Isn’t it enchanting? Manófalva stands before us. This whimsical elf village along the Danube River is a testament to the magic that happens when nature meets art.
Manófalva is the creation of Tamás Kánya. He is a talented land art artist. Tamás transformed his childhood dreams into reality. He built a miniature city for birds and squirrels.
Each autumn, Tamás carefully constructs Manófalva. He uses only materials he finds in nature. The village boasts tiny doors and windows. Bridges, ladders, balconies, stairs and even swings add to its charm. Roofs are crafted from tree fungus and bark. Fences are woven from willow branches. Orange berries add splashes of color to the roofs. Horse chestnuts, duck stones, pebbles and shells decorate the village.
The Duna flood washed away Manófalva. Tamás rebuilt it. Some pieces were found. Most of it was built from new elements. Rebuilding Manófalva took two weeks. The hardest part? It was hauling back the heavy logs that form the base. The flood swept them away. Some were 50 to 100 meters away.
Manófalva is more than just a pretty sight. It serves as a haven for local wildlife. Tits and nuthatches feast on the seeds provided. Squirrels collect nuts and hazelnuts.
The installation stretches 15 meters. The houses occupy only 5 meters of forest space. Tamás also erected signs to protect Manófalva. The signs remind visitors that it’s a forest installation. It is also a feeding station for birds and squirrels. It is not a playground. Parents are asked to ensure children admire the village from a distance. They should respect the artistic creation.
Tamás asks that visitors not scatter birdseed. Some seeds are unsuitable for the birds. They attract rats. If people care for Manófalva it may survive until the next Duna flood.
Manófalva is known by many names. Some call it “mókusfalva”. This means Squirrel Village. Others call it “manólak”. That means Elf Home. Some even call it “tündérszálló”. It means Fairy Dwelling.
So let us protect this tiny fairytale village. Let others enjoy Manófalva. Let us remember that enchanting things exist around us. We just need to know where to look.