January/February 2026

43 – Purebred PIGEON Birds in Budapest Article and photos by Philip Huizinga Hungary, with its vibrant capital Budapest and the historic district of Csepel (a small island), offers a fasci- nating glimpse into the heart of Central Europe – a region where tradition and modernity intertwine. Truly. From the grand architecture lining the Danube to the lively markets and quiet courtyards of Csepel, these areas pulse with stories both old and new. For pigeon enthusiasts, Budapest and Csepel are more than picturesque destinations; they are living testaments to the enduring bond between people and their birds, where local clubs and passionate breeders keep the legacy alive. My recent visit to these regions revealed not only the beauty of Hungarian culture but also the unique role pigeons play in connecting communities across generations. Hungaran pigeon fanciers, Tamás Molnár and László Varga Romain pigeon photographed in Hungary