After many years of delays, Budapest’s controversial Biodome may finally open—with a twist
After years of political wrangling and financial setbacks, one of Budapest’s most controversial construction projects—the Biodome—may finally be put to use. Originally envisioned as a high-tech tropical attraction, the facility sat unfinished for years. Now, it seems it could open at last—though not quite as originally planned.
Construction of the Biodome, located within the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden, began in 2017 as part of the Liget Budapest Project. The ambitious plan aimed to create a one-of-a-kind facility in Europe, offering immersive experiences ranging from lush rainforests to ocean depths.
According to Népszava, costs quickly ballooned well beyond the initial HUF 15 billion budget, with expenditures now estimated to exceed HUF 100 billion. Since 2020, the structure has stood completed in shell only, with no animals or visitors ever utilising the space.
Years ago, the government withdrew further financial support, while the municipal government stated it could not fund the completion on its own. Now, there may be a breakthrough: the Budapest Zoo has announced plans to open the Biodome in 2025—not as a tropical paradise, but as a new home for some of its existing animals.
Under the new plan, a portion of the current animal population would be relocated into the modern and spacious facility, which would also be open to visitors. Operating in this integrated format would be more sustainable than maintaining a separate, high-cost attraction.
Meanwhile, questions remain about the future of the adjacent Capital Circus of Budapest. Long-standing plans called for a new circus arts center to be built behind the Biodome. The proposed multipurpose facility was slated to host contemporary circus acts, international performances, and educational activities.
Although the Ministry of Culture and Innovation previously stated the project was in the permitting phase, there have been no concrete updates since. The city’s current leadership opposes new construction in City Park, citing concerns over green space and environmental priorities.
The current circus building has become outdated over the decades. Technologically obsolete and lacking modern amenities, it no longer meets today’s expectations. Despite being Hungary’s premier venue for circus arts, the facility continues to await a much-needed renewal—a prospect that appears unlikely to top policymakers’ agendas any time soon.
City Park remains a focal point in ongoing debates over development and cultural preservation. While the Biodome may finally find a purpose and begin welcoming visitors, the envisioned new home for the Capital Circus remains no more than a plan. The question now is whether the park’s future can strike a lasting balance between cultural heritage and green space conservation.
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