The History of the Cholnoky Family
The Cholnoky family played an extremely important role in the cultural history of the rise of the middle classes in Veszprém and the Balaton Uplands. Therefore, we feel it is a duty of utmost importance to present the high level of artistic and scientific activity of this family’s members in the broadest possible range of genres.
The work of well-known members of the Cholnoky family - writers Viktor and László, medical doctors Ferenc Sr. and Ferenc Jr. and geographer Jenő - is closely linked to the city of Veszprém and its surroundings. The commemorative project started start on 23 July 2021, the 151st anniversary of Jenő Cholnoky's birth. It aims to present the Cholnoky heritage in as many ways as possible so that locals and visitors alike can learn why Veszprém has a school, a hospital, a residential area and many other regional memorials that bear the Cholnoky name.
Since we want the Cholnoky name to be a strong element of identity for the Veszprémers, it is also essential to present their adventurous private lives along with the artistic and scientific activities of the family members. And since that is an aim without regard to age or generation, we will, in addition to classic tools, use innovative solutions and the possibilities offered by popular culture in the project.
Several local institutions and NGOs are involved in implementing the project elements. The Laczkó Dezső Museum, for example, has organised a travelling exhibition entitled “The Results of the Scientific Study of Lake Balaton” on the work of geographer Jenő Cholnoky. At the same time, the House of Arts will publish a series of volumes, edited by János Géczi, of writings by members of the Cholnoky family.
The Cholnoky Street Art Project, which will cover the walls of some city buildings, can also provide new perspectives and exciting and spectacular interpretations.
As a result of the work of Olivér Rybár of the Veszprém County Heritage Association, a book rich in information and images of the history of the Cholnoky family will be published. The text may serve as a basis for an interactive family history exhibition. Local history and virtual capacity building may be developed under the auspices of the Eötvös Károly County Library.
The final element of the complex project will be the premiere of the play "The Cholnoky Code" in 2023, a collaboration between the Pannon Castle Theatre and the writer and playwright Zoltán Egressy.
Implemented by: House of Arts Veszprém, Pannon Castle Theatre, Veszprém Megyei Honismereti Egyesület (Veszprém County Heritage Association), Laczkó Dezső Museum
Date: 2021-2023
Location: Veszprém
