„Decay and Resurrection” (Notes on the History of the Great Flood of Szeged)

Abstract

The Great Flood of Szeged in 1879 was the greatest tragedy in the history of the city, and the rebuilding became the most significant event. On March 12, 1879 the water of River Tisza flooded almost the whole town fast, leaving no time for the inhabitants to save their lives and their goods. Only the oldest part of Szeged was located high enough to avoid the catastrophe. The huge destruction was immortalized by the press, by photographs, paintings, literary works. The disaster, its memories, narratives and consequences shaped considerably the cultural identity of the city. The paper deals with the local „flood legends” springing up after the events.