Hotel Korona in Miskolc (also known as the Avas Hotel) serves as MCC's talent and education center in the city. Today, this iconic building in downtown Miskolc awaits a complete renovation, so that it may once again shine in its former glory. MCC’s goal is to transform the hotel into a second home for the students of its Miskolc Center — not merely a building, but a true community space.

History

Hotel Korona, beloved by the townspeople, was known as Korona Inn before World War II and first opened its doors in 1894 with 35 rooms. Earlier, a smaller hotel stood on the same site, also bearing the name Korona. The hotel has always played a prominent role in the city’s tourism, hospitality, and cultural life.

The renowned actress Déryné once stayed here with fellow actors who had been expelled from Pest, as the displaced troupe was given the opportunity to continue performing within its walls. In 1815, the play “Fairyland in Hungary” was staged in Korona’s courtyard, marking the beginning of regular theatrical performances in Miskolc. In 1883, the Miskolc-born actress Róza Laborfalvi celebrated the 50th anniversary of her career here, with her husband, the famous writer Mór Jókai, also present at the gala performance.

The fate of Hotel Korona took a sad turn in 1987 when it was closed down. Despite several changes in ownership over the years, the building was never renovated. Its preservation and utilization have been discussed for years — even decades — yet the issue has remained unresolved to this day.

The New Center

The goal of MCC is to make its free programs accessible to as many young people as possible, which is why it is gradually expanding its activities in the most important regional centers, including Miskolc. Following the renovation, the property will function as an educational and research center as well as a residential student dormitory.

In addition, the building will regain its former functions that once enriched the city’s civic life. MCC plans to organize public events in the venue — such as book launches, roundtable discussions, and conferences — further strengthening Miskolc’s regional role.

MCC has been present in Miskolc since 2015, when it launched the Youth Talent Program (FIT) for upper primary school students. The first major step in expansion came in September 2021, when MCC opened its High School Program (KP) and University Program (EP) in Miskolc, offering numerous opportunities for curious students eager to broaden their knowledge of the world.

Results of the Condition Assessment

MCC is working at full speed to ensure the renewal of Hotel Korona, a centuries-old, listed historic building complex in Miskolc that has long been in a neglected state, so that it may once again shine in its former glory. One of the most important tasks in the initial phase was preservation. The longer the building is left to deteriorate, the harder its restoration becomes, as more and more issues emerge that need to be addressed during the renovation process.

The primary goal, therefore, was to prevent further decay. For this reason, the missing doors and windows were temporarily boarded up, and the gaps in the roof were covered with protective sheeting. The planning phase began in July 2022 and successfully concluded with the completion of the full documentation. In 2024, the project received all the necessary permits for implementation.

In full compliance with legal requirements, MCC announced a public procurement process for the complete renovation works. According to the plans, a contract with the selected contractor can be signed in 2025, allowing the comprehensive renovation to begin. The project will not only restore the building to its original splendor but will also modernize it technically, while MCC also plans to create landscaped green areas in its immediate surroundings.