Sights To See
Museums have not been included here. For more information, please go to the Links page.
BKV the company that runs all of the public transportation in the city has held many strikes for one or two days. Some strikes are only for the buses and trolley buses, while at other times, it is the metros and trams. They have two different unions. Most of the strikes are publicly announced ahead of time if they are over the course of a day or longer. There have been some "surprise" strikes that have lasted 1-2 hours and without warning.
At the same time, MÁV, the Hungarian train system has also had unannounced or very short notice strikes.
Ron, is now a docent at the Museum of Fine Arts located in Hero's Square. They offer free tours of a particular gallery in English at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm, Tuesdays through Fridays and Saturdays at 11:00 am.
V. Szent István tér 33, Metro:
M3 Arany János utca/M3
Bajcsy-Zsilinszky u, Website:
www.basilica.hu, Open (mass times): 7am-9am,
5:30pm-8pm daily,
The Basilica of St. Stephen (which stands on the square of the same name) is
Budapest's largest church holding more than 8000 worshippers.
Designed by Jozsef Hild in 1845, work only began in earnest in 1851. However, Hild died before the project was complete, leaving the task of overseeing its construction to architect Miklós Ybl. During an inspection, Ybl was amazed to find that huge cracks had appeared in many of the building's outer walls. Less than a week after cordoning off the site, the church's vast dome tilted and collapsed. The remainder was also declared structurally unsound and demolished to make way for Ybl's neo-Renaissance design. The building, which was finally opened by Emperor Francis Joseph in 1906, also suffered terribly from allied bombing raids during World War II.
In the Szent jobb kápolna (chapel of the Sacred Right) lies Catholic Hungary's most revered relic - what is claimed to be the mummified right hand of St. Stephen. For the princely sum of 60 HUF, you can get one of the resident attendants to flick a switch, lighting up the small glass case containing the hand. Eerie in the extreme.
Quite rightly, however, the inside of the Basilica has been criticized as being too dark - there are simply not enough windows for such a large building. Consequently, it's hard to fully appreciate the interior decoration of the church, which includes Gyula Benczúr's depiction of St. Stephen offering the Hungarian crown to the Virgin Mary. That said, recent improvements - which include additional lighting in the nave and the overhaul of the cathedral's organ - were part of a protracted restoration programme costing in excess of $17 million USD. Most of the funding, which was spent on the cathedral's exterior, has taken more than twenty years to complete although, judging by the results, it was certainly worth the expense! And, with the addition of an impressive piazza area, the Basilica is definitely a "must see" for first-time visitors to Budapest.
V. Báthory utca, Metro:
M2 Kossuth tér,
The memorial flame near Báthory utca commemorates Count Lajos Batthyány,
Hungarian prime minister at the time of the 1848 revolution against the
Habsburgs.
As one of the most prominent figures in the uprising, Batthyány was immediately imprisoned after the revolt was crushed. The flame actually marks the spot of his execution a year later by firing squad.
XIV.
Állakerti út 6-12, Metro:
M1 Széchenyi fürdő, Bus 72, Website: http://www.zoobudapest.com,
Completed in 1911, most of the zoo's original buildings have now been replaced,
although the elephant house near the main gate remains largely intact. Improved funding has meant that
facilities are now on a par with standards of those in the west, with the zoo
also being very well-signed and child friendly. The attraction is open all year
round, but longer hours operate during the summer months. The world's first test
tube rhinoceros was born here in 2007 in addition to the rate birth of triplet
leopards.
I. Buda, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz, Bus 16,
It's with good reason that many guidebooks on Budapest open with a chapter on
the Castle District. The majority of Buda's principal tourist sights - which
include the Royal Palace, Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church - are situated
here.
Don't be fooled into thinking that you'll be able to conduct a whistle stop tour in a single day though. Almost every cobbled street leads on to a place of interest, whether it's a landmark building, a row of baroque houses or a charming little café where locals chat, play chess, or read the early morning papers. Regarded as Budapest's 'trump card' in attracting tourists, the beauty and historic importance of buildings here is reflected by the fact that the entire area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Traffic within the Castle District is limited to taxis, buses and cars belonging to guests of the Hilton Hotel, so this is fairly pedestrian friendly.
I. Szinház utca 1-3, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz, Bus 16,
Originally constructed as a Carmelite church in 1736, the building was later
redesigned as a theatre following the dissolution of the order by Joseph II in
1784. For a short time it was used by a German theatre company, although
performances were given in Hungarian from 1790 onwards.
Despite being heavily damaged during World War II, the theatre retains its original baroque façade, though sadly, the wooden gallery which survived right up until 1924 has since been replaced by a much smaller one made from marble and concrete. Surprisingly, the theatre was not renovated until the late-seventies, before finally re-opening to the public in 1978.
IX. Fővam tér, Metro:
M2 Kálvin tér, Trams 2, 47, 49, Open: 6am-5pm Mon,
6am-6pm Tue-Fri, 6am-2pm Sat,
Heading south-west from Kálvin tér to Vámház körút, you'll come across the
largest of five market halls opened towards the end of the 19th-century - the
Central Market Hall. This grand structure originally incorporated an indoor
canal by which goods were delivered to the market's traders. Restored in 1994,
the sheer size and grandeur of the hall reflects an era when Budapest was a city
with big ideas.
Although the canal is long gone, visitors can still marvel at the amazing variety of fresh produce, meat and flowers for sale. Housed beneath a beautifully restored Zsolnay tiled roof, the immaculately laid out market stalls charge the senses with a combination of vivid colors and intoxicating smells.
As is the case with many of Europe's great market halls, if you plan to visit, do so early in the morning. Saturday in particular, is the best time to see this impressive market in full swing.
VII. Dóhany utca 2,
M2 Astoria, Bus 7, 7A, 78, Tram 47, 49, Trolleybus 74,
Open: 10am-3pm Mon-Fri, 10am-1pm Sun,
Completed in 1859 from a Lajos Förster design, the Great Synagogue is second
only in size to New York's Temple Emmanuel. Two impressive 'Moorish' style domes
make it one of the most distinguishable landmarks in Pest, while the detailed
façade of the building is decorated with brickwork in the heraldic colors of
the city - blue, yellow and red.
Adjoining the main building (on the corner of Wesselényi u.) is the Heroes Temple, which seats 250 people and is used for religious services on weekdays. Although not open to the public, the Lazlo Vago/Ferenc Farogó design serves as a memorial to Hungarian Jews who gave their lives during World War I. The courtyard to the rear houses the Synagogue's garden of remembrance. Here, Imre Varga's poignant weeping willow stands as a memorial to the Holocaust. As well as the names of Jewish families who were murdered, an inscription simply reads 'Whose agony is greater than mine'. A moving exhibition on the fate of Budapest's Jewish population during World War II is also housed in a wing of the Synagogue.
XI. Gellérthegy, Bus 27, Tram 18, Website
http://.
www.citadella.hu
Built by the Habsburgs in the middle of the 19th-century, the Citadella's hill
top position was used to strengthen their hold over Buda's inhabitants after the
failed War of Independence between 1848-1849. Since then, the building has been
used as a prison camp and an anti-aircraft battery by German forces during World
War II.
Still scarred by bullet holes, the building today houses a restaurant, café and
a youth hostel (the most inexpensive accommodation in town) while the area
around the Citadella commands some of the most breathtaking views of the city.
Just a short walk away is the statue of St. Gellért and the Liberation Monument.
I. Batthyány tér 8,
M2 Batthyány tér, Open (for services only):
6:45am-9am, 4pm-7pm Mon-Sat, 7am-1pm Sun,
Guide books on Budapest are typically unrestrained in their praise for St
Anne's. In truth, it's not difficult to see why. Located on the south side of
Batthyhány tér, this fine Baroque building (Kristóf Hamon, Máté Nepauer
1740-1762) is a wholly captivating place of worship.
Over the years the church has withstood the ravages of earthquakes, floods, two World Wars and the construction of the nearby metro line and station. It's elegant well-proportioned exterior is matched inside by the high altar statues of the Virgin Mary and St Anne. Statues of angels and cherubs embellish the supporting altars, with a wonderful oval domed ceiling fresco by Pál Molnar completing the effect.
VI. Dósza Győrgy út, Metro:
M1 Hősök tere,
Known to locals as the Városliget, the park was originally designed to celebrate
the Hungarian Millennium (in 1896) and includes the Vajdahunyad Castle and a
small artificial lake. As a popular area to stroll around, it's also near to a
number of other attractions such as the Széchenyi baths, Heroes' Square and
Vidam Park. The famous Gundel restaurant is also just a few minutes walk away.
I. Clark Ádám tér, Bus 16, 86, Tram
19,
On the Buda side of the Lanchíd (Chain bridge) is a small park named after the
famous British engineer who helped construct the crossing.
Aside from serving as the lower terminus of the Castle District Funicular (from where you can ascend to the Royal Palace), the park also houses the Kilometre Zero stone, the point from which all road distances from Budapest are measured.
Although today's Dunakorzó (universally known as the korzó) cannot be compared to the grand promenade which existed during the second half of the 19th-century, it remains a favourite spot for tourists. Running alongside the Danube between the Erszébet and Szabadság bridges, the korzó follows the route of the No. 2 villamos passed the Sofitel Regency, InterContinental and Marriott Hotels.
On a warm summer's day, it's fashionable to sit and chat over a cold beer or coffee in one of the many riverside cafés (service can be painfully slow during high season though). Alternatively, you can sit and admire the views of Buda, free of charge, from one of the old-time replica 'Buchwald-chairs' on the front. Also worth looking out for is Lazlo Marton's little bronze statue of a child perched on the railings between the korzó and the tramline. Entitled 'Little Princess' the figure is curiously seen wearing a jester's hat. Less than five minutes walk away is the fashionable Váci utca which stretches from Vörösmarty tér to Vámház kórút.
I. Bécsi Kapu tér, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz, Bus 16,
Just through the Vienna gate and off to the right lies Europa Grove. 16
different types of tree were planted here by European mayors back in 1972, to
commemorate the centenary of the unification of Buda, Óbuda and Pest. The grove
is best seen in blossom during early spring.
I. Buda Castle District, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér,
M2 Batthyány tér, Várbusz,
The Fishermen's Bastion (designed by Frigyes Schluek) is made up of seven round
towers - each one symbolising the seven Magyar tribes that effectively gave rise
to the nation a thousand years earlier.
Almost fairytale like in appearance, its decorative white rampart and flowing staircases stretch alongside the eastern front of the Mátyás Templom. According to tradition, the area directly behind the church housed a local fish market during medieval times - hence the name of the Bastion. During the 18th century, the Guild of Fisherman are also said to have traditionally defended this part of the castle wall.
The glorious views of Parliament and Pest beyond are simply breathtaking. In fact, there's arguably no finer place in Budapest to propose to your nearest and dearest, or go for a romantic stroll on a warm summer's night!
In previous years, the area directly
opposite the entrance to the Mátyás Templom was also chock-full of stalls
selling Hungarian lace and other traditional souvenirs. These have since been
relocated further afield towards the Royal Palace at Disz tér. However, local
artists still beckon tourists to sit for caricatures, which curiously enough,
all finish up with the same exaggerated facial features.
Former White Cross Inn
I. Batthyány tér,
M2 Batthyány tér,
On the west side of Batthyhány tér is the former White
Cross Inn. Dating back to the late 17th century, this fine Baroque building was,
at the time, a popular and important venue for theatrical performance. Today
it's named Casanova House - apparently after the great man himself, who is said
to have stayed here. As far as latter day entertainment is concerned, there's a
fairly uninspiring disco/bar on the ground floor.
I. Fő utca 17, Metro:
M2 Batthyány tér, Tram 19, Website:
www.inst-france.hu,
Opened in 1992 on the site of the former French Embassy, George Maurois' elegant
post modernist building (1989) is a welcome addition to Buda's embankment. The
institute, which organises a wide variety of cultural events including classical
performances, jazz concerts, exhibitions and lectures, also houses a French
language library, theatre and bookshop. The views of downtown Pest from the
library are magnificent. What's more the institute's chic café provides a
relaxing and interesting way to spend an hour.
I. Clark Ádam tér, Bus 16, 86, 105,
Tram 19, Open: 7:30am-10pm daily. Closed for maintenance every second Monday,
By far the most tranquil way of ascending Castle Hill to the Royal Palace is the
Sikló. Originally opened in 1870, its main function was in providing cheap
transport for local workers. Fortune has, however, not always favoured the two
little cable cars. Wrecked by German shelling in 1945, the Sikló was left in a
state of disrepair until being fully restored in 1986.
Today's replica carriages, which use electricity rather than steam power, complete the steep ascent to Szent György tér in just under one minute. The comparative quiet inside the cars contrasts strikingly with the view across the Danube to bustling downtown Pest.
While photographers and video enthusiasts will find shots from the Sikló irresistible in the early morning, romantic couples will, no doubt, prefer the spectacular floodlit views of the city at night. The lower terminus is just next to the bridge at Clark Ádám tér.
Gellért Hill is the perfect vantage point to view central Budapest. At the summit are the Liberation Monument and Citadella. The hill itself is named after Bishop Gellért who had been invited by St. Stephen to help convert pagan Magyars to Christianity. As legend goes, in the wake of Stephen's death, Gellért met his untimely death after being toppled off the hillside in a barrel by militant heathens. His bronze statue (Gyula Jankovits 1904) stands on the spot where he was martyred. To reach the summit you can either climb the winding paths from the statue or Hotel Gellért, or catch a bus to the top. The panoramic views from the summit are unparalleled elsewhere in Budapest ().
VII. Király utca/Dob utca, Metro:
M2 Astoria, Trams 47, 49,
A long row of seven linked inner courtyards in the heart of the old Jewish
quarter, in which you'll find a number of small shops and workshops. Not far
from Deák tér, this area will give you a small taste of how Jewish Budapest used
to be. Depending on which end you enter from, the entrances are at 16 Dob utca
or 13 Király utca. This is now being reconstructed as fancy shops, an upscale
housing building and with high priced restaurants, killing off its historical
value.
V. Roosevelt tér 6, Metro:
Vörösmarty tér, Tram 2,
Commissioned by the Gresham Insurance Company of London in 1904, Zsigmond
Quittner's extravagant Art Nouveau Palace is situated at the very foot of the
Lánchid on Roosevelt tér.
Although the richly decorated façade crumbled during post war years, it was still easy to appreciate just what a remarkable addition to the riverbank the building was at the time. Completed in 1907, and undoubtedly state of the art for the period, the Palace was fitted with all the latest mod-cons including central heating and a unique central vacuum system. Despite the building being heavily damaged in both World War II and the 1956 uprising, the beautiful wrought-iron 'peacock' entrance gates survived intact. Inside, on the second floor, Miksa Róth's fine stained glass window depicts the Hungarian reformist politician Lajos Kossuth.
Now, after being purchased by the Four Season's chain, over $85 million has been spent on turning the building into a luxury hotel (opening early 2004). For further information, including more on the reconstruction project, visit: www.greshampalace.com
VI. Hősök tere, Metro:
M1 Hősök tere,
Built in 1896 to celebrate the millennium of the Hungarian conquest of the
Carparthian Basin, Heroes' Square is a vast and grandiose symbol of 19th-century
Hungarian nationalism.
An imposing 36-metre high column which supports the winged figure of the Archangel Gabriel (György Zala 1896) is encircled on its pedestal by statues of the seven conquering Magyar tribal chiefs on horseback. Behind, are two semi-circular colonnades housing the statues of the most famous rulers in Hungarian history.
The stone tablet in front of the main column, which on ceremonial occasions is guarded by soldiers, commemorates those who died for national freedom and independence. The square is flanked on either side by the Szépmüvészeti Múzeum (Museum of Fine Arts) and the Múcsarnok (Palace of Art).
I. Hess András tér, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz,
On the western side of Hess András tér stands the
Budapest Hilton. Although Béla Pintér's mid-70s
building is now showing its age, the design is set apart from others in the city
thanks to the incorporation of a 13th-century Dominican church (and the wall of
a 17th-century Jesuit college) into the hotel's main core. The Dominican
courtyard, which sits between the two main wings, is occasionally used as for
open-air operas during the summer.
I. Szentháromság tér, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz,
Treated as just another snapshot by the coach loads of
tourists that descend on Castle Hill during the summer, the solemn meaning
behind the Baroque style Holy Trinity column is often lost amidst the frantic
clicking of camera shutters.
The column, which stands in the centre of Szentháromság tér (Trinity Square) was built by Buda's Council in the early part of the 18th century to serve as a lasting memorial to those who died in the devastating plague of 1691.
At the foot of the column, the biblical King David is depicted praying for an end to the plague, while on the main body a multitude of saints and cherubs can be seen under the golden Holy Trinity.
The square itself, which used to be a market place in medieval times, is the highest point of Castle Hill.
V. Szabadság tér 8-9 and Bank utca/Sas
utca (Bank Center), Metro:
M3 Arany János u, Website:
www.mnb.hu and
www.bankcenter.hu,
Think of two heavyweight boxers in the ring and you'll get some idea as to the
size and style of these two buildings, which stand opposite each other on Bank
utca.
Whilst neither can be considered among Budapest's finest, Ignác Alpár's 1905 Hungarian National bank is undoubtedly the grander of the two. On the first floor level are elegant limestone reliefs depicting every aspect of money, commerce and trading in the early 20th century.
V. Március 15 tér, Metro:
M3 Ferenciek tere, Open: 9am-12:30pm, 6pm-7pm Mon-Sat,
6pm-7pm Sun,
Standing at the Pest end of the Elizabeth Bridge, the Inner City Parish Church
was saved from demolition by popular protest at the time of the original
bridge's construction (one of the earliest environmental campaigns in Hungary).
While the church's origins date back to the 12th century, it's easy to spot how
the building has been altered and enlarged over the centuries. Indeed, it was
almost completely rebuilt twice in the 14th and 18th centuries. The Turks also
used it as a mosque while they occupied the city, and you can still see a carved
Muslim prayer niche on the right side of the church's main altar.
I. Úri utca, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz, Bus/16, Open 9:30am-7.30pm
Mon-Sun,
Budapest Card accepted, Website:
www.labirintus.com,
The labyrinth of caves and tunnels which stretch for over 10 kilometres beneath
Castle Hill are said to have been joined together by the Turks during the middle
ages for military purposes. In the 17th century, parts of the catacombs were
used to store wine. More recently, the immediate area under Úri utca served as
an air-raid shelter during World War II. Today, about 1.5 kilometres are open to
the general public, with an area of the labyrinth set aside for a waxwork
exhibition on early Hungarian history.
Unfortunately, there's no way of visiting the caves unless you pay to see the exhibition (which many have found disappointing and pricey). One plus point however, is the Labyrinth café which has live music performances during the summer from blues and jazz artists. Guided tours of the caves - which start every 10-20 minutes - are given in four languages including English.
XI.
Gellérthegy, Bus 27, Website: http://www.citadella.hu,
A short walk from the Citadel is the 14-metre high liberation monument
commissioned by Admiral Horthy, Hungary's pre-war and World War II dictator.
Zigmond Kisfaludy-Strobl's original design, which featured a female figure
holding an aircraft propeller, was commissioned after the death of Horthy's son
István who was killed in a plane crash during World War II. It's said that when
the Red Army arrived in 1945, a palm replaced the propeller and the monument
came instead to symbolise liberation from Fascist rule. In truth, the Russian
version of the monument is a different design by the same sculptor. Ironically,
the statue of the Red Army soldier that stood guard at the foot of the monument
has been unceremoniously carted off to Statue Park on the outskirts of the city.
I. Országház utca/Kapisztrán tér,
Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz,
Today, all that remains of the 13th-century Franciscan church which once stood
here is the Mary Magdelene Tower. Both the chancel and nave of the church were
destroyed during allied bombing raids in World War II and although the tower
itself is largely a post-war reconstruction, the building has a rich turbulent
history. For a short time, under Turkish occupation, it continued to hold
Christian services, with Protestants using the nave and Catholics the chancel.
Eventually, it too was converted into a mosque, although following the expulsion
of the Turks in 1686 it reverted back to a church in which Franz I was crowned
here in 1872. Later on it served as the garrison church for men stationed at the
neighbouring army barracks.
The 1˝ mile long Margaret Island (), which is connected to both Buda and Pest by the Margaret and Árpád Bridges, is one of the most beautiful open spaces in the city. Visitors wanting to take time out from the noise and bustle of Pest will enjoy the serenity of the island's park, which was established over one hundred years ago (1869). The island was named after the daughter of King Bela IV (1235-1270) who lived in a Dominican convent here during the 13th century. The ruins of the convent can still be seen today on the island's east bank.
Heading south from Árpád híd along the Pest side of the island, you'll find two spa hotels situated in close proximity to each other (they are actually linked by an underground tunnel). The first is Miklós Ybl's attractively designed Grand Hotel which shares its facilities with the relatively modern Thermal Hotel. A short distance away is the island's distinctive and colourful rock garden, which leads on to Szent Mihály templom, a 20th-century reconstruction of a 12th-century church.
There are two public baths on the island - the first being the sprawling Palatinus strand, which can hold up to 20,000 people in the summer (with both cold/warm water pools and an artificial wave maker). The smaller Hajós baths to the south is named after Hungary's first Olympic gold medallist in swimming.
I.
Szentháromság tér 2, Varbusz, Open daily 9am-5pm, Website: http://www.matyas-templom.hu
At the very heart of Buda's Castle District is the Mátyás Templom. Officially
named as the Church of Our Lady, it has been popularly named after King Matthias
Corvinus (Good King Mátyás) who ordered the construction of its original
southern tower. In many respects, the 700 year history of the church serves as a
symbol (or perhaps a reminder for Hungarians) of the city's rich, yet often
tragic history. Not only was the church the scene of several coronations,
including that of Charles IV in 1916 (the last Habsburg king), it was also the
site for King Mátyás' two weddings (the first to Catherine of Podiebrad and,
after her death, to Beatrice of Aragon).
Any Hungarian historian of note will tell you that the darkest period in the church's history was the century and a half of Turkish occupation. The vast majority of its ecclesiastical treasures were shipped off to Pozsony (Bratislava) and following the capture of Buda in 1541 the church spent life as the city's main mosque. To add insult to injury, ornate frescoes that previously ordained the walls of the building were whitewashed and interior furnishings stripped out.
Although following Turkish expulsion in 1686 an attempt was made to restore the church in the Baroque style, historical evidence shows that the work was largely unsatisfactory. It was not until the great architectural boom towards the end of the 19th century that the building regained much of its former splendour. The architect responsible for this work was Frigyes Schulek.
Not only was the church restored to its original 13th century plan but a number of early original Gothic elements were uncovered. By also adding new motifs of his own (such as the diamond pattern roof tiles and gargoyles laden spire) Schulek ensured that the work, when finished, would be highly controversial. Today however, Schulek's restoration provides visitors with one of the most prominent and characteristic features of Budapest's cityscape.
Inside, visitors tend to head straight for the Ecclesiastical Art museum which begins in the medieval crypt and leads up to the St. Stephen Chapel. The gallery contains a number of sacred relics and medieval stone carvings, along with replicas of the Hungarian royal crown and coronation jewels.
VII. Erzsébet körút 9-11, Metro:
M2 Astoria, Tram 4, 6
Previously shrouded under scaffolding and a dirty black exterior, visitors 'not
in the know' would simply pass by the New York Kávéház without discovering the
wonderfully lavish neo-Baroque interior of this late 19th-century building.
Unfortunately, the café, which was once the haunt of Budapest's most famous
poets and playwrights, was rammed unceremoniously by a Russian tank during the
1956 uprising (it also suffered significant bomb damage during WWII). Until now
the resultant structural damage was deemed too costly to repair.
All of that has changed, however, following the acquisition of the New York Palace (in which the café is housed) by Italian hotel group Boscolo. After more than 8 Billion HUF on restoration work alone, they are transformed the building into a luxury 235 room, five star hotel. This remodeling started in 2001 and has finally been completed. Take a peek inside, but note that the restaurant and café are a bit pricey.
VI. Andrássy út 22, Metro:
M1 Opera, Box office opens: 10am 7pm daily, Guided
Tours 3pm and 4pm daily, Website:
www.opera.hu,
Designed by Miklós Ybl to commemorate the Hungarian millennium celebrations,
Budapest's magnificent State Opera House was completed in 1884. Regarded as one
of the most important historical buildings in Hungary, its elegantly styled
neo-Renaissance proportions fit in perfectly with neighbouring buildings on
Andrássy ut.
The façade of the building is decorated with statues of 16 of the world's greatest composers including Monteverdi, Mozart, Beethoven, Verdi, Bizet and Tchaikovsky. There are also representations of the muses of opera, together with sculptures of Franz Liszt and Ferenc Erkel (the composer of the Hungarian national anthem and director of the opera house when it opened in 1884) at ground level. The interior of the building is equally lavish. Karoly Lotz's frescoed ceiling in the main auditorium, which depicts 'Olympus, home of the Gods' is particularly breathtaking. What's more, over seven kilograms of gold were used to decorate the horseshoe shaped auditorium, which seats over 1200 people.
V. Kossuth Lajos tér, Metro:
M2 Kossuth Lajos tér, Tram 2, Website:
www.mkogy.hu/parl_en.htm (lists times for tours in
English, French, German, Russian, Hebrew, Japanese, Italian and Spanish),
Looking out from the vantage point of the Fisherman's Bastion across the Danube,
the flat Pest skyline between the Margaret bridge and Lánchíd is dominated by
only one building - the Országház (Houses of Parliament). This is the largest
Parliament in Europe.
Conceived and built for the millennium celebrations of 1896, the Imre Steindl design was only finished in 1902 (the year of his death). Inspired in part, by the Palace of Westminster, its white neo-gothic turrets and arches stretch for over 250 metres along the Danube embankment.
The building, which comprises of 691 rooms, immense halls and over 12.5 miles of corridors, has a central dome of 96-metres (precisely the same height as that of Szent István Basilica). Group excursions take place when Parliament is not in session, usually taking in the chamber of the former upper house (you can actually sit on the members benches). Each tour lasts approximately 40 minutes and flash/video photography is allowed. If you are an EU citizen and show your passport, you are granted a free tour ticket.
V. Ferenciek tere 10-11/Petőfi Sándor
utca 2-8,
M3 Ferenciek tere, Bus 7,
Although not the bustling place it once was, this elegant shopping arcade
(designed by Henrik Schmahl in 1913) is well-worth a visit, particularly as it's
just around the corner from Váci utca. The building, which was originally
commissioned by a savings bank, contains motifs, mosaics and ornaments of every
description, with fragile and intricate woodwork forming part of the roof
structure. Although criticized at the time for being too garish, it's a far cry
from the bleak functionality of today's Budapest malls.
I. Budavári palota, Várbus, Bus 16
The Royal Palace, which dominates the southern skyline of the Castle District,
shares a similar history to that of the Mátyás Templom, namely one of upheaval
and reconstruction. The building that stands today is a mock historic structure,
comprising of original features from the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.
The first royal residence on Castle Hill is said to have been constructed by Béla IV after the Mongol Invasion of 1241. Later, new sections were added by the Angevin kings before a much larger Gothic palace was established under the reign of Sigismund of Luxembourg (1387-1437). Considered even at this time to be one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe, the golden era of the palace complex came during the reign of King Matthias (1451-90). Widely seen as being one of the most extravagant, beautiful and important renaissance buildings of the time, nobleman, scholars and renaissance artists would journey here from all over Europe, encouraged (in no small part) by the prospect of receiving lavish treatment and hospitality from Queen Beatrice.
Despite suffering only minor structural damage during the lengthy period of Turkish occupation, it was completely destroyed by the pan-European Christian army which liberated Buda in 1686. During the early part of the 18th century, work commenced on a much smaller Baroque Palace, although by 1779 its overall size had increased significantly.
Less than a century later, the Palace was damaged again, this time during the 1848-49 War of Independence. The subsequent reconstruction work, which finished in 1904, more than doubled the size of the Palace from the original Gothic structure. Yet this was not the final episode in the Palace's turbulent history.
During World War II the building served as the command post for German occupying forces. In the final months of the war, the advancing Red Army besieged the Palace and, amidst fierce fighting, completely gutted the building. The present post war reconstruction, which includes Baroque and Gothic elements, now houses the Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum and the National Széchenyi Library.
XI. Gellérthegy (near to the Gellért
Hotel), Open: 8am-9pm daily, Admission free,
Cared for once again by the Hungarian Paulite order of monks, this unique Cave
Church was first dedicated in 1926. Having been expanded in the early thirties
by the Archbishop of Kalocsa to cope with large numbers of worshippers, it was
boarded up during the Communist era and only re-opened in 1989.
V. Szabadság tér, Metro:
M2 Kossuth tér
Although other Soviet statues and memorials in Budapest have been removed or
carted off to Statue Park, this monument remains as a genuine reminder of the
sacrifices made by Red army troops who died liberating Budapest in 1944/45.
Located within easy walking distance of Parliament, Imre Nagy's memorial statue and the Danube Embankment.
I. Disz tér, Várbusz, Bus 16
The statue stands at Disz Ter (or Parade Square). Although the name and statue
indicate a military function, this was in fact the site of a medieval market.
I. Budavári palota, Várbusz, Bus 16
Overlooking the Danube is the equestrian statue of Eugene of Savoy, commander of
the army that liberated Hungary from Turkish rule in 1686. The story goes that
the statue, which was originally commissioned by the townsfolk of Zenta, lay
unfinished until Alajos Hauszmann (who had been given the task of enlarging the
palace) persuaded King-Emperor Franz Joseph to raise funds to secure its future
along this part of the Castle wall.
I. Buda Palace, Wing F, Várbusz from
Metro
M2 Moszkva tér, Open 10am-4:30pm, Mon Tue, 10am-6pm
Wed-Fri, Website:
www.oszk.hu
Taking up several floors of the Royal Palace, this vast library is a mecca for
scholars, students and anyone else wanting information on Hungary. Every book
published in the country is catalogued and placed here, along with a mind
boggling collection of journals, newspapers and archive documents. If you're
conducting research, then it's probably best to ask for help in finding titles.
So long as you bring suitable ID (preferably a passport) the librarians (some of
whom speak English) are happy to oblige. As you can imagine though, finding
anything in a library this size does takes time! That said, if Count Ferenc
Széchényi were around today, he would no doubt be proud that the library bearing
his name is an unparalleled centre for learning about Hungary. Well-worth seeing
if you already plan to visit the Royal Palace.
V. Vértanúk tere (corner of Nádor/Vécsey/Báthory
utca), Metro:
M2 Kossuth tér
This fine bronze statue commemorates Imre Nagy, Prime Minister of Hungary
immediately prior to the 1956 uprising. Nagy, who had tried to introduce a more
relaxed form of Communism in the country (pulling away from Soviet domination)
took refuge in the Yugoslavian Embassy after the revolution had been crushed.
Then, after being given false assurances of safe passage by the Soviets, Nagy
was arrested as soon as he left the safety of the compound.
Tried and executed two years later (and quietly buried in an unmarked, overgrown corner of the main Budapest cemetery) Nagy's body was finally exhumed - and given a full state burial - following the country's move to parliamentary democracy in 1989. A national hero.
I. Szent Győrgy tér, Várbusz, Bus 16
Just next to the upper terminal of the Budavári Sikló is the magnificent Turul
Statue. This mythical Hungarian eagle, cast in bronze with wings outstretched,
is said to have sired Álmos the father of Árpád, who led the Magyar conquest of
the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century.
Tomb of Gül Buba (Gül Buba Türbéje)
II. Mecset utca 14, Tram 4, 6, Open 10am-4pm Tue-Sun, Metro: M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz, Website: www.btm.hu/Turbe/turbe.htm This tomb can be found mid-way up Mecset utca (street) in Buda and is the resting place of a respected dervish and wise man, whose Turkish name means father of roses. Although as leader of the Bektash Order, he died soon after the capture of Budapest in 1541, Gül Baba is credited with introducing roses to Budapest and this apparently led to the naming of the Roszadomb (Rose Hill) district. As the most northerly place of pilgrimage for those of Islamic faith, it is also Budapest's only surviving religious building from the occupying Turkish era.
XIV. Metro:
M1 Széchenyi fürdő, Trolleybus 70, 72, 75, 79, Bus, 4,
20, 30, 105
Originally constructed in 1896 as a temporary exhibit for the Hungarian
millennial celebrations, the castle proved so popular that it was eventually
replaced with an identical permanent structure.
The portcullis entrance is always popular with children - the eerie statue of Anonymous opposite the main entrance less so. Part of the building also now houses the city's Agricultural Museum.
I. Bécsi Kapu tér, Metro:
M2 Moszkva tér, Várbusz, Bus 16
Although the Vienna Gate that stands today is a replica of the 16th century
original, it nonetheless marks the traditional starting point to Budapest's
Castle District. The historic importance of the gate is reflected even in
everyday life, as a popular saying amongst parents of cheeky children is "your
mouth is as big as the Vienna Gate". Unfortunately though, it doesn't appear to
deter more adventurous youngsters from climbing on it during the summer.
Address as above
Despite being dominated by the huge National Archive building (Samu Pecz
1913-20), there are some fine examples of Baroque and Rococo architecture to
heighten the appeal of the square at No's. 5 and 6 and 7. Most famous is the
house at No.7 - the author Thomas Mann is said to have stayed here during
several visits to Hungary between 1935-36.
Állakerti út 14-16, Metro:
M1 Széchenyi fürdő, Trolleybus 72, 74, 75, Open:
Oct-Mar 10am-6pm Mon-Sun, Apr-Sep 10am-8pm Mon-Sun, Website:
www.vidampark.hu
Vidam park is an old fashioned amusement park with some of the attractions
dating back to pre-World War II times. So, if you're expecting a mini
Disneyworld or an Alton Towers, forget it, as this is very much a small scale
fun fair. It does, however, have a quaint feel to it with Victorian style
merry-go-rounds and a rather ropey looking wooden rollercoaster. The place is
slowly being modernized so this old charm will gradually disappear.
V. Vigadó utca 5, Metro:
M1 Vörösmarty tér, Website:
www.tabulas.hu
Although the acoustics of Budapest's second largest concert hall are sadly
lacking, the building itself, designed by Frigyes Feszl in 1859 makes a bold
impression along the Pest embankment. Built to replace another concert hall on
the same site (which was destroyed by fire in the 1848 War of Independence)
Feszl's Vigadó was also badly damaged, this time during World War II. The
post-war reconstruction, which took some thirty-six years to complete, remains
faithful to his original design and continues to attract leading conductors and
performers from around the world.
V. Metro:
M1 Vörösmarty tér
Named after the revered Hungarian poet and writer, Mihály Vörösmarty, the square
is centrally located just behind the major hotels on the Pest Embankment. Ede
Telc's marble statue of Vörösmarty, which dominates the middle of the square, is
flanked to the north by the Gerbeaud café and Váci utca. Starting with the first
week of Advent, this is where the major Christmas market is held.
It's a pleasant place to be during the summer, especially as there are no cars. The square's charming fountain, which features four water spitting lions, is invariably popular with children who try to squirt those who pass by.
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