Introduction

The ceremonial hall of our library is a memorial in Kalocsa to Archbishop ÁdÁm Patachich (1776-1784). It is a outstanding feature of this archiepiscopal seat as well as the whole region of Hungary’s Southern Planes, visited by some 15-thousand interested tourists per year. The library room, which has eight windows and is 23 metres long, was built in 1780 in the Italian Baroque style. Along the walls are ranged 3-metre high, adjustable shelf units made of decoratively carved oak. The length of the shelves adds up to 632 metres on which 19,000 volumes can be found. The top of the units is decorated by 12 grisaille wooden panels made by Franz Anton Maulbertsch. These depict the facial images of great thinkers of ancient times, the Middle Ages and of the modern world (e.g. Homeros, Aristotle, St Augustine, Newton). In the middle of the room there are three large columns and six writing/work desks. Ranged on the tables are more than 400 books bound in gilded leather. On the binding of the books in uniform covers Venczel Werner, bookbinder librarian, worked over ten years. As a result of his work, the gilded volumes ensure today the glittering aspect of the room. In the window alcoves are the reading desks. From the room a door leads direct to the living quarters of Archbishop Patachich. It is quite likely that this door was often used by the book-loving archbishop when he stayed at Kalocsa. Information on the practical aspect of a visit to the room is available on our page: Useful information, how we can be reached.