School_traditions_of_Selmec
School traditions of Selmec originate from the Kingdom of Hungary, Selmecbánya (today Slovakia, Banská Štiavnica) and they are closely associated with the students of the Academy of Selmec. The traditions exist since 1735, when the institution was founded and named Bergschola. The school had students from all over Europe and the Habsburg Empire. When education started, the newcomers did not have an opportunity of having an accommodation or medical treatment, therefore they were supported by the older students. The newcomers underwent several challenges and an ’exam’ to be in favour of the older students. The traditions helped to create a solidarity and a communion between them. The traditions can be traced back to the system of guilds in the 12th and 14th century. Nowadays, the spirit of the Selmec traditions are kept alive by students studying in Hungarian universities, particularly in Miskolc, Sopron, Dunaújváros and Székesfehérvár and Szombathely.
The main components of the tradition are the various uniforms, profession evenings, songs and the Salamander, which is a ritual performed by graduating students.