PHOTOS: Unique artifacts unearthed at Buda Castle during restoration efforts

During the ongoing restoration of Buda Castle by the National Hauszmann Programme, new relics from the era of renowned architect Alajos Hauszmann have been uncovered. Workers stumbled upon remnants of the original flooring from the late 19th and early 20th centuries on the ground floor of the castle’s northern wing. These beautifully crafted tiles were produced in the workshop of József Walla, a prominent manufacturer based in Budapest. The geometric patterns and vibrant colours, featuring motifs such as meanders and running dogs, were found in the kitchen areas of the porter’s and parish clerk’s apartments, located on the riverside of the building. Similar tiles were also discovered in nearby corridors and restrooms.

Walla József’s legacy

József Walla, originally from Moravia, was a leading figure in Hungary’s cement-based building materials industry, the National Hauszmann Programme wrote on Facebook. His decorative flooring was used not only in Buda Castle but also in Budapest’s grand apartment buildings, private mansions, railway stations, markets, and even the Hungarian Parliament. His work gained national recognition at the 1896 Millennium Exhibition, and in 1904, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Franz Joseph for his contributions to industry.

Rediscovering historic walls

In addition to the flooring, three unique wall sections were found at the excavation site. These walls were created by the company of Antal Detoma, a master stucco worker who applied a specialised sand-lime mortar technique in 1901. These original walls once adorned the vestibule and the covered courtyard behind the northern wing’s main entrance from Szent György Square. The recent discovery of these walls is particularly significant as it offers a rare glimpse into the original colour, material, and texture of the palace’s interior walls—information that was previously impossible to confirm due to the lack of colour photography. Like Walla, Detoma was a distinguished craftsman of his time, contributing exquisite faux-marble work to the palace’s grandest and most important halls.

Photo: Facebook/Nemzeti Hauszmann Program

Preservation and restoration progress

The historic restoration of Buda Castle is progressing as planned. The sections of the northern wing that were modified during the communist era have now been removed, allowing for a faithful reconstruction of the palace as designed by Hauszmann. Special care is being taken to preserve and collect valuable architectural elements and structures that have survived.

The National Hauszmann Program aims to restore Buda Castle to its former glory, reflecting its appearance during its golden age at the turn of the 20th century. As part of the project, the castle will regain its original façade, roof, and portions of its interior. Following the reopening of St. Stephen’s Hall in August 2021, the restoration continues with work focused on the area near Szent György Square.

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