Andau Bridge honours Hungarian uprising refugees

A cross-border ceremony at Andau Bridge commemorated the Hungarians who fled to Burgenland after the 1956 uprising was crushed, ORF reported. The bridge became a route to freedom for thousands of people.

People from both sides of the border gathered to remember the violence and persecution in Hungary, as well as the welcome refugees received in Austria. Andau Mayor Philipp Pelzer said local residents and neighbouring communities had worked together to provide for the refugees, calling their response an act of humanity.

About 70,000 men, women and children are believed to have escaped through the Andau area alone after Soviet forces and the communist government suppressed the uprising.

A new wooden memorial platform overlooking the bridge was also opened. It includes a terrace and displays texts and images about the flight and the assistance given to refugees.

Andau Bridge is Burgenland’s entry in this year’s ORF programme “9 Places, 9 Treasures”, which is due to choose Austria’s most beautiful place on October 26.