Islam in Hungary is a small but historically significant minority religion with roots going back several centuries.
History of Islam in Hungary
Medieval Period:
- Islam first arrived in Hungary during the 9th–10th centuries via Muslim traders, likely of Khwarezmian, Volga Bulgar, or Arab origin, who settled in the Carpathian Basin.
- Some Hungarian tribes also encountered Islam during their migration across Eurasia.
- After the Magyars (Hungarians) settled, these early Muslim communities gradually assimilated or disappeared as Hungary became Christian.
Ottoman Period (16th–17th centuries):
- A major Islamic influence returned when the Ottoman Empire ruled parts of Hungary (1541–1699).
- During this time, mosques, baths (hamams), and minarets were built, especially in southern Hungary (e.g., Pécs, Eger, Buda).
- After the Habsburgs pushed out the Ottomans, most Muslims left, converted, or were expelled.
Modern Islamic Presence:
Population:
Today, Hungary’s Muslim population is estimated at around 5,000 to 10,000 people (less than 0.1% of the total population).
The community includes:
- Immigrants from the Middle East (mainly Syria, Iraq, Egypt).
- Students from Muslim-majority countries.
- A small number of Hungarian converts.
Mosques & Prayer Facilities:
Hungary does not have large mosques with minarets; instead, it has Islamic centers and prayer rooms.
Notable centers include:
- The Budapest Mosque (run by the Hungarian Islamic Community).
- The Organization of Muslims in Hungary also runs prayer spaces and educational facilities.
Community Life:
- Islamic centers offer Friday prayers (Jumu‘ah), Qur’an classes, and cultural activities.
- Halal food is available, mostly in Budapest and some university towns.
Challenges & Social Context:
Hungarian society is largely secular or Christian, with low religious diversity.
- There have been occasional public debates about Islam, especially during the 2015 European migration crisis, which affected perceptions of Muslims.
- Despite this, Hungary’s Muslims generally live peacefully and without major conflict, though they remain a very small minority.
Summary:
Islam in Hungary has deep historical roots—from medieval Muslim traders to Ottoman rule—but today is a small, peaceful community centered mostly in Budapest. While religious freedom is protected by law, the Muslim population remains tiny and low-profile compared to Western European countries.
Hungary
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .hu
Country Code: +36