More than a tourist attraction: a guide to the Hungarian Parliament’s neighbourhood
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In this article, we will explore the not-so-direct neighbourhood of the Parliament, one of the most well-known buildings of Hungarian architecture, history and a famous 21st-century sight. Although the Parliament itself is in the centre of almost all guided tours, most tourists and expats in Hungary do not know much about the district.
History
The Parliament is situated in Kossuth Lajos square, „the square of the nation” in district V. The square has been named after the famous Hungarian political reformer, Lajos Kossuth, who inspired thinkers in the revolutionary period of 1848-49 and afterwards. The history of the 5th district goes back even to ancient times, mainly because it is well-located at the shore of the Danube.
During Roman times, a Roman fortress has stood at the square which we now call the 15th March square – named after another historical period of Hungarian history.
Ever since, the district has filled the role of a commercial, political and economic centre for the city. In the 21st century, it occupies a central place among the capital’s touristic attractions, but there is definitely more to it than that.
The building of the Parliament “blends elements and motifs of various architectural styles: its floor plan is Baroque, the façade ornamentation evokes the world of Gothic, and the decoration of the ceiling shows stylistic elements of the Renaissance”, as the official website states. You can purchase tickets to the Visitors’ centre here. The sight can be accessed via Metro Line 2 and Tram Line 2 at the Kossuth Lajos square directly, and from many other stops indirectly via walk. If you are interested in the detailed history of the Parliament, take a look at one of our former article here.
Public transport
Tram Line 2 is available for the enthusiastic tourists wishing to discover the lively district of the Parliament. The tram line that perfectly escorts the curious crowds along River Danube has been among the most beautiful tram lines on National Geographic’s list for a reason.
