Perched in City Park sits a hooded figure. This is the Vasmunkás Statue. Have you ever wondered about this mysterious figure known as Anonymous?
The Vasmunkás Statue represents the chronicler Anonymous. He lived in the 13th century. His true identity remains unknown to this day. It is believed he served as a notary to King Béla III of Hungary. Anonymous composed the chronicle “Gesta Hungarorum”. This translates to “Deeds of the Hungarians”.
Imagine yourself transported back to the 13th century. Anonymous toiled away diligently. He recorded the early history of Hungary. The Vasmunkás Statue captures this essence. The statue depicts a hooded figure. The figure is deep in thought. It holds a pen in its left hand.
The “Gesta Hungarorum” is a significant work. It narrates the background. It tells of the conquest. It speaks of the aftermath of the Hungarian arrival in the Carpathian Basin. The chronicle relies on heroic folk songs. It uses myths and ballads. It also uses written sources both ancient and medieval. Some claims are outlandish. For instance, it states Hungarians fought the Romans.
The author is vague about his identity. He calls himself “P who is called magister”. He was a notary of the most glorious Béla King of Hungary. Scholars believe it was written under the reign of King Béla III. Anonymous wrote it because no such work existed. He loved good stories. Truth didn’t matter to him. His blend of fact and tale has stood the test of time.
The Vasmunkás Statue has become popular. It soars with Hungarian nationalism. In 1896 Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Josef donated funds. These funds were for sculpting ten statues. They were to be placed in public areas around Budapest. Miklos Legeti completed the Vasmunkás Statue in 1903.
The Vasmunkás Statue of Anonymous is a masterpiece. Ironically both men have not been forgotten. The statue’s pen is often rubbed by visiting writers. They seek inspiration. They hope for good luck. It proves the power of myth is timeless.