Meaning “opening” or “entrance”, Szada stands as a village in Hungary with a name that hints at its historical significance. Szada is located in the Gödöllő Hills area. Its main road is part of the Gödöllő-Vác road.
Let’s delve into the story of Szada. This village is not just a place on the map. It is a vibrant community with a rich past and promising future.
Szada’s name possibly comes from the Finno-Ugric language. It may mean the mouth or entrance of something. Another explanation suggests a Slavic origin, meaning garden. This hints at Szada’s fertile lands and the importance of agriculture in its history.
Archaeological excavations around Szada have unearthed artifacts from various periods. These finds include the Neolithic, Celtic, Sarmatian, Hun, and Avar ages. The first written record of Szada dates back to 1325. King Louis I gifted Szada and Gödöllő to Peter Pohárus in that year.
The Grassalkovich family built their mansion in Szada around 1810 or 1820. Later, the Pejacsevich and Bánó families owned it. The Reformed church was built in 1928. It stands on the main road in the village center. It is opposite the Roman Catholic church. Before that, the Reformed community gathered in an old wooden-towered church. It was located next to the Mélyárok.
Historically, Szada was called “Fruit-bearing Saint Szada” by people in Pest. Although its soil is not ideal for all fruits, older residents remember cherry trees and mulberry fields. These provided a livelihood for the people of Szada.
The coat of arms of Szada reflects its identity. The green shield features a red and white division. This symbolizes the Árpád stripes. On the left, a golden tree on a blue background represents old Szada. It refers to “Fruit-bearing Saint Szada”. The golden tree signifies that the residents of Szada thrived through fruit cultivation. In 1895, Szada had 15,149 fruit trees. It ranked second in the Vác district.
In recent years, Szada has seen dynamic growth. Many families from Budapest and other cities are moving here. They are attracted by the peaceful setting and proximity to nature. Budapest is only a 15-minute drive away. Szada offers a family-friendly environment with new kindergartens and a three-story school.
Szada is also home to the Bertalan Székely Memorial House. Bertalan Székely was a famous Hungarian painter. His studio was located in Szada. Also you can explore the Local History Collection, where historical and ethnographical exhibitions await.
As you explore Szada, consider its layers of history and the spirit of its people. Szada is a village that cherishes its past. It also embraces a future filled with promise.