The House of Unicum: Exploring the History of Hungary’s Iconic Liqueur

Located on the banks of the Danube in Budapest, the House of Unicum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history and production of one of Hungary’s most famous exports – Unicum liqueur. This museum, housed in the historic Zwack distillery, showcases the fascinating story of the Zwack family and their legendary herbal digestif that has become a national symbol.

History of Unicum

Unicum is a distinctive Hungarian herbal liqueur that has been produced by the Zwack family for over 230 years. Known for its unique round bottle and secret blend of more than 40 herbs and spices, Unicum has become one of Hungary’s most famous and beloved national drinks.

Origins and Legend

According to legend, the recipe for Unicum was first created in 1790 by Doctor Zwack, royal physician to the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Joseph II. The story goes that when the doctor gave the emperor a sip of the herbal concoction to cure his indigestion, Joseph II exclaimed “Dr. Zwack, das ist ein Unicum!” meaning “This is unique!” – thus giving the liqueur its name.

However, historical records do not support the existence of a Doctor Zwack at the imperial court during that time. The true origins of Unicum can be traced back to József Zwack, who founded the company in 1840 in Pest (part of present-day Budapest). In 1883, József Zwack officially registered the Unicum name, bottle shape, and label design featuring a red cross on a white background.

Growth and Challenges

By the early 1900s, the Zwack company had become one of the largest distilleries in Central Europe, producing over 200 liqueurs and spirits. Unicum’s popularity soared with the introduction of now-iconic advertising like the 1909 “Water Carrier” poster.

The company faced major setbacks during the 20th century, with the distillery being badly damaged in World War II and then nationalized without compensation by the communist government in 1948. The Zwack family fled Hungary, with János Zwack taking the secret Unicum recipe to Italy, while Béla Zwack stayed behind and gave the state a fake recipe.

Return and Revival

After the fall of communism, Péter Zwack, representing the fifth generation of the family, returned to Hungary in 1988. He repurchased the distillery and began producing Unicum again using the original secret family recipe in 1989.

Today, Unicum is exported to over 45 countries worldwide. The company is once again family-owned and operated, with Sándor Zwack serving as Chairman of the Board and Izabella Zwack as a board member, representing the sixth generation.

The Zwack Family

The Zwack family has been synonymous with the iconic Hungarian herbal liqueur, Unicum, for over two centuries. This article delves into the rich history and legacy of the Zwack family, whose story is intertwined with the creation and success of one of Hungary’s most beloved national drinks.

The Zwack Company’s Founding

In 1840, Jozsef Zwack officially founded the Zwack company in Budapest. By 1892, the company had grown significantly and moved to its current headquarters along the Danube River. The Zwack family’s business flourished, and their products, particularly Unicum, gained popularity throughout the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The company even earned the prestigious title of Imperial and Royal Court Supplier.

Challenges and Resilience

The Zwack family faced numerous challenges throughout the 20th century. During World War II, their factory in Budapest suffered severe damage from bombings and was later burned by retreating German forces. In 1948, the communist regime nationalized the company without compensation, forcing the family to flee the country.

Despite these setbacks, the Zwacks persevered. Janos Zwack, who had escaped to the United States with the original Unicum recipe, began producing the liqueur in Italy. Meanwhile, his brother Bela, who remained in Hungary, provided the communist government with a false recipe to protect the family’s secret.

The Return and Revival

In 1988, following the fall of communism in Hungary, Peter Zwack, a fifth-generation family member, returned to Budapest. He repurchased the distillery with the help of his business partner, Emil Underberg, and reestablished the Zwack company. The true Unicum recipe was once again being produced in its homeland.

The Family Today

Today, the sixth generation of the Zwack family – siblings Sándor and Izabella Zwack – are at the helm of the company. They serve as global brand ambassadors, traveling extensively to promote Unicum and establish the brand in new markets worldwide. Unicum is now exported to over 45 countries across 4 continents.

The story of the Zwack family and their iconic Unicum liqueur is one of tradition, perseverance, and Hungarian pride. Through centuries of challenges and triumphs, the Zwacks have maintained their commitment to quality and their dedication to preserving a unique piece of Hungarian culture. For those interested in discovering more about this fascinating family and their legendary liqueur, a visit to the Zwack Unicum Heritage Centre is an essential experience when exploring Budapest.

Provided Services

Visitors to the House of Unicum are treated to an immersive, multi-sensory experience that brings the story of Unicum to life. The tour begins with a short film about the Zwack family history, followed by a guided walk through the old distillery – the “Heart of Unicum” – where the production process and ingredients are explained.

In the Unicum cellar, guests can sample the original Unicum and Unicum Plum liqueurs straight from oak casks, while the premium tour also includes tastings of the exclusive Unicum Riserva and Unicum Barista varieties. The museum itself features a collection of photographs, old posters, bottles, machinery, and personal memorabilia dating back over 200 years, chronicling not just the story of Unicum but also the turbulent history of Hungary.

One highlight is the gallery displaying over 17,000 miniature bottles. Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace with an audio guide available in multiple languages or by scanning QR codes for additional content. Interactive elements like a selfie station add a modern touch to the experience.

Admission

Opening Hours

The House of Unicum is open from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The museum shop operates from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. It’s always a good idea to check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm the opening hours, as they may be subject to change during special events or holidays.

Guided Tours and Tickets

To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to book a guided tour in advance. The standard tour, which lasts approximately 1 hour, includes a short film about the Zwack family history, a guided visit to the old distillery known as the “Heart of Unicum,” a tasting session in the Unicum cellar, and a self-guided exploration of the museum and its 17,000-piece miniature bottle collection.

For a more exclusive experience, opt for the premium tour, which lasts around 1.5 hours and includes additional tastings of the exclusive Unicum Riserva and Unicum Barista.

House Rules

The House of Unicum in Budapest is a popular museum and visitor center dedicated to Hungary’s iconic herbal liqueur, Unicum. Produced by the Zwack family since 1790, Unicum has a rich history intertwined with that of Hungary itself. When visiting the House of Unicum, foreign tourists should be aware of the following house rules to ensure a pleasant and informative experience:

• Age Restrictions: While children and teens under 18 are welcome to visit the museum, only those aged 18 and above can participate in the Unicum tastings. Children under 12 can enter for free, while those aged 12-18 require a student ticket.
• Photography: Visitors are permitted to take photos inside the visitor center. However, please be respectful of other guests and do not disrupt guided tours or tastings.
• Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the House of Unicum. Designated smoking areas are located outside the building on Dandár Street and on the terrace.
• Cloakroom: A cloakroom is available for visitors to store their belongings. However, the House of Unicum staff cannot be held liable for any loss or damage to items left in the cloakroom.
• Accessibility: The House of Unicum strives to be accessible to all visitors. Those with disabilities or special requirements should contact the museum in advance to discuss their needs and potential accommodations.

By following these house rules, foreign tourists can immerse themselves in the fascinating world of Unicum and the Zwack family legacy. The visit includes a short film about the family’s history, a guided tour of the old distillery and cellar with tastings, and an opportunity to explore the museum individually or with an audio guide. This unique experience offers insight into not only the iconic liqueur but also the rich history and culture of Hungary.

Getting There

The House of Unicum is located in the heart of Budapest, at IX. District Dandár Street 1.

Public Transportation: The House of Unicum is easily accessible by public transportation. The most convenient way to reach the museum is by taking tram lines 2 or 24. Get off at the “Haller utca / Soroksári út” stop, and the House of Unicum will be just a short 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take the M3 metro line to the “Nagyvárad tér” station and then walk for about 10 minutes to reach the museum.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, the House of Unicum offers limited on-street parking in front of the building on Dandár Street. Please note that parking is subject to a fee on weekdays from 8 am to 6 pm. You can purchase a parking ticket from the nearby ticket machines located between the House of Unicum and the Dandár Spa.

Nearby Attractions

The House of Unicum, located on Dandár Street in Budapest’s 9th district, is a popular destination for visitors interested in learning about Hungary’s iconic herbal liqueur and the fascinating history of the Zwack family. While the museum itself offers an engaging interactive experience, there are also several notable attractions nearby that are worth exploring.

• Danube Promenade: Just a short walk from the House of Unicum is the scenic Danube Promenade. This pedestrian-friendly walkway stretches along the east bank of the Danube River, offering stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building. The promenade is lined with benches, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while admiring the river and the cityscape.
• Great Market Hall: Approximately a 15-minute walk from the House of Unicum is the Great Market Hall, Budapest’s largest and most famous indoor market. This impressive neo-Gothic building, constructed in the late 19th century, houses a wide variety of stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, pastries, and traditional Hungarian handicrafts. The market’s upper floor features several eateries serving authentic Hungarian dishes, making it an ideal place to sample the local cuisine.
• Müpa Budapest: For those interested in the performing arts, Müpa Budapest (formerly known as the Palace of Arts) is a must-visit. This modern cultural complex, located about a 20-minute walk from the House of Unicum, hosts a diverse range of events, including classical music concerts, contemporary dance performances, and theatrical productions. The venue’s stunning architecture and state-of-the-art facilities make it a highlight of Budapest’s cultural scene.
• Nehru Park: Nehru Park, situated on the Danube’s eastern bank near the House of Unicum, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. This green oasis features well-maintained lawns, walking paths, and a children’s playground, making it an ideal spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park also provides excellent views of the river and the Buda Hills in the distance.

These attractions, combined with the House of Unicum, offer visitors a diverse and enriching experience in this fascinating area of Budapest. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, gastronomy, or simply enjoying the city’s beautiful surroundings, there is something for everyone near the House of Unicum.

Summary

The House of Unicum, located in the heart of Budapest, is a must-visit destination for those interested in discovering the history and secrets behind Hungary’s iconic herbal liqueur. This museum offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the Zwack family’s legacy and the production process of Unicum. If you’re planning a trip to Budapest, here’s a guide on how to reach the House of Unicum.