The Secret of the Sopron Herb Garden: Where Hungary’s Oldest Love Letters Were Born!

The history and highlights of Sopron’s Herb Garden

The Botanical Garden of Sopron University — commonly referred to by locals as the Herb Garden — is a lush oasis over 100 years old nestled in the heart of the Lower Lőverek area. The 17.2-hectare protected site boasts an impressive dendrological collection, which is nationally unique: it houses around 4,000 species of woody and numerous herbaceous plants. Originally used as a military practice ground, the area was transformed at the end of the 19th century into a park for the Royal Hungarian Honvéd Secondary School, and later — responding to the needs of university education — developed into an arboricultural botanical garden.

In the 1920s, the garden was created through the preservation and development of the forestry traditions from Selmecbánya, today’s Banská Štiavnica. Today, the Sopron Herb Garden is not only a site for education and research but also a popular place for city relaxation, romantic walks, birdwatching, and diverse cultural programs. A notable feature here is the seaside sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum), Hungary’s largest specimen, which has become a symbol of the city and a timeless emblem of love.

Since 1978, the Herb Garden has operated as a protected natural area, and wandering among rare pines, junipers, deciduous trees, lindens, beeches, and wild chestnuts, visitors can experience a genuine living museum. Its changing face throughout the seasons offers a rewarding experience for both nature lovers and tourists exploring the city.

The Sopron Herb Garden is not only a pride of the local community but also an essential part of the country’s cultural and tourism scene. The garden features various themed walking routes, allowing visitors to discover plant rarities and historical relics, including informative boards related to the Selmec forestry traditions.

Hungary’s oldest love letters and the literary legacy of the Herb Garden

Although many legends are associated with the Sopron Herb Garden, from a scholarly perspective, the oldest surviving Hungarian love letters are not directly linked to this location but rather date back to Western Hungary and present-day Burgenland in the early 16th century. The first known Hungarian-language love letters were exchanged between Thurzó Elek, the notary, and his fiancée, Ormosdi Székely Magdolna, in the late 1520s, primarily around the historic Güssing (Németújvár) region.

The exchange of letters between Kanizsai Orsolya and Nádasdy Tamás, also from the 16th century, plays a significant role in Hungary’s epistolary literature. These correspondences reveal the emotional and linguistic expressions of courtship from that era. Not only are these love letters literary gems, but they also serve as invaluable social history sources: providing insight into courtship customs, language development, and evolving gender roles of the period.

The literary significance of the Sopron Herb Garden and its surrounding region lies in the vibrant noble and aristocratic life along the Austria-Hungary border zone during the centuries. This environment fostered secret meetings, love messages, and poetic exchanges. The profound emotional richness of 16th-century love stories and letters continues to inspire those who seek the unique intersection of nature, literature, and romance.

The concept of “Hungarian love letters” does not end in the 16th century: around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, love correspondence became increasingly intimate and direct, as exemplified by the surviving letters of Széll Ödön and Katona József. The Sopron Herb Garden can thus be seen metaphorically as a “secret writing room,” where stories of love and nature are reborn — whether through real or imagined letters.

Western Hungary and Burgenland: the home of love letters

The region’s spiritual heritage remains vibrant today: Sopron and its surroundings — including nearby towns like Kőszeg, Sárvár, and Güssing — have long been lively centers of literary and historical connections among noble families of Roman Catholic and Protestant backgrounds, making love stories inseparable from their history. Through these letters, we get a glimpse into everyday life of the past: courtship customs, wedding preparations, secret meetings, portraying a relatable picture of the 16th to 19th centuries.

This preserved romantic legacy offers a unique charm to the region: Sopron’s botanical garden and its grounds often host themed literary walks, where visitors can explore iconic Hungarian love letter literature pieces—reclaiming memories and inspiration in a tranquil, strolling environment.

From love letters to romantic walks: a pathway of passion

The walking path connecting emotions, handwritten secrets, and natural beauty in the Sopron Herb Garden offers a true journey back in time. Its winding trails are shaded by ancient linden and wild chestnut trees, with birds serenading amid the foliage: every season, the garden rewards visitors with new impressions, scents, colors, and atmospheres. It’s no wonder that this place is especially popular among couples in love, but it also offers refreshing experiences for families or solo explorers.

The romantic route can be tailored in various ways: around flowerbeds surrounding sculptures, quiet secluded groves, or at the base of the seaside sequoia, which invokes a sense of endless eternity. Benches across the park have witnessed countless lovers sharing thoughts, dreams, and perhaps secret letters.

The majestic trees of the Herb Garden symbolize the connection between nature and love: centuries-old trunks represent eternity, intertwined roots reflect deep bonds, and spring buds symbolize new beginnings. During a walk, one can observe the melodies of birds and the serenity of fallen leaves—elements that, alongside carefully chosen love quotes or wildflower bouquets, enhance a romantic visit.

The botanical garden, as a living museum, is an inspiring place for those interested in Hungarian romantic literature, the secrets of nature, or exploring their own feelings. Its literary pathways evoke the mood of past loves, inspiring modern lovers to revive this tradition: today, young couples often inscribe notes, or attach “love padlocks” to branches, benches, or well-known park furniture in Sopron.

The symbolism of trees and love in the Sopron Herb Garden

The long-held belief is that trees are symbols of love and fidelity. Growth rings signify relationship maturity, canopies protect the bonds, and roots embody shared history. Special trees like the shining linden or ancient oaks have, over centuries, witnessed whispered declarations of love, hope, and disappointment.

During romantic strolls through the Sopron garden, visitors can experience firsthand the eternal connection between nature and love. Under the branches, promises of love or even engagements can be made: it’s no coincidence that many love padlocks adorn various points throughout the park, symbolizing couples’ vows to eternal devotion.

Program ideas, couple experiences, and photo spots in Sopron’s secret garden

The Sopron Herb Garden is not only a botanical wonder but also a setting for romantic programs — whether it’s a couple’s walk, a themed literary guided tour, family outing, or an intimate anniversary celebration. The natural environment and historic atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and inspiration.

One of the most popular couple activities is the “Love Adventure Tour,” guided by a map through the most romantic points of the garden: surprises, photo spots, secret benches, and secluded groves await along the way. These hidden nooks have become favorite destinations for local and visiting lovers alike — especially the seaside sequoia area, a favorite proposal spot.

You can also take picture-perfect photos for Instagram or family albums: each season presents a different face of the garden. Spring with lilacs and tulips, summer with water lilies, and autumn with colorful leaf carpets create stunning backdrops. Many couples choose the Herb Garden as a location for engagement or wedding photos, with each corner offering new natural magic.

Highlights of the garden’s programs include the annual “Night in the Herb Garden,” where rare plants and romantic vistas are illuminated with soft candlelight. Birdwatching walks, musical picnics, and literary-art events ensure everyone finds a memorable and romantic activity.

Remember to take time for relaxation: choose a quiet bench, listen to the singing birds, and perhaps recall historic love letters that, while not directly written in the garden, echo its spirit and influence Sopron’s romantic secrets!

Accommodation suggestions in Sopron

To truly experience the romantic magic of Sopron, one of the best options is the Hotel Szieszta. Located right in the heart of Lőverek, this hotel offers easy walking access to the Sopron Herb Garden and other iconic green spots in the city. Hotel Szieszta welcomes guests with a special atmosphere suitable for couples and families alike: spacious, renovated rooms, extensive wellness and fitness facilities, and a terrace restaurant.

One of its main advantages is the quiet, park-like setting, making it ideal for nature-connected relaxation or romantic weekends. The large wellness area — with saunas, a swimming pool, and a fitness room — helps recover after a long walk or themed city tour. If you plan to explore Sopron and then seek rest or a good book, the hotel’s landscaped grounds, sun terrace, and forest views provide peace and tranquility.

Proximity to the Hotel Szieszta also offers advantages for exploring the Herb Garden, the Lőverek trail routes, the Károly lookout tower, and the historic city center. The attentive staff, hearty breakfasts, and environmentally conscious approach attract both domestic and international visitors year after year.

Many other high-quality accommodations await in Sopron. For instance, the Pannonia Hotel, located in the city center, offers a more historic ambiance — ideal for those who want immediate access to the vibrant downtown but accept less proximity to nature. The charming Hotel Wollner provides elegance and comfort but is smaller, making it less suitable for large groups or families. The Fagus Hotel Conference & Spa, with its modern, stylish surroundings, caters to guests seeking exclusive wellness experiences, though it’s a bit further from the city’s historic core, favoring forest and nature lovers. Whichever option you choose, advance booking is recommended to enjoy the best services during your visit to the Sopron Herb Garden!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Hungary’s oldest love letters actually from the Sopron Herb Garden?

Despite the legends associated with the Sopron Herb Garden, historical documents indicate that Hungary’s earliest surviving love letters date from the 16th century in Western Hungary, mainly around Güssing (Németújvár). The association with Sopron stems more from its geographic proximity and its symbolic role in tourism and literature rather than direct origin.

2. What rare plants can I expect to see in the Sopron Herb Garden?

The Botanical Garden of Sopron University is renowned for its impressive collection: Hungary’s largest seaside sequoia, numerous rare pine species, deciduous trees, exotic shrubs, and protected flowers all thrive here. Ancient chestnuts, beeches, and lindens also add to the conservation value. Every season unveils new botanical marvels.

3. When is the best time to visit the Botanical Garden? Do I need to register in advance?

Generally, the garden is open from spring to autumn. Specific hours are available on the official Sopron University website. For group visits or thematic guided tours, prior registration is recommended. For individual tourists, spontaneous visits are often possible, depending on the season and events.

4. Why is the Sopron Herb Garden considered romantic? Why do couples love it?

Its quiet pathways, ancient trees, unique plant collections, and secluded resting spots create an ideal setting for couples. Its timeless atmosphere and legendary stories foster the mood where past and present loves can meet: it’s perfect for couples’ photos, romantic walks, or memorable anniversaries.

5. What is the connection between the Herb Garden and Selmec forestry tradition?

The garden’s development in the 1920s was significantly influenced by forestry education and collections transferred from Selmecbánya. This tradition continues today in the scientific presentation of plant rarities, sustainability efforts, and dendrological education.