The Tűztorony, or Fire Tower, is one of the oldest buildings and most recognizable symbols of Veszprém - a 48-metre-tall tower that stands out across the whole city skyline. It's not a mountain peak, but it's a must-visit lookout point for anyone exploring the hills around Lake Balaton and wanting a bird's-eye view over the old town.

The tower's lower, cylindrical section dates back to the 13th century, once part of a medieval castle tower. Its upper section was rebuilt in a neoclassical style after a severe earthquake damaged the structure in 1810. From the tower's balcony, visitors get sweeping views over Veszprém's historic centre - particularly beautiful at sunset when the rooftops glow warm orange. In winter, the tower often rises dramatically above a blanket of morning mist over the town.

How to get there

• Veszprém city centre, Castle Hill (Vár utca) - short walk, a few minutes, easy, along the historic castle street
• Car park at the foot of Castle Hill - a brief walk uphill via stairs to reach the tower

Practical information

• Tower height: 48 metres
• The clock chimes every quarter hour, and on the hour plays a verbunkos melody composed by Veszprém-born composer Antal György Csermák
• The coat of arms of Hungary sits atop the tower

Interestingly, during the communist era the coat of arms was replaced with a red star, and the original emblem was only restored to its rightful place in 1989 - a small but telling detail from the tower's long history.