In the environs of St. Anne's Lake, is the dangerous marsh of Kukojszas, the surface of which is covered with aquatic plants, and studded with little lakes, glistening in the sunshine.

This part of Transylvania is inhabited by a very interesting race of men, the Szekelys, whose language is Magyar, but who are different to the Hungarians in many respects. Their origin is still obscure; at the same time, we know with certainty, that they were established from time immemorial, in the frontier districts of Transylvania, and that, protecting this country against hostile invasions, they enjoyed special privileges. The Szekelys are an industrious, clever, skilled people, the only Magyars who were able to settle themselves permanently in the mountains; they have succeeded, in spite of their unfavourable situation, in making great progress, and practise not only agriculture, but also industry and commerce. Many thousands emigrate to Romania, where they hire themselves as labourers; here they gain money, it is true, but, little by little, lose their nationality and language. The Szeklers differ essentially from the Hungarians, in their manners and customs, as also in their dress and architecture. Their houses are very original, above all, their fine gates, ornamented with historical emblems and devices.

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Adapted from Illustrated Description of Hungary and its Capital