Perhaps the most peculiar formations in Hungary are these Beehive rocks. Beehive stones of Hungary are unique rock formations. These are often naturally conical towers. Niches or cavities are carved into their sides.
Let’s explore the mystery of the Beehive rocks. These rocks with niches can be found near Budapest. They are in the Pilis mountains and the Budai-hegység hills. You can find them especially on its Tétényi-fennsík plateau. The city most surrounded by these formations is Eger. Eger is in the Bükkalja area. This lies between the Tarna stream and the Hejő and Szinva valleys.
Beehive stones were first called “kaptárkövek” by Szomolya residents. This might be after a meadow near the rocks. Beehives could be stored in this meadow. Near Eger, they were called “stones with dummy windows”. Other names include “stones with churns” and “idol stones”. Some rocks even have names like “Devil-tower”.
In 2014, a decree defined a “kaptárkő” as a natural stone formation. It can also be artificially altered. It must have one or more visible carved niches. These niches have cultural history significance. The protected status preserves the Beehive rocks and surroundings. This is for their natural and cultural value.
Remember you must not carve or climb on the Beehive rocks. Do not put objects on them. If you want to do research, consult the national park directorate.
The Bükkalja is mainly volcanic tuffs. These tuffs were created by volcanic activity in the Miocene era. Conical rocks were shaped by ice age factors. These factors include erosion and weathering. The rocks were shaped further artificially.
On average, niches are 60 cm high. They are 30 cm wide. They are 25 to 30 cm deep. Some niches have recessed rims with holes. These might be for mounting niche covers. The diverse shapes suggest custom cover sizes.
The most typical Beehive rocks are near Eger. You can find them on Nyerges-hegy and Mész-tető. You can also find them near Szomolya on Vén-hegy. Also, check near Cserépváralja on Mangó-tető. Altogether, there are 479 niches on 82 Beehive rocks at 41 sites in the Bükkalja area. Pest county also has a smaller number of Beehive rocks.
Many theories exist about the niches’ intended use. Gyula Bartalos thought they were shrines. He thought ashes of human remains were put into them. Gáspár Klein suggested they were idol niches. He dated them to the Hungarian conquest. Andor Saád believed they were for beekeeping. However, archaeological finds couldn’t justify any theory.
Archaeological excavations have been few. Finds include pottery fragments and a sword fragment. These finds date to the 11th–14th centuries. The conclusion was that the niches were used then. However, this may not be the first use.
The accepted view is that the niches are from forest rock beekeeping. This was introduced by Kabars or Agrians. Some doubt this due to the diversity of niche directions. Narrow or downward-facing niches don’t seem suitable for beekeeping. Written sources don’t mention rock beekeeping either. The mystery remains unsolved.
Currently, the purpose is unknown. We can’t answer “Who? When? Why?” without doubts. Topographic data makes beekeeping doubtful. Reasons to exclude cultic use haven’t been drawn up.
Ladislaus I forbade pagan rituals at springs, trees, and stones in 1092. “Lapis” might mean Beehive rocks. Arnold Ipolyi’s work on Hungarian mythology may help. He says sacrifices were made at sacred places. Altars were set up using special stones.
Beehive rocks are also known in Eurasia. Similar rocks are on the Balkan peninsula. They can be found in Bulgaria and the Rhodope mountains. This suggests a link to the Agrian people. Antonio Bonfini said Eger belonged to the Agrians. They were Thracian-Illyrian refugees.
Dating attempts suggest three niche carving periods. These range from the 5th to the 16th centuries. This suggests the rituals were practiced by various groups. These include Huns and Hungarians.
Exploring Beehive rocks can lead you into the past. These rocks offer a view into different cultures. They show the interaction of nature and human activity. The Beehive rocks are a testament to the past. They are waiting for the right eyes to discover their secrets.