The museum is housed in an 18th-century Turkish building, known as the 'Hungarian House'. It was here that Lajos Kossuth (1802-1894), one of the leaders of the Hungarian freedom struggle, stayed with his family between 1850-1851 and drafted the Hungarian Constitution. Kossuth and his comrades-in-arms left Hungary due to the alliance between Austria and Russia and sought refuge in the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire accommodated this group of about one hundred and fifty refugees in Kütahya, which was considered a safer place. Kossuth and his companions arrived in Kütahya on 16 February 1850. In 1850-1851, Kossuth and his family stayed in this mansion, which belonged to Hamdi Bey of Kütahya. His residence quickly became the focus of international attention. Kossuth adapted to his circumstances and lived in a manner befitting a leader and regent. From Kütahya, he sent political letters and messages to Turkish statesmen, heads of state, and ambassadors of the United States of America, England, and France, explaining his mission. While preparing the draft Hungarian Constitution in Kütahya, he also wrote a Turkish grammar book. The people of Kütahya hosted him, his family, and friends, providing for all their needs. This visit initiated and developed sister city relations between Kütahya and Pecs City, Baranya Province, leading to positive economic, political, social, and cultural relations between The Republic of Turkey and the Republic of Hungary. The museum, which opened to the public on 19 September 1982, is dedicated to the memory of L. Kossuth. Among the personal belongings of Kossuth, visitors can see samples of his Turkish letters written in his own handwriting during his stay in Kütahya and one of his poems in the study room. Additionally, the museum exhibits ethnographic artefacts belonging to the classical Kütahya house. Lajos Kossuth once said: I am grateful to the Turks who protected me and my friends, despite the pressure from Austria and Russia. Their respect for human rights and refusal to give in to threats is admirable. Turkey's commitment to these values is a positive force for Europe and the world. I will always remember the kindness and respect shown to me by the Turkish people.
KOSSUTH HOUSE MUSEUM
