Rákosszentmihály

Across the sprawling cityscape, Rákoszentmihály stands as a testament to time. Once a proud independent town, Rákoszentmihály now thrives as part of Budapest’s 16th district. Its name, meaning “Saint Michael of Rákos,” hints at its rich history. The name originates from a church dedicated to Saint Michael, first documented in 1335. Rákoszentmihály wasn’t just a place of worship. It also served as a significant meeting place. Important national assemblies were held within its boundaries. Imagine nobles and leaders gathering on the Rákos field, where the Kerepesi Road now intersects the Rákos stream. Here, they acknowledged King Charles Robert, elected John Hunyadi as governor, and proclaimed Matthias Corvinus as king. Rákoszentmihály’s story takes a dramatic turn during the Turkish occupation. The once-vibrant village became deserted. However, the resilient spirit of Rákoszentmihály prevailed. In 1661, the Wattay family acquired the land. Later, in 1731, Antal Grassalkovich took ownership and brought Slovaks to settle in the area. During this time, Rákoszentmihály, known as Kis- and Nagyszentmihály puszta, belonged to Csömör. Agriculture flourished, with a focus on vegetable production. An estate center for producing goods stood at the corner of what are now József and Petőfi streets. The 19th century brought a wave of development. Following the 1848-49 revolution, the “Grassalkovich empire” dissolved. The “Belgian Bank” acquired the land and sold it to a public corporation. This corporation divided and sold the land in plots, leading to the emergence of several settlements, including Kisszentmihály, Szentgyörgytelep, Almásytelep, József főhercegtelep, Vidatelep, and Árpádtelep. Rákoszentmihály officially became an independent town on December 1, 1902. The arrival of the railway in 1893 and the HÉV line in 1911, connecting it directly to the capital, further fueled its growth. The 1920 census revealed a population of 14,500, almost exclusively Hungarian. Sports played a crucial role in the town’s life, boasting four clubs and multiple sports fields and beaches. In 1950, Rákoszentmihály became part of Budapest’s 16th district. Today, Rákoszentmihály continues to evolve while preserving its unique identity. From a small village to a thriving urban hub, its journey reflects the resilience and spirit of its people.