külváros

Külváros is a Hungarian term that translates to "suburb" or "outskirts" in English. It refers to the area surrounding a city, often characterized by lower population density, a mix of residential and commercial development, and sometimes industrial zones. Külváros areas can vary significantly in their character and socioeconomic makeup, from affluent residential neighborhoods to more working-class districts.

Historically, the development of külváros areas was often driven by population growth and the need for housing beyond the city center. This expansion was frequently facilitated by improvements in transportation, such as the development of tram lines, railways, and later, roads. As cities grew, the distinction between the core urban area and its külváros became less defined, with many former suburban settlements becoming integral parts of the larger metropolitan region.

In contemporary Hungary, külváros encompasses a wide range of settlements. Some are planned residential areas with modern amenities, while others are older villages that have been absorbed into the urban sprawl. These areas often feature their own local services, schools, and shopping centers, though residents may still commute to the city center for employment or specialized services. The term can also carry connotations of being on the periphery, both geographically and sometimes socially or economically.