See Budapest’s famous shopping street rejuvenated – PHOTOS

Renovations on the renowned shopping street of Budapest, Váci Street, and its surrounding area in the 5^th District of Budapest have been successfully concluded. With freshly planted trees, new bike racks, benches and meticulously laid paving, a truly liveable environment has been created for all to enjoy.

The 5^th District in the heart of Budapest is home to many of the most famous sights of the city, and as such, it welcomes countless tourists throughout the year, particularly during the vibrant summer months and the festive Christmas season.

Despite the district’s scenic allure, segments of the famed Váci Street were in dire need of rejuvenation. Therefore, in 2022, the City Council decided to invest in reviving the southern stretch of the shopping street, as well as of the adjacent smaller streets.

Photo: Belváros-Lipótváros Városfejlesztő Ltd.

As announced by magyarepitok.hu, the works were finalised this February, so now locals and travellers can enjoy the revitalised public spaces. This renovation initiative forms part of an ongoing urban revitalisation project within Budapest’s inner quarters. In addition to Váci Street, thoroughfares such as Nyáry Pál, Pintér, Sörház and Havas Streets, alongside the adjoining intersections of the shopping street from the north, have all been given a new appearance.

More greenery and modern walk spaces were added to the shopping street

Due to the dense public utility system of the downtown area, creating green spaces and planting trees is a difficult endeavour. Nonetheless, a chief priority during the upgrading process was to increase the amount of green space in the area. 46 new trees were planted either directly on the street or into planter boxes. The planter boxes have a dual purpose: not only do they keep growing saplings safe, but they also have seats connected to them, providing a room for passers-by to sit and relax for a moment in the shade of the new vegetation.

Photo: Belváros-Lipótváros Városfejlesztő Ltd.

“Our aim was to create small oases in the micro-spaces formed within the nooks adjoining passages that lead to Váci Street, therefore, we designed cooling points that improve the microclimate of Váci Street’s southern stretch” – said local representative Gábor Szentgyörgyvölgyi regarding the shopping street project.

Photo: Belváros-Lipótváros Városfejlesztő Ltd.

In essence, the developers aimed to create an environment that would not only be inviting for residents but also enticing for visitors. The renovations focused on the needs of residents and pedestrians: new street furniture, benches, bike racks and garbage bins were installed for the convenience of the locals and international tourists alike.

Photo: Mai Belváros / Facebook

A new, high-quality granite paving was laid, which is both visually pleasing and durable. Furthermore, curbs were raised to ensure a more even surface, prioritising accessibility along the bustling shopping street.

Photo: Mai Belváros / Facebook

The Lajtha Well operates in its full glory again

The Lajtha Well, nestled at the intersection of Váci and Havas Streets, has been bestowed with a new cover, enhancing its allure as a prominent feature of the locale. The limestone well, adorned with its exquisite bronze tap, now flows once more, radiating its former glory.

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Source: Magyar Építők, Belváros-Lipótváros Városfejlesztő Kft.