Szejkefürdő Mineral Water Museum

The waters of Székely Land have diverse mineral compositions: alongside the acidic, carbonated Sarolta Spring, there are also mofettas with therapeutic effects for rheumatism and dermatological conditions, as well as peat mud baths. In this region, mountain streams, springs, and mofettas remain natural resources – a true treasure discovered and popularised by Balázs Orbán (1829–1890) in the 19th century. The water was transported in urban jugs on carts, with the iconic buffalo-drawn mineral water cart becoming a symbol.

The Mineral Water Museum in Szejkefürdő was built using unique architectural solutions and natural materials. The building blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape: its wooden, porch-fronted, two-storey structure reflects the characteristics of Székely folk architecture. The exhibition space, with its approximately 270 square metres, is spacious yet welcoming and human-scale, combining modernity with tradition.

The museum's interiors are bright and clearly organised. The ground floor primarily showcases the natural, geological, and medicinal aspects of mineral waters, while the upper floor displays ethnographic and bathing culture-related objects, documents, and photographs connected to mineral water. One of the museum's most striking features is the buffalo-drawn mineral water cart displayed in the courtyard, which was once loaded with jugs and sent off from local villages to deliver mineral water to towns.

The exhibition also includes the Sarolta Spring, which is still active today. Visitors can taste the spring water on-site, gaining a direct experience of its unique flavour and distinctive aroma. The spring's surroundings have been carefully arranged, with small walking paths, benches, and informational boards enhancing the experience. The museum's courtyard also serves as an outdoor extension of the exhibition, from which visitors can explore the Székely gate row in Szejke and visit Balázs Orbán's memorial tomb.

Visitors are supported by a multilingual information system. Exhibition texts are available in Hungarian, Romanian, and English, accompanied by clean and sophisticated graphic designs. Modern museum education tools – such as interactive maps and digital displays – ensure an enjoyable visit for all age groups. The museum is an ideal destination for families, school groups, tourists interested in local history, and anyone drawn to a deeper understanding of Székely mineral water culture.

The museum is open from 1 May to 30 September, on weekdays during the day and on weekend mornings. A visit typically lasts around 45–60 minutes, though many enjoy lingering longer around the spring or on nearby walking paths. During certain times of the year, such as the Szejkefürdő May Day celebrations, the museum offers free programmes, craft workshops, and guided tours for visitors.

Why Visit?

• Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Experience in one place: showcasing the characteristics, uses, and historical background of mineral waters

• A Fusion of Health and Cultural Tourism: a holistic experience awaits visitors through the springs and museum

• A Nature-Connected Experience: through the water springs, mini forest, Székely gates, and nostalgic exhibitions, visitors can delve into the geological, ethnographic, and literary world of Székely Land

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