The Transdanubian District Court in Kőszeg (1724–1869)

Abstract

The Transdanubian District Court (Tabulae Judiciariae Districtualis Trans Danubianae) was one of the four District Courts established on the basis of Articles 30–34 of 1723 and was opened in Kőszeg on 20 April 1724. These courts dealt with economic matters of greater value for the nobility (inheritance, contracts, property rights, etc.). The legal staff (1 president, 4 judges and 12 assistants) and the lawyers, paid by the state, had a considerable influence on the town during the almost 150 years of operation. This was reflected in the built environment (the construction of almost palatial residences), but also in the promotion of the economic and intellectual development of the citizens. They benefited directly by renting accommodation and living there, as well as their clients. In the first half of the 19^th century, they initiated the creation of institutions such as the savings bank and the post office. They helped to run humane societies (hospital, music and reading societies).

No wonder, then, that local people tried to do their utmost to preserve this asset. However, a fateful event in Hungarian history, the political and legal changes after the Austro-Hungarian compromise 1867, made this no longer possible.