Rákoczi’s manor-house in Borša

Almost everyone would wish for their ancestral home to be cared for even after 300 years. Imagine that this happened to perhaps the greatest rebel in our history. We don’t say rebellion guarantees a place in history, but the memory of the manor in Borša will certainly stick with you the moment you see it. This was the birthplace of Francis II Rákóczi, and his childhood home still stands in the village of Borša. He was born there in 1676, but didn’t stay long, spending most of his youth at Mukachevo Castle.

Francis II Rákóczi was indeed the most famous rebel in our history. In the early 18th century, he led the final and largest of the anti‑Habsburg noble revolts. He succeeded in rallying people from all corners of the country and across social strata (including the later outlaw Juraj Jánošík). During his campaign, he occupied all of Slovakia and Transylvania. However, he was defeated by imperial forces in a major battle near Trenčín and fled to Turkey.

This Renaissance manor in southern Zemplín is the municipality of Borša’s most significant monument. Inside, authentically furnished commemorative rooms seem plucked from another era. The exhibits showcase the life and work of Francis II Rákóczi, the history of the Rákóczi family, and the manor itself. The manor is set within a large complex featuring a bronze bust of Francis Rákóczi. There’s also a bastion tower remnant, believed to be part of an old turret. The main entrance used to have a drawbridge. Notably, many of its Renaissance windows (and doors) survive to this day.

Since Rákóczi holds such a lofty place in our history, nearby you can visit the lowest point in Slovakia – Klin nad Bodrogom. As you walk through the region’s history, you’ll see other points of interest, such as the medieval church in Klin nad Bodrogom, the Tokaj lookout tower, and the European Park Veľký Kamenec.

To step into Rákóczi’s era, turn off the main road through Borša onto Rákóczi Street – right opposite the church. Continue straight nearly to its end. After passing the junction of Zrínyi and Bodrožská streets, go a bit further and the Borša manor will be on your left. You can park right in front of it. The manor grounds are open to the public.

Address: F. Rákocziho 102/32, Borša, 076 32
Website: https://www.obecborsa.sk/-historia

Opening hours:
– March–October: Monday – closed, Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00–18:00
– November–February: Monday – closed, Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00–16:00