A new, nationally unique, inclusive development and experience centre has opened in Miskolc.

The Borsszem Jankó Storyland, created at the Baráthegy Manor, offers a safe, developmental, and joyful environment primarily for children with autism, ADHD, and other special needs.

Designed by wood sculptor Boldizsár Kő, the Storyland combines the heritage of Hungarian folk tales, contemporary art, the joy of play, and opportunities for inclusive development.

Boldizsár Kő's storylands can be found in places such as Visegrád, Kecskemét, Budapest, and Hollókő, as well as internationally in Poland, Spain, and Slovakia. Now, Miskolc has also joined this map.

The Storyland offers a carefree experience for all children, while its design and programmes place special emphasis on supporting, developing, and fostering inclusive community experiences for children with special needs.

At the heart of the Storyland is the tale of Borsszem Jankó. The journey of this smallest hero is about courage, perseverance, the power of community, and belief in oneself. These values are reflected in the various elements of the space, which encourage children to move, solve problems, collaborate, and explore independently through play.

When designing the Borsszem Jankó Storyland, it was important to create an accessible and experience-rich environment for all children. Through play and storytelling, a space was born where children with different abilities and varying support needs can find opportunities for connection and development that suit them.

László Jakubinyi, chairman of the Symbiosis Foundation, stated that the approximately 350-square-metre Storyland features seven unique play elements for visitors. Beyond the intricately carved entrance gate lies a magical world, including a dragon climbing frame, a griffin, a dancing pear tree, a carousel reminiscent of fairy-tale palaces, a story house, and a nest swing. Adjacent to the playground, a modern yurt with underfloor heating, air conditioning, and comfortable resting areas, measuring six metres in diameter, provides a peaceful retreat.

The project, valued at nearly 22 million forints, was realised through community donations and foundation funding. The facility meets the necessary TÜV certification and official playground standards.

During the creation of the Storyland, special attention was given to ensuring that the location provides a safe, joyful, and supportive environment for as many children as possible. Several play elements are accessible, and the design takes into account the specific needs of children with autism, ADHD, or hyperactivity.

The site is also suitable for guided therapeutic storytelling sessions, which is a rarity among outdoor playgrounds nationwide. During these developmental programmes, storytelling, movement, and shared experiences work together to support the development of children's skills, boost their self-confidence, and strengthen their social relationships.

The Baráthegy Manor already plays a significant role in supporting children with special needs. Patients from the Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Central Hospital regularly visit for animal-assisted therapy and other developmental sessions.

With the completion of the Storyland, this professional work is expanding with new opportunities: storytelling, play, and the nature-inspired environment can become sources of growth and positive experiences for even more children. The site will also be open to tourists and families following the final technical handover.

The official opening will take place on 3 October 2026 at the Baráthegy Manor. The programme will begin with the painting of the final fence slats, in which invited guests can participate. During the ceremony, storytelling will bring the tale of Borsszem Jankó to life, and participants will collectively place the painted slats on the fence, symbolising the collaboration that made the Storyland possible.

Finally, the gates will be opened by the children who will be the first to explore Miskolc's new, unique, inclusive fairy-tale world.