Sustainable Water Resource Management and Wetlands Rehabilitation in Central Europe

The program focuses on the following topics: Wetland rehabilitation, smart storm water management, the effect of the EU Water Framework Directive on sustainable water resources management, and remote sensing and GIS tools for water resource management. It includes a variety of field excursions, meetings with individuals and representatives of organizations, and lectures in computer labs.

Wildlife Photography, Natural History, Science Communication 

The course is led by a National Geographic photographer and biology professor. It focuses on discovering the natural history of the Mecsek Mountains and surrounding habitats where Pécs is located. Participants will learn how to find exciting plants and animals, how to photograph them effectively, and how to publish on different scientific and social media platforms.

Viticulture and Enology 

Theoretical and practical courses will be offered for two- and three-week periods. 

Viticulture and enology have played an important role in societies since the beginning of human civilization. The Enology Researcher Institute in Pécs possesses the sixth largest grape gene bank in the world and the second largest in Europe. Additionally, the institute is known for its high-quality work and modern scientific research that is always applied practically. The facility is located on a 300-year-old estate with diverse topographical conditions. Its vineyards represent all types of cultivation methods, making it one of Hungary’s most unique and prominent research institutes. 

Our summer school program offers two topics for students to study:

1. Viticulture: Students learn about the fascinating aspects of the world-class grape gene bank, such as its significance, the characteristics of varieties from around the world, and the responses and methods used to address climate change. The gene bank contains more than 1,600 different varieties from Japan to Georgia, and even North America. The facility is also equipped with a digital wine registry system enabling observations and scientific research internationally.

2. Winemaking: Students study the processes and methods of sparkling wine production based on tradition and modern trends such as harvesting and bottling. This includes the production of sparkling wine, prosecco, and pétillant-naturel (Pét-Nat); the techniques of processing and fermentation; and the utilisation of modern equipment. Pécs played a prominent role in sparkling wine production as early as the 19th century with the Littke champagne factory established in 1859, which was Hungary’s second champagne factory.

The Champagne House, which can still be visited today, features one of the longest cellar systems in Pécs (approximately 2-kilometers long). During the summer program, participants will visit the Champagne House.

• Tradition, science, and modern practices in one location
• The sixth largest gene bank in the world
• 300 years of history
• A grape collection consisting of 1,600 items
• A 1,600 m² cellar
• 30 hectares of vineyards