The Department of Archaeology focuses on the archaeological research of the Carpathian Basin during the Migration and Conquest periods (4th-11th centuries AD). One of its central topics is the origins of the Hungarians, approached from an international perspective. Early Hungarian history is not only a domestic issue but also a significant question in Eastern European scientific circles. The increasing interest in this field, both in Hungary and internationally, highlights its importance to Hungarian scholarship.
In the last 15 years, research in this area has seen considerable growth, largely due to new archaeological discoveries. Since the establishment of the Department of Archaeology at the Hungarian Archaeological University of Budapest in 2012, research into Hungarian prehistory and occupation has been a priority. In 2017, the subject became a distinct department within the Institute of Archaeology, marking a significant development in Hungarian archaeology.
The Department offers BA, MA, and PhD courses in these subjects, available in both Hungarian and English. The prehistory programme is multidisciplinary, combining linguistic, historical, and bioarchaeological perspectives, with additional foreign language training available (such as Russian, upon request).
The Department has established research and training collaborations with 15 international scientific partners, particularly in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Moldova. A key domestic partner is the Hungarian Prehistory Theme Group of the Centre for Humanities Research, with which the department has conducted joint excavations and organized conferences.
Among the major archaeological topics of the Migration Period, the study of the Hunkor and the excavation of the Zamárdi-Rétiföldek site, one of the richest Avar period sites in the Carpathian Basin, are central. Modern methods and intensive field research continue to be applied to both previously excavated and newly discovered sites, especially in the Danube-Tisza area. The department actively involves its students in these research projects, contributing to their academic growth and professional development. Notable achievements include successful participation in national and international competitions, research scholarships, and the completion of several PhD dissertations.
Head of Department
Attila Türk
Associate Professor
Secretariat
Danubianum 607
Education Coordinator: Zsuzsanna Kovács
Tel.: +3613275930 /4170
E-mail:
kovacs.zsuzsanna@btk.ppke.hu
regeszet@btk.ppke.hu
Postal address:
1088 Budapest
Mikszáth Kálmán tér 1.
