What if these walls could talk? They would tell tales of generations educated within the Első Óbudai Általános Iskola. This school stands as one of Budapest’s oldest elementary institutions.
Let’s delve into its history. The Első Óbudai Általános Iskola is located in Budapest’s District III. It sits at the corner of Vörösvári Road and Körte Street. The school’s red-brick building contrasts against Óbuda’s residential houses and modern buildings. It was built in the early 20th century. It proudly claims its place among the district’s oldest educational establishments.
Conflicting dates appear on seals from the 19th century. However 1869 marks the year on the first registry books. That year is considered its founding. Initially known as Óbudai Városi Iskola it began with three grades. This was during the 1869/1870 school year.
The original barrack-style building was replaced. A new two-story school building was completed by 1902. This allowed for an increase in classrooms and students. From 1903/1904 it consistently operated five then six grades. There were separate classes for boys and girls. The Vörösvári Road building housed boys while girls attended classes on Hunor Street.
World War II brought devastation. A bomb struck the school. The second floor was destroyed and no classroom remained untouched. Restoration efforts allowed the school to reopen. Continuous education resumed in late August 1946. Twelve classrooms accommodated seventeen classes and three daycare groups.
In 1948 mandatory eight-grade education led to increased enrollment. This necessitated expansion. By 1958 a third floor was added. It housed four classrooms and a physics lecture hall. The headmaster’s residence was converted. A kitchen and dining room replaced it. A doctor’s office was also created for the students. The increased classroom space allowed for more after-school programs. This provided comprehensive care with specialized education.
In 1958 the school adopted the name Czabán Samu. It operated under this name until 1995. From 1960 to 1967 the school also offered high school classes. In 1979 German was introduced. It was the first second foreign language option besides Russian. Later English was added. National education was introduced in 1995.
The original barrack was replaced in 1902. The new two-story building was expanded in 1958 with a third floor. The Első Óbudai Általános Iskola comprises three sections. These are the main building the gymnasium and a smaller building. It also features four courtyards. There is a stone courtyard a rubber courtyard a small courtyard and an artificial turf yard.
Every year on November 11 students parade with handmade lanterns along Vörösvári Road. This tradition commemorates Saint Martin. The lanterns symbolize the goodness.
Today the Első Óbudai Általános Iskola continues its mission. It provides education to students in grades one through eight. It stands as a testament to Óbuda’s commitment to education. The school is accessible via public transport. You can reach it by traveling to the Óbudai rendelőintézet stop.