Demolished Buda Castle Honvéd Headquarters’ stunning rebirth – photos
The devastation of the Second World War, followed by the brutal communist regime, wreaked havoc on Budapest’s architectural masterpieces. The Honvéd Headquarters building in Buda Castle suffered severe damage during the war, only to be demolished later for ideological reasons rather than rebuilt. Reconstruction began a few years ago, and the project has now entered a jaw-dropping new phase.
Ornate Corinthian capitals to support the pediment
A striking new render reveals how the reborn Honvéd Headquarters façade will feature a grand pediment, proudly supported by four towering pilasters. Each massive column is crowned with an exquisite Corinthian capital, with their bases rising to first-floor level. These intricately carved stone elements have now been hoisted into place, marking another major milestone in the construction process.
- The Hungarian Parliament building: Budapest’s architectural icon worth exploring – a 2025 guide
Under the National Hauszmann Programme, reconstruction began in March 2022 to resurrect the building on Dísz Square, which was badly damaged during the Second World War and later dismantled under communist rule instead of being restored. Designed by Mór Kallina, the original building was completed in just three years, between 1879 and 1882. The current reconstruction faithfully restores its historic grandeur and will eventually house the Military History Institute and Museum.
Dome to offer breathtaking views from Buda Castle
With the 4.2-tonne pilaster capitals—expertly carved from Süttő limestone—now in position, work on the pediment and its sculptures can begin early next year. “The pediment and its artworks are complete and currently in storage, awaiting installation in the first half of next year,” the National Hauszmann Programme announced on Facebook.
- 5 astonishing buildings in Budapest and the history behind them
Once completed, the building will open its doors to visitors. This will include access to the newly installed dome, which will offer sweeping panoramic views over both the Buda and Pest sides of the city.
PM Orbán’s friend is rebuilding the palace
The contractor for the Honvéd Headquarters reconstruction in Buda Castle is Fejér B.Á.L. Zrt., the family company of Hungary’s richest man, Lőrinc Mészáros. The same firm is also responsible for general contracting work on the Orbán family’s lavish estate in Hatvanpuszta. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Mészáros are reportedly close associates, with Mészáros’s companies having risen rapidly, largely through state contracts awarded following the 2010 change of government.
According to data from 2021, the reconstruction is expected to cost at least 33.67 billion forints.
Read also:
- Discover Buda Castle: A majestic landmark in the heart of Budapest – a 2025 guide
Click for more architecture-related articles.