Whispers of piety and royalty echo from the stones. This is the Dominican Convent on Margaret Island. A place steeped in history. It stands as a testament to faith and resilience.
Imagine the year 1251. King Bela IV fulfilled a vow. He built this convent. His daughter Princess Margaret a mere nine years old resided here. She lived a life of remarkable asceticism. She wore an iron girdle hairshirts and nail-studded shoes. She embraced the humblest tasks. She rejected a marriage proposal from King Ottokar II of Bohemia. She famously wrote “I prefer the heavenly kingdom to that which has been offered me by the King of Bohemia. I would rather die than obey these commands of yours that will bring death to my soul”.
The Dominican Convent was more than just a convent. It was a significant structure. It included a large church a hospital a dormitory a refectory a kitchen and a chapter hall. A beautiful herb garden thrived nearby. It served as home to four princesses of the Arpad Dynasty. The convent operated until at least 1529 possibly even 1540. The island faced numerous battles. These battles ultimately led to the destruction of many structures including much of this magnificent convent.
The Great Flood of 1838 revealed some of the convent’s secrets. Excavations began. Yet large portions remain buried beneath the ground. Today surrounded by ancient oak trees and playful squirrels the ruins stand. They are a romantic and serene pilgrimage site. Margaret’s tomb lies within the sanctuary marked by a red marble slab. Her life a powerful testament to faith and devotion continues to resonate. The Dominican Convent on Margaret Island a place where history and holiness intertwine. It invites us to reflect on the unwavering spirit of Princess Margaret and the enduring legacy of this extraordinary place.