In a nod to popular period tv series such as Downtown Abbey, Bridgerton and The Buccaneers, we’ve been scouring the region for filming locations to set projects in a similar timeframe. What follows is the first in our series highlighting historic manor-style dwellings of Central Europe; because who doesn’t love a spot of grand-living escapism from the 18th and 19th centuries?

Hungary is home to many beautiful manor-style palaces (kastély as they are locally called). But let’s take a trip just beyond its borders for now and look at the village of Răscruci in Romania, known in Hungary as Válaszút, which was part of the broader Hungarian territory of Transylvania prior to World War One.

It’s here that we find a recently restored gem, the Bánffy country house, built in the baroque style of the 18th century by the Hungarian aristocratic Bánffy family. But this is no country shack. Baron Bánffy Ádám, the son of Baron Bánffy Albert and Eszterházy Ágnes, married Wesselényi Mária in 1870 and moved into the house that same year. It appears that the Baron was a bit of a DIY pioneer, as he himself designed and made the (still intact) wooden furniture of the dining room and a few of the tiled stoves–with the assistance of artisan helpers of the time.

Considering how history unfolded in this part of the world, however, it meant that the building fell into a state of disrepair. But thanks to EU and Cluj city council funding, the manor has undergone extensive refurbishment on not only its façade but also its interiors, which took over five years to complete.

István Vákár, the Hungarian VP of the council, described the castle as a "jewel" with its rare, intact wooden interior panelling and ceilings—a rarity in Transylvanian castles where decay often tells a different story.

The manor is located about 25 km from Cluj in Romania and is operated by the city council of Cluj, who hope to create a cultural centre within its walls.  

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources:

 https://dailynewshungary.com/photos-beautiful-hungarian-castle-renewed/

https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=195263