MAIN SIGHTS of the CITYParliament
Built at the turn of the century, the building of the Parliament (home of the Holy
Hungarian Crown and the coronation insignia) quickly became a dominant sight and symbol of
Budapest and the Danube panorama. It is one of the most decorative structures of the
capital. It also ranks as one of the biggest national assemblies in the world.
St Stephen Basilica
The largest church of the capital (seating 8,500 persons) was finally consecrated in 1905.
From the unique 360-degree circular lookout you can admire Budapest from a height of 65
meters. The basilica was dedicated by King St. Stephen- founder of the Hungarian State and
Christian Church in Hungary.
State Opera House
Budapest is proud of possessing one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world. The
first director was Ferenc Erkel, Gustav Mahler held this post for several years, and
Puccini directed the premiere of two of his operas here. It is still one of the best opera
houses in Europe. Well worth a visit, even for those who do not especially like operas.
Castle district
The name Buda Castle covers more than a castle or the Royal Palace in the
capital city; it extends to the historical quarter full of sites. The medieval palace that
stood here was destroyed during the battles against Turkish
invaders, leaving only the fortified walls as a memento. The site was then filled in to
lay the foundations of the new grandiose Baroque palace started by Maria-Theresa and
expanded on Hungarian initiative in the 19th century.
Fisherman’s
bastion
Completed in 1905 on the site of a former fish market - this is where the name comes from.
It has never served a defensive purpose: it is an excellent lookout place. The cityscape
opening up from there, including the Fishermen's Bastion, has been part of UNESCO's World
Heritage since 1988.
Matthias
Church
The church bears the name of its biggest Maecenas, King Matthias, who married twice in
this shrine. The cathedral is almost as old as the Royal Palace and has been the venue of
several coronation ceremonies. Every king and époque left its mark on the building until
the Turks occupied Buda in 1541 and converted the temple into a mosque, whitewashing - and
thus preserving - its medieval frescos.
Gellért
Hill
The hill (that some believe used to be the meeting place of witches) today offers the most
beautiful panoramic view of the city. The terraces of the Citadel built on the hilltop
offer the best view of the city, and telescopes help one to catch all the details. It was
built by the Austrians after the repression of the 1848-1849 War of Independence to
provide military control over the town.
Hungarian National Museum
The museum is one of the finest examples of Hungarian Classicism. Hungarian history is
presented from the foundation of the state up until 1990. The Hungarian Holy Crown and the
Crown Jewels was seen here, but on 1 of January 2000 were moved to the Parliament.
Downtown
The city centre is located where the medieval town of Pest used to be; however, it
reflects the atmosphere of the turn-of-the-century metropolis. The city centre encompasses
Vörösmarty Square, the Municipal Concert Hall, the Inner City Parish Church and
Ferenciek Square.
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