The logo represents the deep connection between groundwater and Hungary’s cultural heritage. The gémeskút (sweep pole well), a traditional Hungarian well structure depicted in the design, has been a vital water-lifting device for centuries. Originating from the ancient shadoof used in Mesopotamia and Egypt, it likely spread to Hungary during the Ottoman era. For generations, it was the most common method of accessing groundwater across the Great Hungarian Plain, owing to the shallow water table related to discharge areas. Such wells are still in use today on small farms and in some villages. Beyond its practical use, the gémeskút also played a role in rural communication, signalling daily activities to shepherds and field workers. Today, it remains an iconic symbol of Hungary’s water heritage.
The bottom represents the aquifer, highlighting the crucial role of subsurface water storage and the richness of this resource. The orange gradient symbolizes geothermal potential, emphasising the connection between groundwater and geothermal energy, a prominent feature of the Pannonian Basin.
This visual identity reflects the core themes of the conference: groundwater, sustainability, multi-resource management, and the balance between tradition and innovation.