2009. augusztus 2., vasárnap

Hortobágy is the only vast plain area covered with grass in Central Europe. Owing to its scenic beauty, rich traditions of its pastoral life and its unique plant-and animal world, it is considered to be one of the most popular tourist centres in Hungary.

Founded in 1973, the Hortobágy National Park has won the title “World Heritage” in cultural scenery category since 1999. The largest national park of Hungary has 81.000 ha protected area. It preserves the traditional lifestyle of the “pussta”(plain), protects the ancient Hungarian domestic animal species (such as the grey cattle, the Nonius stud, the Racka sheep, the water buffalo, and the Mangalica pigs), and it serves the roosting and nesting of bird world in the region.

Through its various programmes Hortobágy KHT shows the special features of this scenery.

The 300-year old Mátai Ménes [the Stud-Farm at Máta] is one of the most significant horse breeding centres in Hungary. This stud-farm had been owned by city of Debrecen for centuries and had been organised on the special features of a scenery, which is unique among the traditional European studs. Its international fame was determined by the specie “Nonius” This hot-blood specie was bred according to the military demands of the 19th century, and this Nonius specie has been declared as “national treasure” by the Hungarian Parliament since 2004.
Apart from the above genetic preservation, the stud-farm is also involved in breeding half-bred horses for modern sports and hobby purposes.

The pussta of Máta is the touristic centre of the region, situated next to the village of Hortobágy, in the centre of Hortobágy National Park. The programmes started from the stud cover the range of equestrian touristic services which are connected to the world of pussta.