Kék-tó

“A shimmering, almost otherworldly blue,” a young boy whispered, pointing towards Kék-tó. “Why is it called ‘Blue Lake’ when it’s green?” We stand before Kék-tó, a seemingly ordinary pond nestled in Kelenvölgy. Kék-tó’s story stretches back to the early 20th century. The Pulay family’s brick factory, operating in the 1930s, sourced clay from nearby mines. Kék-tó is a surviving remnant of these excavations, a flooded quarry filled with groundwater and rainwater. The lake’s peculiar name, despite its usual green hue, has two possible explanations. The first suggests that the water, after mining ceased, appeared blue due to its clarity. The second explanation links the blue tint to fish hibernation. During winter, fish rest at the bottom, slowing down organic processes and giving the water a clearer, bluer appearance. Kék-tó’s ecosystem thrives under the care of the Kelenvölgyi Kék-tó HITEKA Horgász Egyesület, a fishing association. The lake supports carp, catfish, crucian carp, grass carp, and pike. Interestingly, only carp are intentionally introduced; other species arrive accidentally or via bird droppings. Kék-tó requires regular replenishment. Its annual evaporation loss of two to three thousand cubic meters necessitates bi-annual stocking. Despite its small circumference of just 250 meters, Kék-tó plays a vital role in the local community. Schoolchildren from Fogócska Street visit for environmental lessons. The adjacent playground, renovated in 2016 by Újbuda’s local government, further enhances Kék-tó’s allure. A walking path around the lake allows visitors to fully appreciate its serene beauty. Kék-tó is more than just a pretty sight. It’s a testament to Kelenvölgy’s industrial past and a vibrant hub for community activities.