• Astronomical Museum and Camera Obscura

    August 1 in Hungary ⋅ ☀️ 35 °C

    Next today is a visit to the Astronomical Museum and Camera Obscura. One of Eger's most unusual attractions, housed in the historic Lyceum building, of the Eszterházy Károly Catholic University.
    Originally constructed in the 18th century by Bishop Károly Eszterházy with the intention of becoming a university, the building historically served various other educational roles before officially achieving full university status. Today, it functions as the central hub of the university's campus.

    The museum displays 18th-century astronomical instruments, antique telescopes, sundials, and interactive science exhibits that explain astronomy and optics.
    It also houses the Archbishop's library and a playhouse for children where there are presentations about robots, engines and electric circuits, everything can be dismantled and rebuilt!

    The highlight is the Camera Obscura, installed in 1779 by astronomer Miksa Hell. It remains one of the world's oldest working camera obscuras, projecting a live image of Eger onto a white table using only mirrors and lenses. An old legend in Eger says that jealous men in the past could control their wives walking in the town. So it was not worth breaking faith any time and anywhere, especially in Eger...
    After climbing the tower, 44 meters above street level, visitors are also rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views over the city from the rooftop terrace.
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