent regions name	Number of establishments and bed-places	Sources/Links	Notes/Remarks
Nógrád	61	Eurostat n. Establishments	Data for 2011 (most recent data available)
Pest	143	Eurostat n. Establishments	Data for 2011 (most recent data available)

3.2.2 Nights spent in tourist accommodation by NUTS 3 or equivalent regions

NUTS 3 name or equivalent regions name	Nights spent in tourist accommodation	Sources/Links	Notes/Remarks
Nógrád	150,188	Eurostat Nights Tourism	Data for 2023
Pest	1,412,254	Eurostat Nights Tourism	Data for 2023

---

No.	Title	Unit of measure	Quantity	Sources
3.2.4	Tourist visits (year) and other information of tourist value	n.	402000	Duna-Ipoly National Park Directorate
3.2.5	Duration of the period favorable to green mobility	n. of months / year	12 months - trains run throughout the year, green mobility prioritised in the Nógrád County Climate Strategy
3.2.7	Other activities tourists carry out while staying in the region (by type and %)	%	Winter Sports, Hiking, Car Tourism, Cycling	Duna-Ipoly National Park Directorate

4: Infrastructure and Mobility

Description

In this region, there is a degree of green infrastructure, with train routes covering over 120 km through Börzsöny and Ipoly Valley. Due to the limited train routes across the region, access to certain parts is only possible via car. However, since 2021, the planning and development of further light railways have commenced nationally, with one railway planned in the region—the Kemence Small Railway. It is expected that green infrastructure in the region will improve. Train ticket prices are generally affordable, with no price difference for buying tickets earlier than the day of departure. Green mobility in the region also takes the form of hiking routes and cycling tourism. The Börzsöny Hills have a variety of well-maintained hiking trails, making hiking the predominant form of tourism in the area. Nationally, there has been an investment of HUF 4 billion for the planning and development of new regionally important cycle routes. The Börzsöny Cycling Trail is well-marked and suitable for all levels, offering scenic routes through valleys and along forest paths. The National Blue Trail, part of the European Long Distance Walking Route passes through this region.

The Ipoly Valley Greenway, a dedicated cycling path, stretches along the river, providing a serene environment perfect for families and casual cyclists. Hikers can enjoy the Ipoly Valley Nature Trail, which showcases the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Mary’s Pilgrimage Route, which connects spiritual and religious heritage sites via a network of hiking and cycling trails across Eastern Europe, also passes through this region.

Indicators

No.	Title	Unit of measure	Quantity	Sources
4.1	Transport infrastructure (by type and length)	km	A major road runs around the Börzsöny Hills, and there a smaller roads leading to each rural settlement across the Hills.	Cartographia A Térképszakértő Börzsöny
4.2	Existing trails (type, length, conditions, …)	km	1000km Some key trails through the region include: Ipoly Valley Nature Trail, the Börzsöny Cycling Trail, and the Ipoly Valley Greenway.	Cartographia A Térképszakértő Börzsöny
4.3	Transport-related accidents (by mode of transport, other characteristics)	n. (per year)	Nógrád: 671; Pest: 3944	https://www.ksh.hu/stadat_files/ege/en/ege0079.html
4.4	Percentage of population riding a bike	%
4.5	Railroad infrastructure	km	Train: 129Km;	MAV Train Route Map

5: Environment – Nature – Climate

Description

The annual mean temperature in 2022 of the region was 16.5 degrees C, with the maximum temp between 1991-2020 averaging at 27.63 degrees C and minimum at 2.08 degrees C. Hungary as a whole is experiencing more frequent heat waves, droughts and flooding vulnerability sue to climate change. Nógrád and northern Pest are not excluded from these climate averse situations. This region, however, also experiences some regional specificities, with higher vulnerability and exposure to flash flooding, likelihood of drinking water contamination, biodiversity loss and invasive species advance and forest fire vulnerability. All of these are outlines in the Nógrád Climate Stategy, published in 2017. In 2023, plans were unveiled by the Alteo solar power plant, located in Nógrád to upgrade is power by over $17 million, producing enough energy for 10,000 households (BCSDH, 2023). Currently, this plant is schedules to generate electricity by mid-2024. As stated by the Shared Green Deal (EU), this region suffers from energy poverty and inhbaitatnts lack energy efficiency and financial awareness. In recent years, the Shared Green Deal has begin to undertake an experiment in Nógrád aiming to complete a number of energy renovations amongst local households, which will eventually be scaled up. These two examples show that Nógrád is a region of interest regarding renewables, and focusing on making energy and water consumption sustainable has already been highlighted by a number of national and international stakeholders.

Sources: https://sharedgreendeal.eu/hubs/green-homes-nograd and https://bcsdh.hu/en/member-news/alteo-to-double-its-solar-power-plant-portfolio/

5.1. Indicators

No.	Title	Unit of measure	Quantity	Sources
5.1.1	Water supply	N. of households	3958 (households connected to hot water)	Hungarian Central Statistical Office (NUTS3 data for Nógrád) - 2022 statistics
5.1.2	Energy supply (last year)	n.	Nógrád: Monthly average gas consumption per household consumer (m³a) 107.5; Monthly average electricity consumption per household consumer (kWha): 199.3; Pest: Monthly average gas consumption per household consumer (m³a): 124; Monthly average electricity consumption per household consumer (kWha): 234	Hungarian Central Statistical Office - 2022 statistics
5.1.3	Maximum, minimum and mean temperature (Average)	C.	Maximum: Pest: 28.51 Nógrád: 27.63; Minimum: Pest: 2.71 Nógrád: 2.08; Mean stat 2: Pest: 17.3 Nógrád: 16.5	Climate Knowledge Portal - This is data taken from NUTS3 Regions Pest HU120 and Nógrád HU313
5.1.4	Variation of exceptional climatic adverse events against previous year	n.	Exposure to flash flooding, drinking water sources vulnerability, natural values vulnerability (biodiversity loss, invasive species advance), forest fire vulnerability	Nograd Climate Strategy Handbook
5.1.6	Maximum, minimum and mean precipitation (by year)	mm	DJF:115.96; MAM: 141.81; JJA:219.22; SON: 160.23	https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/country/hungary/climate-data-historical

5.2. Description of natural heritage

This region is one of abundant nature, with many different habitats hosting a variety of different species. In Ipoly Valley, the European Environmental Agency have located 9 distinct habitats in need of protection; from standing waters to alluvial forests. They have highlighted that currently, the EU Conservation Status of 7 of these habitats is ‘Bad’, meaning that these ‘habitats are in serious danger of disappearing (at least regionally)’. This shows that there is much work to be done in the region in terms of protection. The European Environmental Agency have located 14 distinct habitats in need of protection in the Börzsöny Hills, collectively bringing the total habitats in need of protection in our region up to 23. Though some of the habitats in Börzsöny Hills are currently categorised as ‘Bad’ in conservation status – such as the Pannonic woods – 4/14 habitats are labeled ‘Good’ meaning these ‘habitats are in a situation where it is prospering and with good prospects to do so in the future as well.’ Included in these well conserved habitats are: siliceous rocky slopes, beech forests and uplands siliceous screes. In the Börzsöny Hills a range of species are found: fire-bellied toad, jersey tiger (butterfly), stag beetle and many species of bat. In Ipoly Valley a range of fish species are found, amongst them: spined loach, white-finned gidgeon, balon’s ruffe and streber. These regions share species of bat, butterfly and toad.

Natural heritage list

No.	Name	Location	Condition	Protection level	Remarks
5.2.1	Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 2	Bad	https://eunis.eea.europa.eu/habitats/10065
5.2.2	Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition - type vegetation	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 2 Overall: 2	Poor	https://eunis.eea.europa.eu/habitats/10065
5.2.3	Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 2 Overall: 2	Poor	https://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/?data_id=dataSource_7-Layman_Sites_4270%3A21789&page=Page-1&sitecode=HUDI20026&views=Sites_View_Habitats
5.2.4	Pannonic sand steppes	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 2	Bad
5.2.5	Alluvial meadows of river valleys of the Cnidion dubii	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 1 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 1	Bad
5.2.6	Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis)	Ipoly Valley	Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis)	Bad
5.2.7	Alkaline fens	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 2	Bad
5.2.8	Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae)	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 2	Bad
5.2.9	Riparian mixed forests of Quercus robur, Ulmus laevis and Ulmus minor, Fraxinus excelsior or Fraxinus angustifolia, along the great rivers (Ulmenion minoris)	Ipoly Valley	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 2	Bad
5.2.10	Subcontinental peri-Pannonic scrub	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 2 Overall: 2	Poor
5.2.11	Rupicolous pannonic grasslands (Stipo-Festucetalia pallentis)	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 2	Poor
5.2.12	Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia) (* important orchid sites)	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 2 Overall: 2	Poor
5.2.13	Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 1 Landscape Integrity: 3 Overall: 2	Bad
5.2.14	Mountain hay meadows	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 2 Overall: 2	Poor
5.2.15	Medio-European upland siliceous screes	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 3 Landscape Integrity: 3 Overall: 3	Good
5.2.16	Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 3 Landscape Integrity: 3 Overall: 3	Good
5.2.17	Siliceous rock with pioneer vegetation of the Sedo-Scleranthion or of the Sedo albi-Veronicion dillenii	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 3 Landscape Integrity: 3 Overall: 3	Good
5.2.18	Luzulo-Fagetum beech forests	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 2 Overall: 2	Good
5.2.19	Asperulo-Fagetum beech forests	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 1 Overall: 2	Poor
5.2.20	Tilio-Acerion forests of slopes, screes and ravines	Börzsöny Hills	Ecological Health: 2 Landscape Integrity: 2 Overall: 2	Poor

Map of natural heritage

6: Socio-Cultural Information

Description

The region surrounding Drégely Castle in Hungary reflects a rich historical and socio-cultural evolution shaped by events from the 13th century to today. Built as a defensive measure after the Mongol invasion, Drégely Castle marks a period of heightened fortification in Hungary. Over the centuries, the region has experienced significant socio-cultural changes due to events such as Mongol invasions, Ottoman conquests, and the devastations of the World Wars, which led to both cultural consolidation and transformation. The Turul Monument exemplifies this evolution, serving both as a memorial to the war dead and a symbol of Hungarian mythology and national identity, representing a renewed assertion of cultural heritage in response to external threats.

In recent times, the local community has played an active role in heritage conservation and tourism, reflecting modern socio-cultural changes. The restoration of sites like Drégely Castle and the community-driven completion of the Trianon Memorial demonstrate a blend of historical reverence and local initiative. Furthermore, the development of heritage railways, such as the Szob-Nagybörzsöny Forest Railway and Kemence Forest Museum Railway, underscores efforts to preserve and celebrate local culture while promoting tourism and fostering community engagement.

Together, these initiatives illustrate the dynamic evolution of the socio-cultural environment in this Hungarian region, characterized by historical continuity and adaptive change, shaped by both historical events and contemporary community actions.

The Börzsöny Hills and Ipoly Valley region in Hungary boasts a rich tapestry of intangible cultural heritage, reflecting the area's deep-rooted traditions and evolving practices. This heritage spans dialects, folklore, performing arts, social customs, and craftsmanship, creating a vibrant cultural landscape.

The Palóc dialect, unique to the Nógrád region, is characterized by distinctive vowel pronunciations and omission of conjunctions. Local legends include the Börzsöny Giants, benevolent beings protecting villagers, and The Giant’s Stone, a massive stone thrown by a giant, symbolizing nature's power. The Fairy Tale of the Ipoly River speaks of mystical water spirits, while the Legend of the Lost Village narrates a village swallowed by the river, resurfacing during floods.

The region also boasts rich performing arts traditions. Palóc festive costumes are noted for their intricate design, admired by historical figures like Sándor Petőfi. Folk dances and folk music, featuring instruments such as the cimbalom and violin, are integral to local celebrations, performed by groups like the Palóc Band. Drama, folk theatre, and masquerades are also prominent, with events such as the UNESCO-listed Easter Festival in Hollókő showcasing traditional plays and customs.

Newborn customs include rituals to protect the child from evil spirits, such as specific ceremonies and protective measures before christening. Marriage customs feature elaborate ceremonies and traditional rituals, emphasizing community and cultural values. Death customs involve symbolic practices to aid the soul’s transition.

Craftsmanship includes boundary and paving stone making, reflecting local mining traditions. Egg shell ornamentsand embroidery highlight traditional artistry, with intricate patterns and local symbolism. Culinary traditions feature Palóc soup, a lighter variant of goulash, and Szob syrup, historically made from local berries.

Protecting cultural heritage is vital on multiple scales. Locally, it fosters community pride and identity, strengthening social cohesion. Nationally, it preserves a country’s unique cultural narrative and history, contributing to a shared sense of belonging. Internationally, safeguarding cultural heritage ensures that diverse traditions and practices are recognized and valued, promoting global understanding and respect for different cultures. Together, these efforts help maintain the dynamic cultural landscape, blending historical continuity with modern adaptations and ensuring that heritage remains a living, evolving part of human experience.

6.1. List of tangible cultural heritage related to natural heritage

No.	Name	Location	Condition	Protection level	Remarks
6.1.1	Drégely Castle	Drégelypalánk, Drégely vára, 2646	Good	Good
6.1.2	World War 1 Memorials	WRPH+9F Nagybörzsöny	Good	Good
6.1.3	Skoly Castle	Bernecebaráti, Szokolyi u., 2639	Good	Good
6.1.4	Damásdi vár	Ipolydamásd, Fő u. 113, 2631 Hungary	Medium	Medium
6.1.5	WW1 and WW2 Turul Monument	Perőcsény, Kossuth Lajos u. 36, 2637 Hungary	Good	Good
6.1.6	Trianon emlékmű	Zebegény, Deák Ferenc út, 2627 Hungary	Good	Good
6.1.7	Szob-Nagybörzsöny Forest Railway	Nagybörzsöny, Völgy u. 52, 2634 Hungary	Good	Good
6.1.8	Kemence Forest Museum Railway	Kemence, Csarnavölgyi út 45, 2638 Hungary	Good	Good

6.2. List of intangible cultural heritage

6.2.1	Oral traditions and expressions including language as a vehicle of the intangible cultural heritage
Name Location Condition Protection level Remarks Dialect Nógrád Living heritage Locally protected The Legend of the Börzsöny Giants Börzsöny Hills Short before extinction Locally protected The Story of the Giant’s Stone Börzsöny Hills Short before extinction Locally protected The Fairy Tale of the Ipoly River Ipoly Valley Short before extinction Locally protected The Legend of the Lost Village Ipoly Valley Short before extinction Locally protected
6.2.2	Performing arts
Name Location Condition Protection level Remarks Palóc festive costumes Nógrád Randomly occurring Locally protected Folk Dances Nógrád Living heritage Locally protected Folk Music Nógrád Living heritage Locally protected Drama and Folk Theatre and Masquerades and Costumed Events Nógrád Living heritage Internationally protected
6.2.3	Social practices
Name Location Condition Protection level Remarks Newborn Customs Nógrád Randomly occurring Locally protected Death Customs Nógrád Randomly occurring Locally protected Marriage Customs Nógrád Randomly occurring Locally protected
6.2.4	Rituals and festive events
Name Location Condition Protection level Remarks State Foundation Day (20th August) Hungary Living heritage Nationally protected Christmas Day (25th December) Hungary Living heritage Internationally protected New Years Day Hungary Living heritage Internationally protected Spiritual Youth Day of Nagymaros Nagymaros Living heritage Internationally protected
6.2.5	Knowledge and practice about nature and the universe
Name Location Condition Protection level Remarks Cult of Mary Nógrád Randomly occurring Internationally protected Sun and Fire symbolism Nógrád Randomly occurring Locally protected Agricultural Practices and folk knowledge Nógrád Randomly occurring Locally protected
6.2.6	Traditional craftsmanship
Name Location Condition Protection level Remarks Boundary Stone Making Szob Randomly occurring Locally protected Paving Stone Making Szob Randomly occurring Locally protected Egg Shell Ornaments Börzsöny Randomly occurring Locally protected Embroidery Nógrád Randomly occurring Locally protected

7: National and macro-regional policies, strategies and projects

Description

The Hungarian National Heritage Strategy, led by the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, focuses on preserving Hungary's cultural and natural heritage. Key actions include safeguarding historical sites, protecting traditional practices, and enhancing heritage tourism through restoration projects and cultural event support. The Hungarian National Tourism Development Strategy, managed by the Ministry of Tourism, aims to boost tourism infrastructure and promote Hungary as a tourist destination. Its objectives are to increase tourism revenue, enhance visitor experiences, and support sustainable tourism through infrastructure investments, marketing campaigns, and thematic tourism routes. Additionally, the Hungarian Rural Development Strategy, overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture, targets rural economic development, quality of life improvements, and support for local businesses and tourism. It provides funding and infrastructure support to enhance rural areas.

At the macro-regional level, the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR), established by the European Commission, promotes economic growth, regional cooperation, and the protection of cultural and natural resources. It supports cross-border projects, infrastructure development, and environmental conservation. The European Landscape Convention, initiated by the Council of Europe, focuses on the protection and management of European landscapes. It encourages integrating landscape considerations into policies and supports sustainable land use. Horizon Europe, launched by the European Commission, funds research and innovation projects related to cultural heritage and tourism. It aims to address societal challenges and improve heritage preservation.

Locally, the Regional Development Strategy for Nógrád County focuses on sustainable development and integrating cultural heritage into regional planning. The Börzsöny Hills Regional Park Management Plan and Ipoly Valley Nature Conservation Area Management Plan aim to preserve natural landscapes and promote eco-friendly tourism. The Nógrád County Tourism Development Plan seeks to enhance tourism by leveraging local cultural and natural assets.

7.1. Policies and/or Strategies

No.: 7.1.1 Title: Hungarian National Heritage Strategy Author: Hungarian Ministry of Culture and Innovation Period: Founded 2010. This strategy generally operates on a 10-year cycle, with periodic reviews and updates. The most recent updates and developments are aligned with Hungary's 2020-2030 cultural heritage goals. Remarks: Focus: Preserving and promoting Hungary's cultural and natural heritage. Key Objectives: Safeguard historical sites, protect traditional cultural practices, and enhance heritage tourism. Actions: Restoration projects, heritage education programs, and support for cultural events. Link: https://www.ksh.hu/hssz_tagok_kim_eng

No.: 7.1.2 Title: Hungarian National Tourism Development Strategy Author: Hungarian Ministry of Tourism Period: Founded 2005. The strategy typically covers a 10-year period. The latest update, aligning with EU priorities, extends to 2025, focusing on sustainable tourism and infrastructure improvements. Remarks: Focus: Developing tourism infrastructure and promoting Hungary as a tourist destination. Key Objectives: Increase tourism revenue, enhance visitor experiences, and support sustainable tourism practices. Actions: Investment in tourism infrastructure, marketing campaigns, and development of thematic tourism routes. Link: https://www.isto.international/isto_members/hungarian-tourism-agency/

No.: 7.1.3 Title: Hungarian Rural Development Strategy Author: Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture. It aligns with EU rural development frameworks and policies. Period: Major frameworks established in 2007. It usually aligns with EU rural development programming periods, which are generally seven years. The current framework is part of the 2023-2027 programming period. Remarks: Focus: Boosting economic development in rural areas through various initiatives. Key Objectives: Improve quality of life, support local businesses, and enhance rural tourism. Actions: Funding for local development projects, support for agricultural tourism, and improvement of local infrastructure. Link: https://www.fao.org/faolex/results/details/en/c/LEX-FAOC161837/

No.: 7.1.4 Title: EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) Author: EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) and the European Commission Period: Founded 2011. The strategy is designed for a long-term implementation, with a focus on ongoing development and periodic evaluations, generally aligning with EU programming cycles. Remarks: Focus: Promoting economic growth and improving connectivity across the Danube River region. Key Objectives: Enhance regional cooperation, boost economic development, and protect cultural and natural resources. Actions: Cross-border projects, infrastructure development, and environmental conservation initiatives. Link: https://danube-region.eu

No.: 7.1.5 Title: European Landscape Convention Author: Council of Europe Period: Founded 2000. It is an ongoing framework, with member states expected to integrate its principles into national policies continuously. The convention promotes long-term landscape management and planning. Remarks: Focus: Promoting the protection, management, and planning of European landscapes. Key Objectives: Improve landscape quality, integrate landscape considerations into policies, and involve local communities. Actions: Support for regional landscape projects, integration of landscape policies into national strategies, and promotion of sustainable land use. Link: https://www.coe.int/en/web/landscape

No.: 7.1.6 Title: Horizon Europe Program Author: The European Commission Period: Founded 2021. The program is set for a seven-year period, from 2021 to 2027, focusing on research and innovation, including cultural heritage and tourism projects. Remarks: Focus: Funding research and innovation across Europe, including projects related to cultural heritage and tourism. Key Objectives: Support innovative projects that address societal challenges and enhance cultural and natural heritage. Actions: Funding for research projects, collaborative initiatives, and development of new technologies for heritage preservation and tourism enhancement. Link: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en

7.2. Projects

No.: 7.2.1 Title: Regional Development Strategy for Nógrád County Implementer: Nógrád County Local Government Period: The most recent comprehensive version was introduced in 2014. The strategy generally spans a 5-10 year period, with updates and revisions based on local needs and EU regulations. Remarks: Focus: This strategy aims to enhance the economic, social, and environmental conditions of Nógrád County. It emphasizes sustainable development, including the preservation of cultural and natural heritage and promotion of tourism. Key Objectives: Improve infrastructure, support local businesses, and integrate cultural and natural heritage into regional development. Actions: Investment in cultural and tourism infrastructure, community engagement in heritage conservation, and support for local heritage sites. Link: https://www.nograd.hu

No.: 7.2.2 Title: Börzsöny Hills Regional Park Management Plan Implementer: Börzsöny Hills Regional Park Directorate Period: Developed in 2003. The plan is updated periodically, with the most recent revisions made in 2020. It typically covers a 10-year period. Remarks: Focus: The management plan for the Börzsöny Hills aims to protect and preserve the natural landscape while promoting sustainable tourism. Key Objectives: Conservation of biodiversity, management of natural resources, and promotion of eco-tourism. Actions: Habitat restoration projects, development of hiking and nature trails, and educational programs for visitors. Link: https://www.dunaipoly.hu/en/places/protected-areas/duna-ipoly-national-park-directorate

No.: 7.2.3 Title: Ipoly Valley Nature Conservation Area Management Plan Implementer: Ipoly Valley Nature Conservation Area Directorate Period: Established in 2001. Updated every 10 years, with the latest plan revision completed in 2021. Remarks: Focus: The management plan for the Ipoly Valley aims to safeguard the unique natural environment and promote eco-friendly tourism. Key Objectives: Protect local flora and fauna, manage natural resources sustainably, and enhance visitor experiences. Actions: Restoration of natural habitats, development of visitor centers and trails, and implementation of conservation measures. Link: https://www.dunaipoly.hu/en/places/protected-areas/duna-ipoly-national-park-directorate

No.: 7.2.4 Title: Nógrád County Tourism Development Plan Implementer: Nógrád County Tourism Office Period: Updates made in 2015. This typically covers a 5-year period, with periodic updates based on tourism trends and local developments. Remarks: Focus: This plan focuses on enhancing tourism in Nógrád County by leveraging its cultural and natural assets. Key Objectives: Increase tourist visits, improve tourism infrastructure, and promote local cultural and natural heritage. Actions: Development of tourism routes, marketing campaigns, and support for local cultural events and festivals. Link: https://www.nogradgeopark.eu/en/sights/nograd-tourism-information-center