Velem


Velem is a village in Vas county, Hungary. The village is situated on the slopes of Kőszeg Mountains, at the westernmost tip of the county and the region known as Alpokalja. Velem is notable for its picturesque environment and healthy climate.

History

Velem was first mentioned in records in 1279. One of the notable archaeological sights of Central Europe can be found on St. Vid Hill above the village. The church on the top of the hill can be seen from several kilometers away. Owing to the excellent climatic conditions, Velem has become a well-known resort and holiday centre with full infrastructure. In the village there is a House of Crafts preserving the tradition of local folk arts.
YearCastle or lordship where it be longedSquireEventAntecedentHungarian King
1279Saint Vid CastleKőszegi, MiklósSharing on estateDeath of Henrik Kőszegi in 1274IV. László
after 1291Lordship of RohoncDestruction of Saint Vid CastleIII. András
1374Lordship of RohoncRohonci family I. Lajos
1404Lordship of RohoncGarai familyGrantLászló Nápolyi's performance and expulsion from the country in 1402-1403Zsigmond
1445I. Frigyes German emperor occupied Kőszeg and RohoncGerman OccupationHungarian defeat against the Turks in the Battle of Varna in 1444V. László
1477Lordship of RohoncPesnitzer, UlrikKing Matthias's Austrian campaignHabsburg-Jagello Alliance against Hungarian King. I. Mátyás
1490Lordship of RohoncPaunkister familyGrant
from 1527Lordship of RohoncBatthyány familyGrantI. Ferdinand -

At the end of World War II the Szálasi Government was based in a prominent Velem mansion called the Stirling Villa. The Holy Crown of Hungary was preserved and safeguarded there between 29 December 1944 and 19 March 1945.
Today the Stirling Villa is a venue for seminars and conferences while the House of Crafts next door hosts workshops where traditional and almost forgotten crafts can be learnt from experienced craftsmen. Preserving traditions is an organic part of this village where wooden barns stand among houses mainly built of stone and vernacular wine presses with cellars dotted along the Pákó Stream.
There is a still operational water mill situated near the village. The starting point of the national 'blue' tourist route is in Velem. The village is situated on the grounds of Írottkő Nature Park with a bicycle route crossing the village. The most frequently visited local event is the Chestnut Feast in October every year.

Notable residents

, a major Hungarian actress.
Gyula Maár, a noted film director and husband of Mari Törőcsik.