Boglárlelle, or 13 Years of Changes in the Era of Mass Tourism

Abstract

The aim of the study is to provide a comprehensive picture of the period between 1978 and 1991 when Balatonboglár and Balatonlelle were together, i.e., the development of Boglárlelle. Placing the period under study in context, it describes the economic changes of the two settlements over the centuries, the circumstances of their union and the process of their separation. Finally, it shows what kind of developments were made to bring tourism to Lelle and Boglár in line with modern market economy conditions after their separation in 1991. In order to answer my research question, I made seconder research using professional literature, press materials, archival sources and statistics to learn about the most important developments and economic changes in the settlement during the period of 13 years. As a result of my research, I was able to present the important turning points of economic development of Balatonboglár and Balatonlelle, highlighting the changes in the 19th century when Boglár became the transport and trade centre of the of the area. Moreover, this time the development of spa culture also started in the region of the Balaton. I found that Boglár and Lelle had different economic roles in the region apart from tourism, thus the idea of their symbiotic development was established and seemed a valid argument for their union. However, while the aggregate numbers of the 13 years show progress, examining details the disparity between Boglár and Lelle becomes visible. My research has proven the validity of the concept of forced marriage for the period of Boglárlelle. Moreover, it is also confirmed by the new developments of the independent towns after their separation in 1991.