The moniker Puszta (meaning Land of Desolation), which covers the eastern half of Hungary, stuck after the region was ravaged during the Turkish occupation and laid bare by systematic deforestation. Today, the Great Plain is Hungary's agricultural heartland and home to hundreds of small villages and rustic farms. It is also famous for its equestrian culture, ever since their arrival in Europe from the Steppes in the late ninth century, the Magyars have been known for their legendary horsemanship. The whip-cracking cowboy (csikós) lifestyle still lives on in the Puszta and today's visitors are traditionally treated to impressive bareback horse shows – and given the opportunity to saddle up themselves. The vast national parks of Hortobágy and Kiskunság are home to several rare species of wildlife, and some unusual indigenous domesticated animals. The Puszta also lies on the main migratory routes of cranes, geese and wading birds, as well as being the most westerly example of the flora and fauna normally found in the Eurasian Steppes. For water babies, the River Tisza and adjoining lake offers excellent fishing, swimming and canoeing. The region's rustic nature and forgiving landscape makes it a great place for exploration by bicycle.
In addition to its natural diversity, the region has its fair share of historical cities, and Kecskemét gives ample Art Nouveau evidence of a prosperous past. Debrecen is the country's second largest city and is an important sporting venue hosting a variety of international events, as well as Hungary's premier jazz festival. In the south east, the Szeged Summer Festival is a popular celebration of diverse performing arts – all against the formidable backdrop of the city's huge neo-Romanesque church. The beautiful wine cellars of Hajós, an entire village dedicated exclusively to high-grade intoxication, the traditional Fish Soup Festival in Baja and the Szolnok Gulyás Festival are unmissable food and drink highlights.
