Keszthely Main Square Live Webcam

Keszthely is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns on the western shore of Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe. Located just a few kilometers (a few miles) from the famous thermal Lake Hévíz, this Hungarian town attracts visitors with its rich historical heritage, Baroque architecture, and the cozy atmosphere of a provincial European town. The history of Keszthely spans more than 750 years; it was granted city status in the 15th century. Today, it is a cultural center of the Balaton region, where the Balaton Festival is held annually.

The Main Square (Fő tér) is a charming pedestrian area paved with white cobblestones and fully renovated in 2012. It is surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and restaurants. Its main landmarks include the late Baroque Town Hall, built in 1790; the Gothic Franciscan Church (founded in 1386) with unique 14th–15th century Gothic frescoes; and a tall Neo-Gothic bell tower. At the center of the square stands the Holy Trinity Column—an outstanding Baroque “plague column,” erected in 1770 by Count Pál Festetics as a sign of gratitude for the end of the plague epidemic.

Beyond the square, Keszthely’s main attractions include the Baroque Festetics Palace (1745), featuring a museum and a library of 90,000 volumes; the Balaton Museum; and Georgikon, the first agricultural educational institution in Europe, founded in 1797. Keszthely is an ideal destination for travelers who wish to combine exploring Hungary’s rich history and Baroque architectural masterpieces with relaxing on the scenic shores of Lake Balaton. The Main Square, with its Town Hall, Franciscan Church, and Holy Trinity Column, forms the historical heart of the city.