We wish to draw attention to the fact that in recent years, numerous groups and organisations have emerged that unlawfully use the name, coat of arms, and insignia of the Order of Vitéz, and misleadingly present themselves as the official legal successor of the Order. Dear Fellow Citizens, Unfortunately, an increasing number of so-called “sham organisations” and self-proclaimed groups have appeared in recent years, which, in pursuit of financial gain or false hopes of power, are attempting to present themselves as legitimate, in a manner that is completely contrary to the original spirit and moral principles of the Order of Vitéz. It is important to know that the name "Vitézi Rend," the Order's coat of arms, insignia, and logo are legally protected, and their use is exclusively reserved for the legally continuous Order of Vitéz, its provincial chapters, or those authorised by them. The "VITÉZI REND" was registered as a legal entity with the Metropolitan Court of Budapest under registration number 4227 on 3rd February 1992. The term "VITÉZI REND" is protected by the Hungarian Patent Office under registration number 160 272. The "VITÉZI INSIGNIA" is also protected by the Hungarian Patent Office under registration number 161 696. According to the above, those who use or unlawfully appropriate the name "VITÉZI REND" or the "VITÉZI INSIGNIA" without permission, violate industrial property rights under Section 152 of Government Decree 218/1999. (XII. 28.), and can be subject to a monetary fine and imprisonment. Historical Facts Concerning Legal Continuity The Order of Vitéz was officially banned in 1944. Its members faithfully preserved the spirit of the Order even in exile; however, Governor Miklós Horthy neither granted permission nor authorised the re-establishment of the Order abroad — in fact, he expressly forbade it. Consequently, any so-called “Order of Vitéz” founded or registered abroad by private individuals — including the so-called “replica” established in Sweden — cannot be regarded as legally legitimate, even if they falsely claim affiliation with the ICOC (International Commission of Orders of Chivalry). For more detailed information on who in fact legitimately continued the Order of Vitéz, please refer to the article below. Please click on the image to read the article. The ICOC is not an official state body; rather, it is a private enterprise with no state or international legal recognition. We have previously provided a detailed account of its corrupt and deceptive activities in another article. Please click on the image to read the article. WIKIPEDIA This same group is also associated with misleading and false information being spread on the popular WIKIPEDIA platform. Wikipedia is an open-source platform, meaning that anyone can edit or modify its content. Numerous times, correct information has been restored, only for false and inaccurate data to resurface within weeks. The Wikipedia page falsified by the illegitimate group The Order of Vitéz has raised the issue with Wikipedia on several occasions and requested that the relevant page be locked, but they have distanced themselves from investigating the truth of the matter. The images below show when the information was still correctly listed on Wikipedia. When it had not yet been altered on Wikipedia Wikipedia 14th december 2024 INTERNET (Websites) Some examples from the websites of imitating, deceptive, and breakaway organisations Several organisations have appeared on the internet and in the media that unlawfully use the name or coat of arms of the Order of Vitéz. A few of these include: 1. Habsburg ICOC Vitézi Rend - www.vitezi-rend.com The hyphen ("-") in the domain name misleadingly separates the words "vitezi" and "rend." 2. Történelmi Vitézi Rend - www.vitezirend.hu The leaders are individuals who have broken away from the Order of Vitéz and are following their own path. Although their organisation is registered, they are not legally permitted to use the coat of arms or insignia of the Order of Vitéz! 3. Kárpát-medencei Vitézi Rend – www.vitezek.hu 4. Erdélyi Vitézi Rend – www.erdelyivitezirend.ro 5. Vitézi Rend (utánzat) – www.vitezirend.org The official website of the original, legally continuous Order of Vitéz has been located at www.vitezirend.com   since 1992.   The official website of the United Kingdom's provincial chapter is: www.vitezirend.co.uk FACEBOOK Unfortunately, the situation is no better on the popular social platform Facebook. Privately run groups, falsely claiming legitimacy, operate with a minimal number of members, but they are capable of deceiving those less familiar with the topic. Here are a few examples from the Facebook pages of deceptive and breakaway organisations: The official Facebook contact details of the Order of Vitéz are as follows: https://www.facebook.com/avitezirend https://www.facebook.com/ViteziRendUK Warning! Dear Fellow Citizens, Future Vitéz, We ask everyone to exercise caution and be vigilant, especially when seeking information related to applications for membership or inquiries about joining. Please do not share personal data or documents with organisations whose legitimacy is questionable! We respectfully draw attention to the fact that only the legally continuous Order of Vitéz, registered in Hungary, and its provincial chapters are authorised to use the name, coat of arms, and insignia of the Order. Only individuals appointed by the legally continuous, legitimate Order of Vitéz, who have undergone a rigorous selection process and meet the required standards, are officially recognised as Vitéz. Admission is always based on individual assessment. Any other organisation misusing the name or symbols of the Order of Vitéz is acting unlawfully and is deceiving and misleading our fellow citizens with its activities. Let us remain vigilant, well-informed, and together preserve the integrity, honour, and traditions of the Order of Vitéz! The Leadership of the Legally Continuous Order of Vitéz www.vitezirend.com www.vitezirend.co.uk ...

It is with great joy and deep emotion that we announce to all our compatriots that an authentic copy of the Holy Crown has arrived in the United Kingdom! Authentic replica of the Holy Crown in the United Kingdom This moment of historical significance does not just mean the arrival of an object – but the symbol of Hungarian national unity and national identity taking its rightful place in the diaspora community. As previously reported, the Royal Military Order of the Knights of the Cross in the United Kingdom organized a fundraiser to purchase an authentic, official replica of the Holy Crown. Although only a portion of the required amount was raised, the purchase was made possible thanks to the generous support and financial assistance of the Hungarian English Cultural Society , who provided the remaining amount in the form of a loan. The crown has since arrived safely and securely in the United Kingdom, and a few lucky attendees were able to view it at the 1956 commemoration ceremony in Manchester, where they received this sacred symbol with due respect and emotion. The Holy Crown in Manchester The replica of the Holy Crown will be displayed in various cities across the United Kingdom in the future, during national holidays and major community events. Our aim is to provide all our compatriots with the opportunity to see this national treasure, and to strengthen our sense of belonging around the world through the spirit of the Holy Crown. We would like to express our respect and gratitude to all those who have taken this noble cause to heart and actively supported our endeavor. The purchase of the crown was a serious financial commitment, and the remaining loan repayment is still ahead of us, so we continue to expect and greatly appreciate well-intentioned support. You can read the details in our previous article here: https://www.vitezirend.co.uk/post/k%C3%B6vesd-vel%C3%BCnk-a-szent-korona-%C3%BAtj%C3%A1t-k%C3%B6sz%C3%B6nj%C3%BCk-at%C3%A1mogat%C3%A1st We also recommend our introductory article on the replica of the Holy Crown, in which we present its history, the background of its creation, and its symbolism . The article can be accessed here: https://www.vitezirend.co.uk/post/holy-crown-replica The Holy Crown has always been an eternal symbol of the unity, faith and statehood of the Hungarian nation. Now that its replica has been placed in a worthy place in the United Kingdom, it forms another bridge between past and present, motherland and diaspora. May God bless us all and give us the strength to worthily serve the sacred heritage of our nation! Order of Chivalry – Royal Navy of the United Kingdom With the support of the Hungarian English Cultural Society

The 1956 Revolution and War of Independence, also known as the 1956 Uprising, was the Hungarian people's revolt against Stalinist terror and their war of liberation against Soviet occupation. It was one of the most defining events in 20th-century Hungarian history. It began on 23 October 1956 with a peaceful demonstration by university students in Budapest and ended with the crushing of the armed resistance in Csepel on 11 November. The mass demonstration in Budapest on 23 October escalated into an armed uprising later that night, following the hostile response of the Communist Party leadership and the bloody volley of gunfire against the unarmed crowd. The uprising ultimately triumphed on 30 October with the storming of the Party headquarters. This led to the collapse of the government, the withdrawal of Soviet troops, the restoration of a multi-party system, and the beginning of the country's democratic transformation. In the first days of November, the new government began negotiations with the Soviet Union for the complete withdrawal of Soviet forces, Hungary’s withdrawal from the Warsaw Pact, and the declaration of the country’s neutrality. However, after initial signs of willingness, the Soviet leadership changed its mind. Once it became clear that the Western powers would not intervene on behalf of Hungary, Soviet troops launched a full-scale, undeclared military invasion of the country in the early hours of 4 November. Hungarian army barracks and airfields were surrounded by Soviet forces. The Days of the Revolution and War of Independence 23 October   – In Budapest, students organise a demonstration in solidarity with the Polish people. The Minister of the Interior initially bans, then permits the protest. Demonstrations take place at the Petőfi statue, the Bem statue, and in front of the Parliament. In a radio broadcast, Ernő Gerő describes the events as an anti-system provocation. The first shots are fired in Debrecen, followed by gunfire in Budapest as forces deployed to guard the Radio building open fire on the crowd. Both Soviet and Hungarian military units are ordered into the capital. 24 October   – The insurgents seize the Radio building. Imre Nagy promises a broad democratisation of public life. A ban on gatherings and a curfew are introduced, along with the declaration of martial law. Soviet troops cross the border, and additional forces arrive in Budapest. Delegates sent from Moscow oversee the enforcement of Soviet decisions. Centres of resistance emerge in several parts of the capital. Demonstrations take place in numerous provincial cities, including Debrecen, Győr, Kecskemét, Miskolc, Pécs, and Székesfehérvár. 25 October   – Heavy fighting breaks out in Budapest, and demonstrations take place across the country. János Kádár replaces Ernő Gerő as the head of the Party. The strike spreads nationwide. Government forces open fire on protesters near the Parliament. Igazság , the newspaper of the revolutionary Hungarian youth, is published. In several provincial cities — including Győr — armed force is used to disperse the crowds. 26 October  – The protests spread across the entire country. An increasing number of workers’ councils and revolutionary committees are formed nationwide. Some soldiers join the uprising, while others remain neutral and do not intervene. A volley of gunfire is fired on demonstrators in Mosonmagyaróvár. 27 October  – A new government is formed under the leadership of Imre Nagy. The Minister of Defence orders continued military action against armed revolutionary groups. In several garrisons, local military commanders impose military dictatorship. In some units, revolutionary military councils are elected. Political prisoners are freed from the prison in Vác. In several provincial towns, national guards are formed from soldiers, university students, and civilians. Live ammunition is fired on protesters in Mórahalom, Kecel, and Berzence. 28 October  – In Corvin Alley, Soviet troops are repelled. The political leadership retreats and, contrary to earlier claims of a "counter-revolution," redefines the events as a national democratic movement. A ceasefire is declared, and the curfew is lifted. The core demands of the revolution are incorporated into the government program. Several dismissed leaders — Ernő Gerő, András Hegedüs, István Bata, and László Piros — flee to Moscow with their families. Hospitals are treating around 3,500 wounded. The United Nations Security Council places the Hungarian issue on its agenda. 29 October  – The disarmament of state security forces begins. A ceasefire is also ordered for the Soviet units fighting in Budapest. Radio Free Europe calls on the insurgents to reject the ceasefire. New Hungarian military units are sent to the capital to replace Soviet troops. The first shipments from the International Red Cross arrive in Budapest. In most provincial cities, order is restored and work resumes. 30 October  – The Soviet government issues a statement promising the establishment of equal relations. In Budapest, the withdrawal of Soviet troops begins. Armed groups seize the headquarters of the Budapest Party Committee after a firefight. Imre Nagy announces the end of the one-party system, and the government recognizes the newly formed local self-governing bodies. The Independent Smallholders’ Party and the Social Democratic Party are re-established. The government announces the abolition of compulsory deliveries (forced agricultural quotas). The organization of a new law enforcement body — the National Guard — begins. Political prisoners continue to be released from the country’s prisons. 31 October  – To facilitate the organization of the National Guard, the Revolutionary Committee of Public Order holds a meeting at the Kilián Barracks. The Revolutionary Defence Committee is established as the supreme body of the army, border guards, and police. Several political parties are re-established: the National Peasant Party (renamed the Petőfi Party), the Christian Democratic Party, and the Peasants’ Federation. The Hungarian team departs for the Melbourne Olympics. The Hungarian Working People’s Party is dissolved, and the Hungarian Socialist Workers’ Party is formed. Meanwhile, the Soviet leadership decides to launch a new military intervention. Soviet troops once again cross the Hungarian border. 1 November   – Soviet forces encircle Hungarian airports. Imre Nagy demands the immediate withdrawal of the newly arrived Soviet troops, announces Hungary’s withdrawal from the Warsaw Pact, and proclaims the country’s neutrality. János Kádár and Ferenc Münnich depart for Moscow. New political parties are formed, and new newspapers begin publication. The Hungarian Scout Association is re-established. In the capital, candles are lit in windows as the population commemorates the victims of the recent days. Those who died in the fighting are buried with military honours. Restoration work begins across the country. The organisation of National Guard units accelerates. 2 November   – Armed clashes cease, work resumes across the country, and reconstruction begins. A Hungarian delegation is appointed to negotiate the details of the Soviet army's withdrawal. The UN Security Council places the Hungarian issue on the agenda for 4 November and decides on the composition of the Hungarian delegation to travel to the UN General Assembly. The Writers' Union organises a fundraising campaign for the families of those killed. Food shipments arrive in Budapest from the provinces. Preparations continue for a possible renewed Soviet attack. 3 November   – The government undergoes reorganisation. In Parliament, Hungarian–Soviet negotiations begin concerning the withdrawal of Soviet troops. At its general assembly, the Committee of Public Order elects Béla Király as Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard. Soviet troops seal off the Austrian border. Cardinal József Mindszenty, recently freed from captivity, addresses the population in a radio broadcast. Members of the Hungarian negotiating delegation are arrested by Soviet state security services in Tököl, at the Soviet military headquarters in Hungary. 4 November   – At dawn, a full-scale Soviet offensive is launched against Budapest, and occupying Soviet forces attack across the country. Imre Nagy delivers a dramatic radio address, followed by an announcement of the formation of the Revolutionary Workers’ and Peasants’ Government. Imre Nagy and his family are granted asylum in the Yugoslav embassy building. The forces of the National Guard resist against overwhelming odds. István Bibó drafts a proclamation in the Parliament building and personally delivers it to several Western embassies. Faced with the superior Soviet force, the government and military leadership take all possible steps to bring armed resistance to an end. A majority of the UN Security Council members call on the Soviet Union to halt military operations and withdraw its troops. The Aftermath of 1956 7 November   – Ján os Kádár and his government arrived in Budapest to take the oath of office before István Dobi, President of the Presidential Council. In a telegram addressed to the UN Secretary-General, the new government requested the removal of the Hungarian issue from the agenda. Imre Nagy’s government was declared dismissed. 11 November   – Although a few resistance groups, such as the "Invisible Ones of the Mecsek", continued to hold out sporadically, armed fighting came to an end both in the capital and in the countryside. Soviet troops had crushed the Hungarian fight for freedom. Unarmed resistance, however, persisted for several more months. 8 December – A voll ey of gunfire is fired on demonstrators in Salgótarján. 9–11 December – Authorities use firearms against protesters in Miskolc. 11–12 December   – Authorities use firearms against protesters in Eger. 1957 11 January   – The last deadly volley fired against demonstrators takes place in Csepel, claiming fatalities. 27 May  – A Hungarian–Soviet agreement is signed on the continued stationing of Soviet troops in Hungary. 1958 16 June   – Imre Nagy and his associates are executed. 1959 3 April  – The first partial amnesty is granted. 19 60 1 April   – The second partial amnesty is introduced. 1961 26 August  – The last group of people tried for their role in the revolution is executed. 1962 20 December   – The United Nations General Assembly removes the Hungarian question from its agenda. 1963 22 March  – An amnesty is declared for political convictions related to the 1956 revolution. 1989 23 October   – The Republic of Hungary is proclaimed on the anniversary of the 1956 revolution. 1 November   – Act XXXVI of 1989 is passed “on remedying convictions related to the 1956 uprising.” 1990 31 March  – Act XXVI of 1990 is passed “On the annulment of unlawful convictions handed down between 1945 and 1963.” 8 May   – Act XXVIII of 1990 is passed, officially recognising the historical significance of the 1956 October Revolution and War of Independence. 1992 9 March  – Act XI of 1992 is passed “On the annulment of convictions for certain crimes against the state and public order committed between 1963 and 1989.” 2000 20 December  – Act CXXX of 2000 is passed “On declaring the nullity of convictions related to the reprisals following the 1956 Revolution and War of Independence.” Facing overwhelming odds and abandoned by the outside world, the heroic revolution of a small nation ultimately failed after several days of fighting. According to declassified statistics released in 1993, 2,652 Hungarians and 720 Soviet citizens were killed in the fighting. As a consequence of the revolution, approximately 176,000 – and by some estimates up to 200,000 – Hungarians fled the country, the vast majority heading towards Austria. (Some of the refugees later returned.) "Honour to the heroes!" Sources Consulted Horváth Miklós (szerk.): Remény és pokol 1956. Zrínyi Kiadó, Budapest, 2016. / Horváth Miklós – Tulipán Éva: Keresztutak. Magyar Néphadsereg 1956. H&T, Budapest, 2006. / Romsics Ignác (főszerk.): Magyarország története. Akadémiai Kiadó, Budapest, 2007. / Király Tibor et al.: Büntetőeljárási jog. Osiris Kiadó, Budapest, 2003. / Kronológia, 1956.mti.hu. MTI, Budapest, 2006. / Történelmi kronológia, oktober23.kormany.hu. [n.n.], 2013. / Az 1956-os magyar forradalom kronológiája (1953 március - 1963 március). w3.osaarchivum.org [n.n; d.n.]. / Wikipedia

On 4 September 1993, in Kenderes, Admiral Miklós Horthy, former Regent of the Kingdom of Hungary, his wife Magdolna Purgli of Jószáshely, and their younger son, József Miklós Horthy, are reburied. 4 September 1993 – The reburial of Regent Miklós Horthy of Nagybánya in Kenderes On 4 September 1993, in Kenderes, Regent Miklós Horthy of Nagybánya, whose earthly remains arrived from Portugal, was reburied in the family chapel. Alongside him, his wife, Magdolna Purgli, and the urn containing the ashes of their son, József Miklós Horthy, who passed away earlier that year, were also laid to rest. The coffins were placed under a canopy in the Kenderes cemetery, where the ceremony took place on Saturday. The reburial, in accordance with Horthy’s last will to be laid to rest in Hungarian soil, was initiated by the Hungarian Seamen’s Association. Over fifty thousand people arrived in Kenderes for the memorial service. A total of 56 members of the Horthy family attended the ceremony. The service was attended by many prominent figures from Hungary's public life. General Kálmán Kéri, in the name of his increasingly fewer fellow officers, spoke at the ceremony, representing those with whom he had once sworn allegiance to the Regent. Bishop Lóránt Hegedűs, the clerical president of the Synod of the Reformed Church in Hungary, also delivered a commemorative speech. Countess Ilona Edelsheim-Gyulai, wife of the late Horthy István, Deputy Regent, expressed gratitude at the coffin for all those who made the reburial possible and honoured the memory of the deceased. József Miklós Horthy, the son of Horthy István, recalled the memory of his grandfather in front of the coffin. 4 September 1993 – The Reburial of Regent Miklós Horthy of Nagybánya in Kenderes (Full Documentary Film) The ecumenical church service was led by Elemér Kocsis, Bishop of the Transdanubian Reformed Church District, Pál Szalai, pastor of Kenderes, and István Seregély, Archbishop of Eger and President of the Hungarian Catholic Bishops' Conference. In the crypt, sailors bid farewell to their former commander-in-chief. As the final act of the reburial, wreaths were placed in the chapel – a wreath was sent to Kenderes by Prime Minister József Antall – and the congregation sang the national anthem in tribute. In the park of the former Horthy Castle in Kenderes, a bronze bust of Horthy in military uniform was unveiled. May our Regent rest in peace!

On 29 August 1944, Horthy formed a new government in order to prepare Hungary’s exit from the war. The Sztójay cabinet was replaced by a new government led by Géza Lakatos. vitéz nemes csíkszentsimoni Lakatos Géza But who was Géza Lakatos? Géza Lakatos graduated from the Ludovica Military Academy in 1910, where he was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He served with the 1st Budapest Honvéd Infantry Regiment, and later with the infantry regiment in Linz. In 1914, he was admitted to the War Academy in Vienna, which was dissolved upon the outbreak of the First World War. He was then deployed to the Russian front, and from December 1915 to November 1916, he served as a general staff officer in a brigade of the joint Austro-Hungarian army. Between 1917 and 1918, he fought on the Italian front. During the time of the Hungarian Soviet Republic, in May 1919, he served at the Gödöllő headquarters of the Red Army, before joining Miklós Horthy’s “National Army.” After completing the War Academy in 1921, he taught tactics and military organisation at the Ludovica Academy. From 1923, he worked in the intelligence and reconnaissance division of the General Staff. In 1925, he was granted the title of vitéz  (a Hungarian order of merit), and from 1928 he served as military attaché at the Hungarian embassy in Prague. In 1934, he became a regimental commander, in 1935 Chief of the General Staff, then a general in 1939, a lieutenant general in 1941, and in 1943, a full general. Horthy intended to appoint him as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, but the position was never formally established. After the fall of the pro-German Sztójay government, on 29 August 1944, Horthy appointed Géza Lakatos as Prime Minister, secretly entrusting him with preparing Hungary’s withdrawal from the war and negotiating an armistice. His government dismissed the state secretaries responsible for the deportations and removed far-right politicians, although some German agents were also included in the cabinet. These agents were fully informed of Hungary’s planned exit from the war. In early October 1944, the Germans declared that Hitler wanted Ferenc Szálasi to become Hungary’s new Prime Minister. After the failed attempt to exit the war on 15 October, Lakatos was taken prisoner by the Germans. On 2 January 1945, he was arrested and imprisoned in Sopronkőhida. He was released on 28 January but placed under internment in Sopron. After the Soviet occupation, in April 1945, he was taken to Kiskőrös, where he was subjected to repeated interrogations. He was released in January 1946 and later appeared as a witness in several people’s tribunal cases. In 1949, he was stripped of his pension and had his land confiscated. As a result, he was forced to move to Budapest, where he supported his family by illustrating books and painting silk scarves. The grave of Geza Lakatos (Photo by Jim Nelson) In 1965, with the permission of the Hungarian authorities, he was allowed to travel to Australia to join his daughter, who had been living there since 1957. He died two years later, in 1967. (writer: v.Ba benyecz Attila)

20 August – one of our most ancient and most profound celebrations. It is not only the commemoration of the birth of the Hungarian state, but also a tribute to the life’s work of a man of great stature – King Saint Stephen. A ruler who not only received a crown, but also forged a nation. Each year, on this day, we pause: with bread in hand, beneath the flag, in the light of fireworks, or to the sound of church bells. Yet perhaps we seldom ask ourselves: what is it, in truth, that we are celebrating? And who, in truth, was King Saint Stephen? Statue of Saint Stephen in the Buda Castle Let us now move beyond the trappings and delve deeper – guided by little-known yet fascinating details that bring us closer to Stephen’s true legacy, and perhaps, to ourselves as well. The Beginnings: From Vajk to Stephen Saint Stephen’s birth name was Vajk – an ancient name, probably of Turkic origin, which may have meant “leader” or “hero.” In the spirit of “Christian rebirth,” he adopted the name “Stephen” ( Stephenus ), in reference to the first Christian martyr. The Baptism of Vajk (painting by Gyula Benczúr) 2. The exact date of his coronation remains uncertain – either 25 December 1000 or 1 January 1001. In both cases, the symbolism is significant: Christmas marking the birth of the Saviour, and New Year symbolising a new beginning. 3. The crown may not, in fact, have been sent by the Pope – although tradition holds that it was the crown of Pope Sylvester II sent from Rome, it is more likely that it arrived through the mediation of Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. This was a masterstroke of diplomacy on Stephen’s part, balancing between East and West, Pope and Emperor. 4. The crown we now revere as the Holy Crown is in fact much later – consisting of two separate parts (Greek and Latin elements), it attained its present form around the 12th century. Therefore, Stephen almost certainly never wore this crown. Statue of Saint Stephen Blood and Law – The Birth of the State 5. The founding of the state was not without bloodshed – the quartering of Koppány, the defeat of Gyula, the crushing of Ajtony: these were all internal conflicts that served to consolidate Stephen’s power. The new order could only be realised through the destruction of the old. 6. Koppány’s dismembered body was sent to the four corners of the realm – Veszprém, Győr, Transylvania, and Esztergom each received a part. Unthinkable to us today, this was then a political message: the order of the Christian state extended to all. He sent Koppány’s dismembered body to the four corners of the kingdom. 7.The division of the country into counties was Stephen’s invention – the county system, which lasted for over 900 years, originated under his rule. It was one of the earliest examples of modern administration in Europe. 8.The first law codes – Stephen created two codices that laid down the foundations of the Christian order: the prohibition of work on Sundays, the obligation to build churches, the payment of tithes, and the ban on pagan customs. Saint Stephen’s Codex King, Saint, Legacy-Builder 9.His wife, Giselle of Bavaria, played a key role – not only as queen but as a true co-founder of the state. She founded monasteries, brought in missionary priests, and according to legend, personally embroidered a chasuble for the Church. 10.The work known as the “Instructions” is unique in European literature – written to his son, Prince Imre, it contains teachings still relevant today: “A country with one language and one custom is weak and fragile.” Early Christian humanism, tolerance, and wisdom. 11.The tragic death of Prince Imre – a hunting accident ended the heir’s life. At this point, Stephen, having exhausted all human means, dedicated his country to the Virgin Mary. This act has since been preserved by the Hungarian people as the nation’s spiritual root. 12.In 1083, Stephen was canonised – when his tomb was opened, his right hand was found intact, which has since been known as the “Holy Right” and remains one of our most treasured relics. The hand was kept hidden for centuries before being returned to Hungary. Saint Stephen’s Right Hand – “The Holy Right” 13. The Holy Right has had a long and adventurous journey – during the Turkish occupation, it was kept by the Dominican friars in Ragusa, and later was repurchased by the Habsburgs. Today, it is displayed in St Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest. 14. The date of his canonisation – 20 August – was not always a public holiday. For centuries, commemorations took place on other days; it was only in the 18th century that 20 August became fixed as the date, though in 1949 the communist regime attempted to reframe it as the “Festival of New Bread.” 15. The St Stephen’s Day procession is an old tradition – spectacular religious parades were held on this day as early as the Middle Ages. Although banned in the 20th century, it is now once again celebrated annually in Budapest. 16. After Stephen’s death, the country remained unstable for 70 years – pagan uprisings, disputes over the throne, and interventions from German and Byzantine powers: the founding of the state did not end the turbulent century, but only provided a framework for it. Saint Stephen’s tomb among the ruins of the Basilica of the Virgin Mary Why Saint Stephen’s Legacy Matters Today Saint Stephen’s decision—to lead his people onto the path of Christianity, the rule of law, and European integration—was not merely a historical act but a choice of values. Today, as the world drifts once again without clear values, and the spiritual foundations of Europe seem to waver, it is especially important to revisit and reinterpret his message. We still see how: - Christian communities worldwide face persecution, - Christian values are mocked or disregarded, - The concepts of family, faith, and nation are under attack, - Our identity is questioned and threatened with dissolution in a rootless world. In this historic moment, it is vital to return to Saint Stephen’s legacy: loyalty, faith, and responsibility. Not only to preserve what he left us but to make it a living reality in our daily decisions, communal life, and national identity. 20 August is not just a celebration of the past—it is a pledge to the future. Saint Stephen calls on us today: let us be worthy of our past and responsible for our future! Long live Hungary!

Our mother tongue is among the most unique of all living languages in the world — and this is not our own assertion, but the unanimous conclusion of the greatest linguists. A few years ago, the Sorbonne University in France conducted research to determine which language had preserved the largest proportion of elements from ancient culture — that is, the original root words, or etymons. The result was quite surprising: modern English contains 4% etymons, Latin 5%, Hebrew 5%, the Pacific languages 7%, the Indian Mundakhol 9%, Tibetan Sanskrit 12%, Proto-Turkic and Turkmen 26%, while modern Hungarian contains an astonishing 68% ancient etymons. The study clearly proved that the Hungarian language preserves more primordial roots than any other language in the world. The Hungarian language on the tree of languages Why is the Hungarian language unique? It is a fact that the Hungarian language differs from all other spoken languages. Of course, every language is unique in its own way, yet there is one feature that sets Hungarian apart — and this lies in its writing and mode of expression. Most Hungarian words are written exactly as they are pronounced. This, in itself, would not be particularly remarkable; what makes it truly exceptional is, on the one hand, the astonishing harmony and coherence of speech, and on the other, the clarity of its expressive power. According to neuroscientists, the Hungarian language has preserved much of the ancient art of visual thinking: the evolution of our words and our metaphorical use of language bear witness to this. Visual thinking is, in many respects, more nuanced and greatly enhances comprehension. There are thousands of living languages in the world. But what does our language mean to us? It is the most important pillar of our existence — a solid foundation that carries our humanity, our family, our people, and our culture; everything that makes us Hungarian. The Hungarian language serves as the ferryman of the nation, navigating the realms of past, present, and future. Today, around 14 to 15 million people speak our language across the globe. In terms of the number of speakers worldwide, Hungarian ranks 12th. According to data from the 1990s, it was taught in 78 universities across 23 countries. The Hungarian language is a fertile ground for profound discoveries in depth psychology — a mirror of the workings of the human soul. Szerelem  (love), védelem  (protection), kegyelem  (grace), félelem  (fear), gyötrelem  (torment), vonzalom  (affection), szorgalom  (diligence), fájdalom  (pain), and vigalom  (merriment): the more than eighty Hungarian words ending in “-elem” and “-alom” perfectly reflect the richness of what lies within us. language family tree In the foreword to his volume of poetry Poetry of Magyar, the English linguist and man of letters, Sir John Bowring, wrote: "The Hungarian language stands far above, alone. It has developed in an entirely distinctive manner, and the formation of its structure reaches back to times when most European languages did not yet exist. It is a language that has evolved independently, consistently, and firmly, imbued with logic — indeed with mathematics and strength — and endowed with all the flexibility and adaptability of sound. This language is the oldest and most splendid monument of national independence and intellectual self-reliance." The famous English writer Bernard Shaw stated: "I can boldly declare that, having studied the Hungarian language for years, I have become convinced that, had Hungarian been my mother tongue, my life’s work could have been far more valuable. Simply because in this peculiar, ancient, and vigorous language, one can describe the tiniest nuances and the secret stirrings of emotion with far greater precision." The poet Ferenc Juhász professed: "The Hungarian language is my existence, my future, and my hope." In Hungarian, this is a grammatically correct sentence. Sándor Lénárd, a writer who lived and wrote in South America in Hungarian, said: "The Hungarian language is like a musical instrument — whoever wishes to play it must practise every day." "The Hungarian language was born from the singing of pagan women. It was the Wonder Stag who shook from its antlers the jewels of the forest, the red berries, so that they might become beautiful words." These warm and beautiful words were written by Gyula Krúdy. Let us be proud of our Hungarian mother tongue! (Source: internet)

On the occasion that, hopefully in the near future, Hungarians living in the United Kingdom will also be able to take pride in a certified replica of the Hungarian Holy Crown, crafted with exceptional precision and detail, here are a few fascinating facts that may still be unfamiliar to some A magyar Szent Korona You can read more about our announcement by clicking on the link below: https://www.vitezirend.co.uk/en/hireink/felhivas---szent-korona-az-egyesult-kiralysagban Did you know that...? 1. It Had an Investiture Role The Holy Crown was used exclusively for the official consecration of Hungarian monarchs. It was not worn during everyday affairs, nor on private or family occasions. Its use was strictly limited to the coronation ceremony itself. The Hungarian Holy Crown 2. It Consists of Two Distinct Parts The Crown is composed of a lower (Greek-origin) and an upper (Latin-style) section. The lower part is formed by an ornate circlet, while the upper part consists of gold bands adorned with rows of gemstones. The cross on the top was most likely added only in the 16th century. The Holy Crown originally consisted of two parts 3. A Prerequisite for Lawful Reign According to tradition and historical law, only those crowned with the Holy Crown in Székesfehérvár by the Archbishop of Esztergom were regarded as lawful kings of Hungary. However, Saint Stephen himself was neither crowned in that location nor with the Crown as we know it today. Over time, the site of coronations changed—due to the Ottoman occupation, ceremonies were later held in Pressburg (now Bratislava), Sopron, and eventually Buda. The last coronation took place in Budapest in 1916. Charles IV on the Coronation Mound, 1916 4. Queens Also Took Part in the Ceremony Queens were also "crowned", but the crown was not placed on their heads. Instead, it was touched to their right shoulder, symbolising their role alongside the king in the governance of the state. The Iron Chest Made in 1608 by Matthias II for the Coronation Regalia, at the National Museum 5. It Was Taken Abroad Multiple Times Throughout its history, the Holy Crown was taken out of the country at least eleven times, most frequently to Vienna. The longest period it spent abroad was over three decades, between 1572 and 1608. The Journey of the Holy Crown, 1438–1440 The Journey of the Holy Crown from Transylvania to Vienna, 1551 The Transport of the Holy Crown to Vienna, 1784 6. Public Display in Sopron In 1622, Stanislaus Thurzó, the Palatine, surprisingly presented the Crown to the public in Sopron: after opening the crown chest, he raised the artefact in the window of the town hall for the people to see. The document, likely issued in Vienna after 9 December 1681, reports on the Holy Crown’s fourth stay in Sopron and the coronation of Queen Eleonore Magdalene Therese of the Palatinate-Neuburg. (Source: National Széchényi Library) 7. The History of the Tilted Cross Although many believe the cross on the Crown has always been tilted, the earliest depictions show it as straight. It was likely damaged in 1638, during the hurried preparations for a coronation, when the case holding the Crown had to be forced open due to the absence of the proper key. 8. Buried After the Surrender at Világos In 1849, following the defeat of the Hungarian Revolution, Bertalan Szemere hid the Crown and the coronation regalia underground near Orsova to prevent them falling into Austrian hands. They were discovered in 1853. The Crown survived the time intact, but the sword had become heavily rusted. The Hungarian Holy Crown Chapel in Orsova (the hiding place of 1849), 1901 9. Evacuation During the Second World War In 1945, at the end of the war, the precious relic was evacuated to Austria, where it was concealed inside a petrol barrel. It was discovered by the American army and kept for several years at the Fort Knox military base in Kentucky. The honour guard of the Hungarian People’s Army paid tribute not to Foreign Minister Vance, but to the Holy Crown. 10. Return from America In January 1978, the United States returned the Holy Crown to Hungary. At the ceremonial handover, it was not the Party leader but the Speaker of the National Assembly who received it. The condition was that the Crown must not fall into the hands of any other country—such as the Soviet Union. Among the American delegation was Albert Szent-Györgyi, who returned to Hungary briefly at the same time. Cyrus Vance, U.S. Secretary of State (left), President Carter’s personal representative, hands over the Crown to Antal Apró, Speaker of the National Assembly, in the Dome Hall of the Parliament, 1978 The Hungarian Holy Crown is the only existing "Holy" crown in the world... the crown of peace, the crown of love and the Nation.

Fourteen years ago today, a historic moment took place when the Captain General of the Order of Vitéz, vitéz Count János Molnár-Gazsó, made an effort to ease the long-standing disputes within the Order and to unite the Order of Vitéz. Following this significant event, he issued the following appeal to the members of the Order. Hungarian Television News Bulletin Dear Honourable Ladies and Gentlemen, As you may have already learned from the press or from the following link, on 29 July 2011 we were finally able to show the world that the Order of Vitéz is united! Unfortunately, there are still some Vitéz organisations that have not yet returned, even though the door remains open. We welcome with great joy and respect the return of our members from other Vitéz groups to the united Order. Those who return will face no reprisals whatsoever; indeed, everyone may retain their Vitéz rank and position! Dear Honourable Ladies and Gentlemen, For centuries, we have suffered under the oppression of foreign powers. Let us be honest: this was possible because our divisions served the interests of foreign anti-Hungarian forces. The division of our nation persists to this day. Hungary is currently enduring exceptionally difficult times. Those of us who think in terms of nationhood must set an example and build unity. I do not believe in the Turanian curse, but I do believe in the resurrection of Hungary. In this nation-building effort, the Order of Vitéz has an important role to play. The current state of the Order of Vitéz in Hungary is unworthy of the last wishes of our founder, vitéz Miklós Horthy of Nagybánya. The Regent established the Order of Vitéz with the intention that it should be a Christian, national force representing the interests of the Hungarian Nation. Unfortunately, the divisions so characteristic of our country have also affected the Order. Every member of the Order deeply regrets this unfortunate division, and I believe every Vitéz desires its end. I am convinced that a united Order of Vitéz would benefit the nation. Therefore, great responsibility rests upon the leaders of the various branches of the Order. To restore and coordinate the unity of the Order, the Ministry of Defence has offered its assistance. On 19 April 2011, the Ministry convened a meeting with the leaders of the various groups. At this meeting, the Ministry expressed its regret over the division within the Order and offered their support towards restoring unity. Groups Participating in the Conference: Order of Vitéz (Legally registered and operating in Hungary under the leadership of vitéz János Molnár-Gazsó) Historical Order of Vitéz Association (Led by vitéz László Hunyadi) Order of Vitéz Carpathian Basin Governorship (Led by vitéz László Vad) Order of Vitéz I.C.O.C. (A chivalric order privately registered in Sweden) The official position was expressed that it is desirable for the unity of the Order to be restored within six months, thereby serving the interests of the Hungarian Nation. During the second part of the meeting, the leaders of each group were given the opportunity to present their ideas regarding the restoration of unity. Representatives of the Ministry of Defence and the leaders of the branches of the Order of Vitéz issued statements affirming that negotiations would continue. In the days following the meeting, I was contacted by the leader of the Carpathian Basin Governorship of the Order of Vitéz. As a result of discussions with Mr. vitéz László Vad, the Order of Vitéz and the Carpathian Basin Province of the Order will merge. The document formalising this will be signed in July 2011. Following recent negotiations, the Horthy Miklós Vitézi Rend Foundation — led by vitéz József László Ajtós, vitéz Ervin Sándor, and Dr. vitéz Tamás Erdős — will join the Order of Vitéz. I warmly welcome all vitézs who have recognised that the division within the Order serves foreign interests and who, understanding this, continue their vitéz duties as members of the unified Order of Vitéz. The Order of Vitéz sincerely welcomes all vitézs with Hungarian friendship. To further the cause of unity, I participated in discussions with Mr. vitéz József Árpád Habsburg. Unfortunately, they maintained a rigid position, stating that only those whom he or his predecessor have personally knighted can be considered vitézs. They do not recognise other branches of the Order and believe that all groups have the opportunity to return to their fold. Dear Vitézs,Having regard to the last will of our founder, I have respectfully declined your offer. The Order of Vitéz operating in Hungary is a military order. We serve our homeland here at home, protecting Hungarian interests, in accordance with the last will of our founder, vitéz Miklós Horthy of Nagybánya. We stand by the proposal made during negotiations and hope that we may unite for the sake of the Order’s unity. I have taken part in several discussions with Mr. vitéz László Hunyadi, the leader of the Historical Order of Vitéz Association. We have agreed that division does not serve the interests of the Order or our Nation. I believe we must continue negotiations in the hope of unification. We have agreed that the chief stewards of the Order of Vitéz and the Historical Order of Vitéz Association will jointly work on a unified admissions policy. Where circumstances permit, we will appear together at commemorations. In the coming times, we will encourage our members to participate in joint events. I believe that in every vitéz group, regardless of who knighted them, there are honourable Hungarian people. I sincerely hope that disputes unworthy of vitézs will come to an end! I call upon every vitéz living in Hungary and abroad to strive for the unity of the Order of Vitéz, considering the fate of their homeland. Let them put aside real or perceived grievances. The existence of our Nation and our beloved Order is at stake. Let us learn from the mistakes of the past! I firmly believe that it is not by the whims of history that Hungarians, including vitézs, still live. God has a plan for the Hungarians and for us, the vitézs! God bless Hungary and the Order of Vitéz! vitéz János Molnár-GazsóChief Captain [signed]

Splits and mergers in the Order of Chivalry   The founder of the Order of Valor is Miklós Horthy of Nagybánya, who was also the first leader of the organization as captain-general.   According to the official position of the Order of Valor, Horthy developed the idea that Hungary needed an organization that would bring together the best of the front-line fighters of World War I, during his time as Minister of War in Szeged, during the counter-revolutionary government of Károlyi.   Horthy finally had the opportunity to establish the organization only after his election as governor on March 1, 1920, but his ambitious idea was already widely known. The legal basis for the foundation was established by Decree No. 6,650/1920. ME, which was confirmed by Act XXXVI of 1920.   The organization operated in Hungary until the last year of World War II, 1945. On February 23, 1945, the Provisional National Government dissolved the Order of Valor under Soviet pressure.   After this, the National Vitéz Chair Liquidation Committee was established, which began its operation under the leadership of Major General Pál Pongrácz.   This organization was tasked with preparing for and then liquidating the Order of Valor. Finally, Act IV of 1947 put an end to the legal basis for the operation of the Order of Valor, which was adopted in 1948.   After World War II, many knights, including Miklós Horthy, found a new home in Western emigration, but the reorganization of the Order of Knights did not begin for years.   The first reorganisation process can be linked to Ferenc Farkas of Vitéz Kisbarnak in the early 1950s, but Horthy stopped these and forbade the reorganisation of the Vitézi Order in emigration. He only permitted meetings of comrades from Vitéz.   In 1956, Horthy appointed the valiant Hugo Sónyi as deputy chief captain, but no other steps were taken.   As a result, there was no possibility of a concrete form of life in Vitéz. After Horthy's death in 1957, the desire for reorganization revived, led by Ferenc Farkas and Emil Justhy Vitéz. At the end of the process, the Order of Knights was re-established in Regensburg in 1960, with the valiant Archduke Joseph of Habsburg-Lorraine elected as its Grand Captain.   Therefore, the activity of the Order of the Knights in emigration can be counted from 1960.   Archduke Joseph did not enjoy his position as Grand Captain for long, as he died in 1962. He was succeeded as Grand Captain by Ferenc Farkas, who resigned in 1977 due to his age (he died in 1980). Following his resignation, the See of the Knights elected Archduke Joseph's grandson, Árpád József of Habsburg-Lorraine, as Grand Captain. As a result of this election, Árpád József was the last Grand Captain of the emigration chapter of the Knights of the Order.   Hungary gradually liberated itself from Soviet occupation thanks to the 1989 regime change.   As a result, the Order of the Knights also began to grope around in the hope of repatriation.   One of the main moments of the repatriation process took place on August 19, 1991, when President Árpád Göncz received the delegation of the Order of Valor and held several hours of discussions with them.   A Vitézi Rend delegációja 1991 At this meeting, the conditions for the repatriation of the Order of Valor were laid down. Within six months of the meeting, the Metropolitan Court registered the Order of Valor with order number 6.Pk.68.060 /01, serial number 4227, dated February 3, 1992.   After moving home in 1993, Árpád József assumed the rank of Grand Master and made the valiant Antal Radnóczy his chief captain.   After moving home, tensions gradually increased, which were already palpable during the years of emigration:   · One of the main reasons for this was the National Defense Section established in 1982, which was intended to ensure a significant increase in the number of members of the Order. One of the significant consequences of this was that, in addition to worthy individuals, extremist elements also entered the ranks of the Order, who later began to disrupt the ranks of the Order of Valor. · The other significant reason is that as a result of the knighthood initiations that took place in the 90s, a knighthood of over 2000 people was formed in Hungary, while only 200-300 people lived in emigration, despite this, the vast majority of the Knighthood Chair was made up of people living in the West, which led to a high degree of power. Among the people living in the West, Antal Radnóczy is worth highlighting, who, in his position as captain-in-chief, tried to keep his own people in power and undermine the work of the Hungarian officers. Tensions continued to rise until 1997.   This year, Radnóczy commissioned some of his confidants to form a new organization in Hungary called the "Order of Knights of Valor", thus bypassing the Hungarian leaders and placing his own people in a leadership role within the framework of a kind of coup.   As a result, a joint meeting was held, at which Radóczy's dismissal was announced and the brave István Tabódy became the captain-general of the Order of Valor.   Upon hearing the news of Radnóczy's dismissal, 40-50 of his followers followed the "dethroned" captain, and Árpád József voluntarily stood up from the leadership position and went with Radnóczy (Árpád József was not stripped of his Grand Mastership at the meeting, he left the Order of Knighthood on his own accord).   This led to the first schism in 1997 and the creation of a "Vitézi guild" alongside the legally continuous Order of Knights, with Árpád József as Grand Master and Radnóczy as Captain General.   In the years following the split, the two organizations existed in parallel, but they were constantly negotiating reunification.   In 2000, the position of Grand Captain of the Order of the Knights was taken over from Tabódy by Dr. András Várhelyi. In 2003, Dr. Miklós Bercsényi took over the position of Grand Captain from Várhelyi, who considered his main task to be to advance the unification negotiations.   In 2003, the merger almost took place, but there was a change in the leadership of the separated individuals, as Árpád József resigned from the position of Grand Master (the organization subsequently abolished the position), and Antal Radnóczy passed away, so a "self-appointed captain-general" in the person of the valiant László Hunyadi was appointed to the leadership position, who interrupted the negotiations.   Thus, the rift remained permanent and an organization called the Association of the Historical Order of Knights was established. (The website of this illegitimate association is: www.vitezirend.hu)   In 2003, Árpád József changed his mind, withdrew his resignation and wanted to return to power, but Hunyadi did not allow this, so Árpád József established the Order of Valor ICOC, of which he became the leader, and after his death in 2017, his son, Károly József, became the leader. (the website of this illegitimate society wrote with a hyphen: www.vitezi-rend.com ) Thus, from 2003, in addition to the legally continuous Order of Valor, there were already two "segmented" associations.   In 2004, Miklós Bercsényi resigned from the position of chief captain due to his age and András Várhelyi was re-elected as chief captain. Várhelyi would hold the position of chief captain until 2011, when he resigned due to his health.   During this time, 2 new organizations split off from the Order of Knights ICOC.   In 2007, the Horthy Miklós Order of Valor Foundation, headed by Sándor Ervin and Ajtós József, was established. In 2008, the Carpathian Basin Governorate of the Order of Valor was established under the leadership of Vad László.   In 2011, the position of Grand Captain of the Order of Valor was taken over by Count János Molnár-Gazsó, who is still the head of the Order of Valor in its current form. The Order of Valor currently has two official websites: From Hungary 1992: www.vitezirend.com and the website of the headquarters in the United Kingdom: www.vitezirend.co.uk   The new captain-general immediately began to heal the rifts. The Association of the Historical Order of the Knights and the Order of the Knights ICOC did not want to merge. However, the Miklós Horthy Order of the Knights Foundation and the Order of the Knights Carpathian Basin Governorate sat down to negotiate, as a result of which both organizations merged into the legally continuous Order of the Knights in 2011.   Breakups and mergers table: https://www.vitezirend.co.uk/szakadasok-es-egyesulesek?lightbox=dataItem-m3kpclwt   Unfortunately, due to human weakness, in 2012 a small group left the Order of the Knights and created another illegitimate splinter association called the Order of the Knights of the Carpathian Basin Association. Their website can be found at: (www.vitezek.hu)   The new organization's leader was Ferenc Zetényi Csukás, who held the position until 2015. Zetényi-Csukás was replaced by Aurél Rihmer, who was the organization's leader between 2015 and 2023, a leadership role that has been vacant since 2023.   Based on what has been described, it is clear that there is only one Order of the Knights with legal continuity and legal operation, which is the captain-general of the knightly count János Molnár-Gazsó. All other organizations only imitate its primacy.   “The Order of Valor has a threefold purpose: to reward patriotic virtue combined with valor, to preserve the best of the great times and to ensure the survival of the lineage of heroes, and finally to provide the Hungarian race with a power in them and their descendants that will strike down with terrifying force all subversive anti-state and anti-national aspirations. I plant the Order of Valor in the blood-soaked Hungarian soil; God grant that it may take root there as soon as possible. May it become a mighty oak forest that can defy the storms of the second millennium; may the Order of Valor be the pride of our Turanian race and our homeland, but also, if necessary, its sharp-cutting sword.” (Miklós Horthy of Nagybánya, 20 August 1921)

Is there a connection or relationship between the two orders? The relationship between the Order of the Knights and the Order of the Dragon is not just a simple historical curiosity, but an element that forms the solid foundations of Hungarian culture and identity. This relationship has a rich heritage that deeply reflects the past and future goals of both orders. The aim of our article is to present in detail the relationship between these two orders and to examine the effects that are still felt today. Sárkány Rend The origin and significance of the Order of Vitez: The Order of Vitez was founded by Miklós Horthy in 1920 with the aim of preserving Hungarian traditions. The members of the order included prominent military and social leaders who represented the values of valor and patriotism. By the 1940s, it had more than 10,000 members who actively participated in public life and organized numerous cultural events. The Order of Valor lives on in Hungarian public life today, continuing to cultivate traditions and values. Background of the Order of the Dragon: The history of the Order of the Dragon dates back to the Middle Ages, first mentioned in 1408. The members of the order, the knights, enjoyed special respect, as they fought in defense of the Christian faith. The symbol of the Order of the Dragon, the dragon, symbolized not only knightly courage, but also heroic combat. At the peak of the order's popularity, in the 15th century, it had several thousand members, who actively participated in the campaigns of the time. The relationship between the two orders: A close relationship developed between the Order of Valor and the Order of the Dragon, as both were founded in the spirit of heroism and patriotism. Many believe that Miklós Horthy was greatly influenced by the ideology of the Order of the Dragon, which is strongly reflected in the values represented by the Order of Valor he founded. Cultural influences: The Order of the Knights and the Order of the Dragon had a significant impact on Hungarian culture, especially on folk art and literature. Artists such as Zsigmond Móricz and Endre Ady drew inspiration from the heroic mythology of these orders. In addition, the values represented by the orders, such as courage and self-sacrifice, are still defining for Hungarian society today. State celebrations, such as the state foundation day on August 20, also often evoke the traditions of these orders. Current role and significance: Despite the political changes of the 20th century, the role of the Order of the Knights and the Order of the Dragon can still be observed actively today. The Order of the Knights, for example, organizes more than 30 cultural events annually, which are attended by thousands of participants. The Order of the Dragon, which combines traditions with the challenges of the modern world, is also an important participant in Hungarian cultural life. These traditions provide a common heritage and identity that connects the past and the present. The Hungarian Order of the Dragon is currently registered with the Budapest Metropolitan Court under the name “The Imperial and Royal Dragon Court and Order – Ordo Draconum, Sárkány Rend, 1408.” Dr. v. lemhényi baron Andrew Zsigmond, the retired Grand Master of the Order, resides in the United Kingdom. The current Grand Master is Dr Sir Massimo Tumietto of San Marino. Summary: The connection between the Order of the Knights and the Order of the Dragon is deeply rooted in Hungarian history. These orders not only preserve the memory of the heroes of the past, but also convey important messages for the present and future generations. Maintaining preserved traditions and shared values plays a key role in enriching the Hungarian identity. The relationship between the Order of the Knights and the Order of the Dragon shows that the experiences of the past not only shape the present, but also give direction to the future. In the coming years, it is worth following the events of the orders, so that these traditions can live on despite the challenges of the modern world. Sárkány Rend 1408

Vitéz Initiative for Historical Remembrance A unique and globally unprecedented interactive map is now available on the official website vitezirend.co.uk , showcasing Hungarian memorial sites across the United Kingdom. This initiative not only fills a long-standing gap but also represents a milestone in preserving Hungarian historical heritage abroad. The idea and execution of the map are credited to vitéz Sergeant Róbert Balázs , who worked tirelessly for months to ensure that every site of historical or national significance to Hungarians in the UK—military graves, memorial plaques, statues, churches, and community landmarks—is presented in a dignified and accessible manner. This noble undertaking would not have been possible without the support and encouragement of vitéz Captain Attila Babenyecz , who guided and supported the project from behind the scenes throughout its development. Creating such a map is not only a technical challenge but a solemn mission—to preserve the dignity of remembrance and pass it on to future generations. Why is this map important? This interactive map is the first of its kind to comprehensively organise and display locations where Hungarian history and presence connect with British soil. Many of these memorial sites have long remained scattered and little-known. Now, they are made accessible to all via a user-friendly Google Maps interface—complete with images, descriptions, and exact coordinates. Key Features of the Map The world’s first Hungarian memorial map focused specifically on the United Kingdom A community-building tool that may inspire pilgrimages, commemorations, and educational visits Continuously expandable with the active participation of the Hungarian community Using the Map Interface The map is built on the familiar Google Maps platform, allowing users to plan their routes instantly by clicking on icons. This familiar icon opens the map in full-screen mode, displaying all memorial locations at once for easy navigation. By clicking the share  icon, the map can be shared directly via Facebook, Twitter, email, or embedded on websites using the provided code. The list icon , resembling a small door, offers quick access to the directory of available memorial sites. From here, users can instantly select and view more details about any specific location. The camera/map control tool  provides additional navigation functions, including refined map movement and zoom (in and out) for enhanced exploration. What information does the map provide? The name of the memorial site Its exact address The date of inauguration Names of key participants at the ceremony The inscription on the memorial The creator or commissioning party Contextual data related to the site A short description of the inauguration event One or two photographs of the site High Interest and Positive Feedback The map has quickly gained popularity among the British Hungarian diaspora and those with an interest in national heritage. Numerous responses confirm the importance of this summarised collection—preserving the memory of our past while building a bridge to future generations. A Call to the Community The work is not yet finished. We invite everyone: if you are aware of any Hungarian-related memorial sites in the UK not yet listed on the map, please share them with us! Together, let us preserve the values of the past—and shape a shared future. 🔗 Explore the map here : https://www.vitezirend.co.uk/magyar-emlekhelyek-angliaban