Szejkefürdő Mineral Water Museum

The waters of Szeklerland have various mineralogical profiles: alongside the acidic, carbonated Sarolta Spring, there are also springs with rheumatological and dermatological benefits, as well as peat mud mofettas. The region's mountain streams, springs, and mofettas remain active natural resources to this day – a true treasure discovered and popularised by Balázs Orbán (1829–1890) in the 19th century. Its water was transported in urban jugs on carts, with the buffalo-drawn mineral water cart becoming an iconic symbol.

The Szejkefürdő Mineral Water Museum was built using unique architectural solutions and natural materials. The building blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape: its wooden, porch-fronted, two-storey structure reflects the characteristics of Szekler folk architecture. The exhibition space, with a floor area of approximately 270 square metres, is spacious yet welcoming, offering a human-scale environment that is both modern and traditional.

The museum's interiors are bright and clearly organised. The ground floor primarily showcases the natural history, geology, and medicinal aspects of mineral waters, while the upper floor displays ethnographic and bathing culture-related objects, documents, and photographs connected to mineral water. One of the museum's most striking features is the buffalo-drawn mineral water cart displayed in the courtyard, which was once loaded with jugs and sent off from nearby villages to deliver mineral water to towns.

As part of the exhibition, visitors can also view the Sarolta Spring, which is still active today. The spring's water can be tasted on-site, allowing visitors to directly experience the unique taste and distinctive smell of the mineral water. The spring's surroundings have been carefully landscaped, with small walking paths, benches, and informational boards enhancing the experience. The museum's courtyard also serves as an outdoor extension of the exhibition space, from where visitors can explore the row of Szekler gates in Szejke and the grave of Balázs Orbán.

Visitors' convenience is supported by a multilingual information system. Exhibition texts are available in Hungarian, Romanian, and English, accompanied by clean and sophisticated graphic designs. Modern museum education tools – such as interactive maps and digital displays – ensure that the visit is enjoyable for all age groups. The museum is an ideal destination for families, school groups, tourists interested in local history, and anyone drawn to a deeper understanding of Szekler mineral water culture.

The exhibition space is open from 1 May to 30 September, weekdays during the day and weekends in the morning. A visit typically lasts around 45–60 minutes, though many enjoy lingering longer around the spring or nearby walking trails. During certain times of the year, such as the Szejkefürdő May Day celebrations, the museum offers free programmes, craft workshops, and guided tours for visitors.

• Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Experience in one place: showcasing the characteristics, uses, and historical background of mineral waters

• A Meeting of Health and Cultural Tourism: a holistic experience awaits visitors through the springs and museum

• A Nature-Connected Experience: through the water springs, mini forest, Szekler gates, and nostalgic exhibitions, visitors gain insight into the geological, ethnographic, and literary world of Szeklerland