A turning point in the history of Alcsút occurred in 1819 with the arrival of Joseph II. The prince was determined to restore the fertility of the land. Thus, the shifting sands transformed into a flourishing economy in the region.

Joseph II’s passion for botany had a direct impact on Alcsút and its surroundings in Máriavölgy. He sometimes tended to the plants he had planted himself, leading the locals to often believe he was a gardener, and they did not forget to reward his efforts.

His daughter, Maria Henrietta, was also sensitive to the beauty of nature and placed extraordinary ambition into the care of her own garden plot. Her athleticism was noteworthy, and she particularly loved to ride.

The building was not unknown to the people of the time, Mór Jókai regaled his readers with numerous articles on the Habsburgs.

The prince’s son, Archduke Joseph Karl, continued his father’s legacy and also introduced and recorded numerous plant species in written documents.

The building, commonly known as the Cifra Stable, currently operates as a golf club, which opened its doors in 1996 and quickly became a key player in Hungarian golf life. The 18-hole golf course located in the valley was designed by Hans G. Erhardt, providing the perfect setting for both beginner and advanced golfers.