Friendship and tradition at Pentecost – memories of shared roots
The long-standing town twinning between Griesheim and the Hungarian town of Gyönk was revitalized over the Pentecost weekend. From June 7th to 9th, 2025, a delegation from the Griesheim city council, led by Mayor Geza Krebs-Wetzl, to southern Hungary. Also present was Alexander Schleith , city councilor of the science city of Darmstadt, which also maintains a partnership with Gyönk.
Hospitality and cultural encounters
Upon arrival, the guests were warmly welcomed by Gyönk's mayor, Robert Téli . A traditional wine tour through family-run cellars provided an opportunity for conversation, culinary delights, and strengthening of the partnership. On Pentecost Sunday, the program included attending the Pentecost service and the traditional cooking competition – with Krebs-Wetzl and Schleith serving as judges.
A highlight of the stay was the Pentecost festival with Danube Swabian folk dances , which showcased the cultural roots of many Gyönk residents. A special reunion: a fire engine, donated to the Gyönk fire department by Griesheim and Darmstadt in 2019 , was in operation and proved to be in excellent working order.
Visit to the German community and historical heritage
On the last day of the visit, the delegation stopped at the German community center in Gyönk . There, a plaque on the House of German Nationalities commemorates the settlement of German families over 300 years ago . This is symbolized by a relief of an "Ulmer Schachtel," a type of flat-bottomed boat many settlers once used to travel down the Danube to Hungary.
“The partnership with Gyönk is a precious treasure,” said Mayor Geza Krebs-Wetzl . “It was established 35 years ago, in a time of upheaval in Europe. We want to continue to cultivate this connection and fill it with life – for a peaceful and united Europe.”
Background: Gyönk – twin town with history
The town twinning between Griesheim and Gyönk has existed since 1990 , including the Darmstadt housing estate . Gyönk is located approximately 1,100 kilometers away in the Tolna Hills , has about 1,800 inhabitants , and is characterized by agricultural and craft-based structures .
The town boasts a high school with a German-language branch, a retirement home, cultural associations, and deep historical ties to Hesse. Many families from Gyönk have roots in Darmstadt and Griesheim , making the town twinning a particularly personal and emotional connection .
(GRIESHEIM – RED/PSG)
Featured image: Fire engine Gyönk Robert Teli, Mayor Geza Krebs-Wetzl. Photo: City of Griesheim
