The Germans call this city Ojfen, and some historians claim it was founded by Buda, the brother of Attila, the famous King of the Huns. According to tradition, Buda established the city during the early period of the Hunnic Empire. Over time, Ojfen became a fortified and strategically important settlement along the Danube.
During the Ottoman conquests, Sultan Suleiman captured Ojfen by surprise. He was reportedly amazed by the city’s beauty and strength when he entered it. After its capture, the city became a frequent target of Christian forces, who attempted to recapture it. However, these attempts were mostly unsuccessful, showing the difficulty of taking a well-defended town Leaving Buda and Traveling by Land.
At a short distance from Ojfen lies Old Ojfen, thought by some scholars to be Sicambria, the ancient settlement of the Sicambrian soldiers during the Roman period. Archaeologists have discovered antiquities and inscriptions in this area, which confirm its long history and importance as a military and administrative center in antiquity.
The City of Rest
Across the Danube from Buda, on the eastern shore, stands the city of Rest. The city is quadrangular in shape and is built on a flat plain, making it easy to defend. Its high walls and the towers of its mosques create an impressive and striking view when seen from Buda.
Rest gives its name to the county (or comitat) of Rest, reflecting the administrative divisions of Hungary, which are similar to counties in England. Between Rest and Buda, there is a beautiful bridge made of boats, stretching over half a mile across the Danube. This bridge facilitates travel, trade, and communication between the two cities.
Life in Ottoman Hungary Women’s Clothing
One of the most striking cultural features I noticed in Rest was the clothing of Turkish women. Their attire was entirely different from what I had seen in Europe. They wore long breeches that nearly reached the feet, covered by a kind of smock, and then a long gown over it. On their heads, they wore a head covering that extended to cover their faces entirely, leaving only the eyes visible.
At first, this dress seemed unusual and even strict. However, I found it not unpleasant, as it prevented vanity and excessive pride. While the style may appear strange to outsiders, it reflects the modesty and social customs of Ottoman women, which were highly valued in their society Turkey Customized Sightseeing.
A City of Historical and Cultural Significance
Overall, Ojfen and Rest demonstrate the rich history and strategic importance of towns along the Danube. From their ancient origins with the Huns and Romans to their Ottoman administration and cultural practices, these cities reveal the complex layering of European and Ottoman influences. They were not just military centers but also hubs of trade, religion, and daily life, bridging the worlds of East and West along one of Europe’s great rivers.
