Nation “Blooms” on the European Stage with Double Silver Win

Nyíregyháza downtown

Nyíregyháza (eastern Hungary) and Varsány (northern Hungary) have both earned silver ratings at the 50th edition of the Entente Florale Europe (EFE) competition — a prestigious European contest recognizing excellence in urban and rural beautification. The award ceremony took place over the weekend in Velenje, Slovenia, announced Visit Hungary tourism agency on Monday.

This year’s event drew around 400 participants from 13 European countries. Representing Hungary, Nyíregyháza and Varsány both impressed the international jury with their commitment to sustainability, public spaces, and local heritage.

In addition to its silver rating, Nyíregyháza received the World Urban Parks – EFE Green Space Award,  honoring cities that maintain and develop green spaces at a high standard.

The jury highlighted the city’s pedestrian-friendly urban core, including Kossuth Square, Heroes’ Square, Bessenyei Square, and Benczúr Square, as a model for reducing inner-city traffic and promoting shaded, flower-filled public areas. According to Visit Hungary’s statement, Nyíregyháza’s downtown green axis sets a benchmark for sustainable city planning in Europe.

In Varsány’s case, the jury praised the village for seamlessly integrating Palóc regional cultural traditions with modern sustainability practices. Particular attention was given to the Tábi Lake’s ecotourism potential, as judges noted could be a key driver for future development in the region.

Both settlements earned the right to represent Hungary internationally after winning top honors in the “Flowering Hungary” national competition in previous years.

This landmark 50th edition of the Entente Florale Europe holds special significance for Hungary, which currently chairs the international organization. Under Hungary’s leadership, France and Italy rejoined as full members, marking a diplomatic success. The Hungarian presidency has also helped pave the way for new Mediterranean and Baltic member states, while Romania has become a regular participant in the competition.

The presidency has spearheaded efforts to modernize the competition’s evaluation criteria, aligning them more closely with 21st-century priorities such as sustainability and urban development.

As Visit Hungary states, the strong showing by Hungarian towns and the evolving scope of the competition demonstrate that Entente Florale Europe remains a vibrant and forward-looking initiative. Hungary and its municipalities continue to represent excellence in sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and European-level green space planning.

Via MTI; Featured image: Facebook/Virágos Magyarország

The post Nation “Blooms” on the European Stage with Double Silver Win appeared first on Hungary Today.

Source link