Szigetszentmrton

Szigetszentmárton is a nearly 750-year-old settlement located in the heart of Csepel Island, Pest County, Hungary. It is known for its picturesque and colorful character. The village has a rich history, with archaeological evidence showing human habitation dating back thousands of years, including a world-famous 4,000-year-old "ancient car" now housed in the National Museum. The settlement’s name first appeared in written records in 1285 under King IV László, and it was also marked on Deák Lázár's map in 1528. Historically, it served as a market town during the Middle Ages. Following the Turkish occupation, the village was repopulated with Swabian settlers by Jenő Savoyai after the Turks were expelled, and later Bavarian settlers arrived under Mária Terézia. Significant events include a devastating fire in 2006 that destroyed two-thirds of the village, leading to more orderly streets and plots. The public school was established in 1855, with a kindergarten added in 1888. Various civil organizations, such as the Volunteer Firefighters Association (founded in 1898), Farmers' Circle (1909), and German National Music Association, reflect the community's active cultural life. By the 1941 census, the village had 1,069 inhabitants, with a majority identifying as German-speaking (843) compared to Hungarian speakers (226). Post-World War II resettlement brought Hungarians from the Great Plains and Slovakia. As of January 1, 2010, the population was 2,199. The settlement has modern infrastructure, including 100% piped drinking water, 80% wired gas, and 70% telephone coverage. Approximately 85% of roads are dust-free, with sewer network construction prioritized. Cultural developments include ...