Gushing from the earth at 378 meters Disznó-forrás whispers stories of centuries past. This natural spring in Budapest’s 12th district holds a fascinating history. It’s located at 18 Szilassy Street. Legend claims the area was once a retreat for Buda’s Pasha’s harem. They knew the spring as Király-forrás or King’s Spring. Turkish names like Királ bunár or Királ bunár bain also existed. The Turks’ departure in 1686 led to new names Sauwiese and Saukopf. Sau means sow. This referred to the many wild boars in the area. The name Disznó-forrás wasn’t a mistake. It means Boar Spring. The -forrás suffix historically indicated a spring.
The spring house dates back to the late 1820s. A cast iron boar’s head spout was added in the 1890s. This channeled the spring water. The spout was removed in 1955. It was later restored to its original form. The water’s journey continues. It’s collected via a nearly 30-meter-long tunnel. This leads directly to the city’s sewage system. A restaurant called Disznó-forrás restaurant was built nearby in the 1840s. It was named after the cast iron boar’s head on its facade. In 1857 its capacity was increased to 600 guests. By 1990-91 it could accommodate 120.
King Matthias’ hunting lodge stood nearby in Zugliget. Disznó-forrás provided water for the lodge. The spring was a popular excursion spot. A nearby green-marked hiking trail passes the spring. You can also see a Kossuth Lajos memorial nearby. The Disznó-forrás restaurant once thrived. It hosted theatre groups and other celebrities. Accounts of high prices and rude staff also exist. The restaurant is now closed. The spring itself remains on private land. It is not currently open to the public. This fascinating spring though continues to silently tell its story. Its history spans centuries from Turkish times to a popular restaurant and beyond.