Order of St. Stephen handed over

Chess grand master Judit Polgár and composer Péter Eötvös have been recognized with the Order of Saint Stephen, Hungary’s highest state decoration. The decorations were handed over in the presidential Sándor Palace on August 20, Hungary’s national holiday by President János Áder.

In his address, President Áder
referred to the recipients as eminent Hungarians with achievements recognized
all over the world, the Hungarian news agency MTI reported.

The official
laudation recognized Polgár as Hungary’s greatest chess player of all time and
the best female player in the history of chess, with special regard to her
efforts in supporting young talents.

According to the laudation, Péter Eötvös has
earned the honor through his outstanding contribution to contemporary music and
support for the education of young composers and conductors.