TOLNA

megye (county), south central Hungary, extending westward from the Danube and with an area of 1,429 sq mi (3,702 sq km). Near the Danube the landscape is flat, rising gently west to the Hegyht (Ridge of Hills) and the northeastern outliers of the Mecsek Mountains. In the Srkz riverine lowland the Gemenc Forest is a wildlife sanctuary. Corn (maize), wheat, tobacco, and tomatoes are important crops; there is some canning of fruit, vegetables, and meat. Pigs, sheep, and cattle are raised, and leather is produced. In the Srkz area the peasant costumes are known for the quality of their embroidery and weaving. Principal towns are Szekszrd (q.v.), the megye seat, Paks, where Hungary's first atomic power plant was constructed, and Dunafldvr, where road and rail cross the Danube. Near Szekszrd is the Plant Research Institute, which concentrates on improving strains of hops, soybeans, and sunflowers. Pop. (1990 prelim.) 253,681.