Genealogy is not just the study of the past, but also the construction of a bridge between the past and the present, illuminating the path to the future
Genealogical research in Hungary offers a captivating journey into the past, revealing extraordinary family stories and contributing to the country's rich cultural heritage. Each year, the interest in discovering the origins of one's lineage grows, with more and more people asking the question, "Who were my ancestors?" Many turn to our center to unveil the mysteries of their past. Hungary's history is closely tied to the former Austro-Hungarian Empire and its diverse inhabitants, often leading genealogical research to exciting discoveries.
Archival documents available for genealogical research in Hungary span from the 16th century to the present day. Family archives, church records, population censuses, and various other materials serve as valuable sources of information about the past of each family. Our specialists assist not only in reconstructing family trees but also in bringing to life the stories of ancestors by adding historical context.
Conducting genealogical research in Hungary demands not just meticulousness and attention to detail but also an appreciation for the intricacies of local history and culture. Every family possesses its own uniqueness, and genealogical investigations serve as a means to uphold the memory of a multitude of lineages, intricately intertwined with varying fates.
One of the most crucial documents in genealogical research is the parish registers, where acts of baptism, marriage, and death were recorded. These documents were maintained in Catholic and Lutheran churches, as well as in Jewish synagogues. Entries in parish registers were made in Latin, Hungarian, other languages, and Hebrew (for Jews). Another important source widely preserved in Hungary is land tax records from the second half of the 18th century. This valuable source is known as "Mária Terézia Úrbéri Tabellák."
Additionally, our experts actively explore other valuable historical materials that help uncover the biographies of people who lived in past centuries. Important sources of biographical information often include personal records from the 19th and 20th centuries related to employment and education. Plans and descriptions of real estate can also shed light on the life of specific individuals. Special attention is given to local censuses (they were most often compiled in towns) and tax documents. All these materials allow for a more detailed insight into the everyday lives of ancestors who left their mark in history.
Time inexorably races forward, carrying away the pages of history and the mysterious destinies of ancestors left in the past. It's challenging to comprehend, but behind each person in the genealogical tree lies an entire lived life. These individuals left their mark in time, filling their lives with events, joy, sorrow, happiness, and sadness. Despite having long faded into oblivion, their legacy, like an invisible thread, connects us to the past. The importance of preserving this history is undeniable. The European Genealogical Center provides an opportunity to dive into family history. Remembering, cherishing, and respecting it not only allows us to delve into our past but also strengthens our connection to what makes us a unique part of this world.