District Wardens in the Cities of Northern Hungary in the 18th to 21st Centuries

Abstract In Hungarian settlements, tizedek (tenths), streets, divisions, and fertályok ( viertel s, quarters, or districts) were areas that enjoyed a certain autonomy. They led by elected “decurions,” “street captains,” “captains” in Hungarian-populated viertelmeister district wardens, German-speaking settlements. These officials liaised between the municipal authorities local community. From 16th century until mid-19th century, decurions wardens had official powers, kept population informed about national regulations, helped carry out censuses, collected taxes, organized public works. played key role maintaining law order their neighborhoods, ensuring protection from fire. northeastern region of present-day Hungary, we have information concerning history cities Eger, Gyöngyös, Miskolc, while case Eger tradition is still existence today. There as early end 17th who replaced 1710s. The position existed Gyöngyös middle 18th 1874. there 1794 to 1800. After hiatus half was then restored, 1884 parallel “section warden” abolished. active 1949, then, after forced interruption Socialist era, institution revived 1996, becoming an important element identity through its heritage preservation activities. present study introduces different eras warden, changing functions, organizational structure, symbols, various forms social interaction. only city Hungary which this centuries-old office preserved today, justifying inclusion living custom UNESCO National Inventory Intangible Cultural Heritage 2014.