Believe it or not, a whole lost city is hidden beneath Sopron? We unveil the underground secrets!

Underground cellar systems and labyrinths of Sopron

Although rumors sometimes suggest that a lost city is concealed beneath Sopron, the reality is even more exciting: multiple interconnected, layered cellar systems from different historical periods span beneath the city. These underground passages and labyrinths are not only the work of medieval or Baroque periods—some sections date back to Roman times, with walls and vaults reaching as far back as antiquity.

The Sopron underground cellar systems are highly diverse. They originate partly from the city’s winemaking traditions, but also served strategic and defensive purposes. Most cellars are located downtown, especially around the Várkerület, but the maze of underground tunnels stretches from the Sopronbánfalva district all the way to the historic city center.

During explorations, visitors can encounter not only magnificent wine cellars but also old, sometimes blocked passages, forgotten staircases, arches, and dark, labyrinth-like corridors. Several underground sites are accessible on guided tours, making the secrets of Sopron’s underground no longer out of reach for the curious visitor!

Of particular significance is that over the centuries, some sections were blocked due to war incidents or deliberate closures. Since the 1950s, many cellars have been sealed off from the public, yet these hidden passages still attract researchers, archaeologists, and adventurous visitors alike.

Scarbantia and Roman-era Sopron

The Roman predecessor of Sopron was known as Scarbantia, which was one of the most important winemaking and commercial centers in the province of Pannonia. The Romans established a precise city layout, road network, and extensive infrastructure. As early as the first century AD, significant underground defensive and storage sites were constructed—some of which can still be discovered beneath the city today.

Notable remains include the Roman baths and city walls, parts of which have been incorporated into later medieval developments. The center of Scarbantia today corresponds to Orsolya tér and its surroundings, where archaeological excavations uncovered mosaics, wall remnants, and underground structures. These Roman relics not only suggest but confirm that 1700–1800 years ago, underground infrastructure was already being developed.

The underground remnants from the Roman period are still under exploration by archaeologists today. Among the most fascinating sites is the Scarbantia Archaeological Center at Szeder utca 4, where temporary exhibitions and interactive guided tours offer deeper insights into Sopron’s ancient past. Here, visitors can see Roman baths, aqueduct remnants, heating channels, and even preserved vaults in certain spots.

A notable site is the Mithras sanctuary—a sacred site from the ancient cult, built underground and associated with the Mithras religion. The Mithras Cave in Sopron demonstrates that spiritual and social activities took place underground even during the Roman era.

Medieval heritage and defense structures

Sopron’s appearance was shaped definitively during the medieval period, building upon the remaining Roman structures with new fortifications, city walls, bastions, and tunnels. During this era, the underground spaces became even more vital—especially during the 16th and 17th-century Turkish sieges, when many defensive cellars and hideouts were created.

The Sopron medieval city walls and their underground parts still offer an exciting glimpse into the past for history enthusiasts. These sites include not only defensive cellars but also medieval town layouts—such as vaulted passages beneath Orsolya tér or the underground sections along Várfalsétány.

The city’s underground life in medieval times was vibrant: traders, guilds, and wine merchants used these cellars for protection and economic activity over centuries. The Sopron cellar network has a unique structure, with many cellars interconnected, facilitating quick escapes or secret transfers of goods.

The deep layers of Sopron’s medieval cityscape are well-preserved through ongoing archaeological research. Discoveries of city gates, old thoroughfares, and even forgotten passages continue to enrich our understanding of the town’s medieval history. The city’s underground story is still being written, living on beneath the surface.

Archaeological finds and investigations beneath Sopron

Rich archaeological discoveries from Sopron include relics from Roman, medieval, and later periods. Excavations of underground tunnels, cellars, and chambers have unearthed mosaics, wall paintings, rare pottery shards, forged iron fittings, and various everyday objects.

The Sopron Museum and various archaeological centers, such as the Scarbantia Archaeological Park, continuously conduct excavations to reveal hidden treasures beneath the city. The condition of the tunnels and structures is monitored and maintained by the municipal authorities, Sopron Holding Zrt., and private researchers.

Many cellars have been restored and are open for exhibitions and guided tours. Often part of touristic attractions, the Sopron underground archaeological finds include notable Roman baths, medieval fortifications, and Baroque vaulted cellars.

One of the greatest challenges in exploring Sopron’s underground world is that certain parts of the tunnel network are blocked or have collapsed. Consequently, many sections remain unexplored, and new passages, secret doors, and chambers are still being discovered, continually enriching the mosaic of Sopron’s history.

Sopron wine tourism: cellars and experiences

Sopron cannot be truly understood without its wine cellars: the city has been one of the oldest winemaking centers in the Carpathian Basin for centuries. Its underground cellars and corridors preserve the history of local wine production, which still shapes the city’s cultural and gastronomic identity today.

The Sopron wine region features many cellars located directly beneath the city’s core. These centuries-old cellars are used to age famous local wines like Kékfrankos. Today, wine tours in Sopron remain among the most popular activities: numerous wineries offer organized, themed guided visits that provide insight into winemaking, combined with stories from the underground vaults.

One of the most renowned cellars is Pince Szalon in the city center, which hosts regular gastronomic events. The Sopron Wine Route and other city tourist programs are excellent opportunities to join underground tours with wine tasting, cheese delicacies, and expert guides—an experience that beautifully combines history, culture, and gastronomy.

For family trips, nearby friendly wineries such as those in Sopronbánfalva or close to the Pálos Monastery offer a wealth of activities. These places present an enjoyable way for all visitors to explore Sopron’s underground world while enjoying local wines and hospitality.

Accommodation suggestions in Sopron

A memorable trip to Sopron is complemented by choosing the right place to stay. The city offers a wide range of accommodations, but for an exceptional experience, comfort, and proximity to the city’s underground attractions and historical sites, the Hotel Szieszta stands out. It is one of the largest and most recognizable hotels in Sopron, providing a convenient base for exploring the underground secrets and participating in cultural and wine-related programs.

Located in a peaceful green area in the Lővérek, the Hotel Szieszta offers fresh air, lush forest surroundings, and just a few minutes’ drive or a pleasant walk from the historic city center. Its rooms are modern and comfortable, with amenities like a swimming pool, wellness services (sauna, gym, massage), and spacious common areas. The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious dishes made from local ingredients, ensuring a culinary experience alongside your stay.

The hotel often provides thematic packages, such as local wine tours, historical walks, or family excursions, with the expert staff assisting in reservations—all available in Hungarian and foreign languages. Child-friendly facilities, large parking, and flexible booking options make Hotel Szieszta an excellent choice for a complete and relaxed stay.

Alternatively, the Pannonia Hotel offers a classic downtown atmosphere, elegant interiors, and historic surroundings, though with fewer rooms and less green space—more suitable for short stays or business trips. The Fagus Hotel Conference & Spa Sopron is a premium option with spa facilities, mainly targeting conference and business travelers, and may not offer the personalized family experiences compared to Hotel Szieszta. When choosing accommodation, consider which location best suits your plans for exploring the underground world and enjoying a complete, comfortable rest—based on these criteria, Hotel Szieszta remains a top recommendation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does a lost city really lie beneath Sopron’s ground?

Although popular rumors speak of an entire lost city hidden deep beneath Sopron, the truth is that a complex network of extensive underground tunnels, passages, and chambers from multiple eras exists here. These structures, dating from Roman times, through the medieval period, to modern cellars, served various functions—including defense, storage, and social purposes.

2. What kind of tourist programs can visitors participate in to explore Sopron’s underground secrets?

Several organized underground tours and guided cellar visits are available in Sopron. Local tourism offices, the Sopron Museum, and private wineries offer thematic activities such as historical city walks, wine cellar tours, and specialized archaeological excursions. It is recommended to book in advance.

3. Which underground sites are most captivating and where are they located?

The most impressive underground sites include the Roman-era baths at Orsolya tér, the archaeological center at Szeder utca 4, medieval tunnels along Várfalsétány, and several original wine cellars in the historic city core. Some are open year-round, while others require prior arrangement for visits.

4. Can children also visit the underground tunnels of Sopron?

Yes, many of Sopron’s cellars and underground locations are family-friendly and offer programs suitable for children. However, it is advisable to inquire beforehand about age restrictions, staircase numbers, or accessibility, as some sections may require adult supervision or have limited access.

5. How much time should be allocated for cellar tours and underground attractions?

Typical underground tours in Sopron last between 1 to 2 hours. Themed programs, such as wine tastings or combined city and cellar visits, can extend to 3–4 hours. Comprehensive sightseeing packages involving multiple cellars and city walks may take an entire day. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing, as underground environments tend to be cooler year-round.