Szarásbans

Szarásbánya, commonly known as Szarásbans in some historical and regional contexts, is a small village located in the Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén county of northeastern Hungary. Situated in the Szikszói Hills, the village lies within the traditional region of Szatmár, near the border with Romania. Its name derives from the Hungarian words *szára* (meaning "sawdust" or "shavings") and *bánya* (meaning "mine"), reflecting its historical association with timber and mining activities.

The area surrounding Szarásbánya has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting human presence during the Bronze Age. The village itself was first documented in written records in the 14th century, though its exact founding date remains unclear. Historically, the region was part of the Kingdom of Hungary, and like much of northeastern Hungary, it experienced periods of Ottoman occupation and later Habsburg rule. The village’s economy was traditionally based on agriculture, forestry, and small-scale mining, particularly the extraction of iron ore and timber.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Szarásbánya, like many rural Hungarian villages, saw gradual modernization, including the introduction of new farming techniques and infrastructure improvements. The village’s population has fluctuated over time, with a notable decline in the 20th century due to emigration and rural depopulation. Today, Szarásbánya remains a quiet, agricultural community with a population of just over 100 residents, as of recent census data.

The village features traditional Hungarian architecture, with wooden houses and stone structures that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. Locally, the community celebrates folk festivals and religious events, such as Easter and harvest festivals, which highlight its strong ties to Hungarian rural traditions. Szarásbánya is also part of the broader cultural landscape of the Szikszói Hills, an area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and historical sites.

While Szarásbánya is not a major tourist destination, its proximity to larger towns like Miskolc and Szikszó makes it accessible for visitors interested in exploring the lesser-known regions of northeastern Hungary. The village continues to preserve its historical identity while adapting to the challenges of modern rural life.