Explore the Khust District

Situated amidst the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains, Khust (also Chust) is a city in the Zakarpattia Oblast of Ukraine. Standing near to the junction of the Tisza and Rika rivers, Khust is the administrative center of the Raion, or District, of the same name. The city and district offer travelers a number of fascinating attractions and its history is of great interest.

Khust had its beginnings as a fortified Rus town in the 10th century. Over time the town fell into the hands of Hungary, Galicia-Volhynia, Transylvania, Czechoslovakia and the Soviet Union. The original castle, constructed to guard the salt route, was rebuilt in 1312 after its destruction by the Mongols. It was later struck by lightning in 1766, which resulted in it being burnt down, with a storm felling the tower in 1798. Since that time the castle has lain in ruins and is now a tourist attraction. Famous people from Khust have included scientist Count Jozsef Teleki, historian Jozsef Koller, writer Erno Szep, journalist Jeno Benda, and business executive Leslie Buck.

There is much to see and do in the city of Khust and the surrounding district. As already mentioned, the castle ruins are a major attraction sitting atop Castle Hill. After the half hour climb up the hill and examining the ruins, travelers can take in the stunning view of the valley. A similar attraction is the Vyshkovo Castle ruins on Var-Hegy Hill. Within the district are various religious sites, including the Hungarian Protestant fortress church, known as Elizabeth’s Church. Constructed during the 13th century, the building is guarded by thick walls. Various monuments are situated in the garden and the inside features an impressive fresco of King Istvan, Prince Imre and a Hungarian saint, dating back to the 13th century. The village of Danylovo is home to the St Michael’s church, built in 1779; while Oleksandrivka village’s church was raised in 1753. Various monasteries are located in villages throughout the Khust Raion.

Natural attractions also abound in this area. The beautiful Valley of Narcissus becomes a carpet of delicate flowers in early May, creating a breath-taking scene for visitors. The volcanic lakes of Lypovets and Nankovo are also worth a visit. Those who travel to the village will find a well-known deer farm, where axis deer are raised.

A number of buses travel to Khust directly from Kiev, Uzhhorod, Chernivtsi, Lviv and other major cities. The nearest airport is located in Uzhhorod, 60 miles from Khust. The city can also be reached by train from Uzhhorod and Lviv.