Sánci-dűlő földvár🏺 historical
The Sánci-dűlő earthwork is an ancient archaeological site located in the Vértes - Csókakő area.
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Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő
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Landmark
This region at the edge of the Vértes Mountains combines human prehistory with medieval fortress architecture. Vértesszőlős is world-famous for its Paleolithic site, where in 1965 the occipital bone of a Homo erectus named 'Samu' and fossilized footprints were discovered. The open-air museum showcases human life from approximately 350,000 years ago. Nearby, Csókakő Castle perches spectacularly on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mór trough. Built in the 13th century, the castle has undergone significant reconstruction in recent years and features a magnificent panoramic view. It served as a vital border fortress during the Ottoman era. The local gastronomy is defined by the Mór wine region, most famous for its 'Ezerjó' white wine. Vértesszőlős is easily reached via the M1 motorway, while Csókakő is accessible from Székesfehérvár. The area is popular year-round for hikers due to the well-marked forest trails in the Vértes hills.
- Location: Fejér, Hungary
- Top sights: Sánci-dűlő földvár · Csóka-hegy · Csókakő vára
- Nearby: Mór (6 km)
- Population: ~4.069 (2012)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 21 | 23 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 40 | 41 | 35 | 65 | 70 | 66 | 63 | 57 | 51 | 44 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The prehistoric site at Vértesszőlős and the ruins of Csókakő Castle are open to visitors. The excavation site is partly covered; the castle ruins are freely accessible.
Typical hours
The site is typically open from April to October, often only on weekends. The castle ruins are freely accessible year-round during daylight hours.
Photography
Photography is allowed at both sites. At the excavation, flash may be restricted to protect the artifacts.
Time needed
Allow about 2-3 hours for both sites, including the short drive between them (about 15 km).
Combine with
Combine your trip with a hike in the Vértes Hills or a visit to the castle ruins at Várgesztes.
Getting there
Accessible by car from Tatabánya (about 10 km to Vértesszőlős, then 15 km to Csókakő). No direct public transport to the sites.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy shoes, as the castle ruins are accessed over uneven terrain. A guided tour is recommended for the archaeological site.
Geography
Facts
- Homo erectus 'Samu' site
- 350,000-year-old footprints
- 13th-century Csókakő Castle
- Spectacular rocky hilltop setting
- Mór wine region (Ezerjó)
- Part of the Vértes Nature Park
- Paleolithic open-air museum
- Panoramic views from the walls
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the main attraction in Vértesszőlős?
The site of 'Samu', one of Europe's oldest prehistoric human remains.
Can the prehistoric site be visited?
Yes, there is an exhibition site of the Hungarian National Museum right at the discovery location.
What is Csókakő Castle?
A pretty castle ruin on the edge of the Vértes Mountains with a great view.
Is entry to Csókakő Castle free?
Yes, the castle ruins are currently free to visit for tourists.
How do you get to Csókakő Castle?
From the parking lot at the foot of the hill, it's a short 10-minute walk up.
Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő: where is it located?
Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő is located in Fejér, Hungary.
Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sánci-dűlő földvár, Csóka-hegy, Csókakő vára.
Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő: why is it worth visiting?
This region at the edge of the Vértes Mountains combines human prehistory with medieval fortress architecture.
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