architecture

24 hours in Budapest: Here’s how to make the most out of your day trip!

Top Hungary news Hungarian parliament Budapest 24 hours in Budapest

Undoubtedly, Budapest stands as one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals, brimming with history, culture, and charm. While 24 hours in Budapest might feel like a fleeting visit, it’s enough to experience the essence of this mesmerising city. From iconic landmarks to mouth-watering Hungarian delicacies, we’ve crafted a handy itinerary to help you savour every moment. While travel itineraries aren’t a one-size-fits-all, hopefully, you can get some inspiration from our article. Here’s how to make the most of your whirlwind adventure in the Hungarian capital.

Stunning views and amazing architecture

If you only have 24 hours in Budapest, you cannot miss out on the best views of the city and historical sites. For instance, you can begin your day exploring the historic Buda Castle a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering stunning city views. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Castle District and visit the Matthias Church, known for its vibrant tiled roof and Gothic splendour. Don’t miss the Fisherman’s Bastion, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Parliament Building and the Danube River.

Fisherman's Bastion, Budapest — Fisherman’s Bastion
Photo: depositphotos.com

Admire the Danube

Did you know that the Danube is Europe’s second-longest river? It stretches for approximately 2,850 kilometres (1,770 miles), making it the second-longest river in Europe after the Volga. The Danube flows through 10 countries, more than any other river in the world, including Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania.

Chain Bridge Budapest hungary news — The Chain Bridge
Photo: depositphotos.com

If you only have 24 hours in Budapest, a really fun way to explore the city is through a Danube River cruise. Whether it’s a daytime excursion or an evening ride with the city lights sparkling around you, this is an unforgettable way to see landmarks like the Chain Bridge, the Gellért Hill, and the Parliament Building from a unique perspective. However, if river cruises aren’t your cup of tea, you can just walk along the riverbanks of the Danube.

Explore the city and the local cuisine

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk down Andrássy Avenue, a grand boulevard lined with elegant buildings, luxury shops, and cafés. Visit the magnificent St. Stephen’s Basilica, where you can climb to the dome for a breathtaking view of the city. 24 hours in Budapest cannot pass without a tasty meal. Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant, savouring classic Hungarian dishes like goulash or stew. If you have a sweet tooth, you should not miss out on the iconic chimney cake! In addition, you can try pálinka, Hungary’s national drink. But beware, it’s not for the faint-hearted…

Hungarian goulash soup three days in Budapest — Goulash
Source: pixabay

Relax and take it easy

If you’re spending 24 hours in Budapest, taking time to relax is essential to truly experience the city’s charm. Budapest is renowned for its thermal baths, with the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Spa offering the perfect escape to unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters.

széchenyi thermal bath — The Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Source: szechenyibath.hu

Stroll through tranquil parks like Margaret Island, where the peaceful atmosphere provides a break from the bustling streets. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a cosy café or enjoying a leisurely Danube River cruise, relaxation in Budapest feels like a journey into the heart of Hungarian culture.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

January 28, 2025

VISUALS – Liget City Project received the green light in Budapest downtown: new apartments, offices, garages

According to the leadership of Erzsébetváros, Budapest’s 7th district, the area surrounded by the Rottenbiller Street – Damjanich Street – Bethlen Gábor Street – Dembinszky Street is a rust zone that needs renewal. Therefore, they would allow Liget City Projekt Ltd, the owner of the territory, to build new apartments, offices, and garages, creating new green spaces and renewing the buildings under monumental protection in the area. The gigantic Liget City Project will be one of Budapest’s biggest construction initiatives when it starts.

Gigantic Liget City Project given green light

According to Építészfórum, the local council of Erzsébetváros, Budapest’s 7th district, gave the green light to start the so-called Liget City Project. However, according to the district’s chief architect, Benedek Sólyom, that only means some legal work to unite the parcels and create an area for construction. Several political, public, etc. consultations will follow that step.

Péter Niedermüller, the district’s Democratic Coalition (former PM Gyurcsány’s party) mayor, said they aimed to renew that neglected zone and create buildings attracting new residents to move in. Therefore, the local council agreed to modify relevant agreements and unite the construction parcels.

The long-term plan is to create approximately 375 new apartments, 4,700 sqm of green spaces, 500 parking places in the garage, a new playground and EUR 800,000 paid by the investor to the local government as city development subsidy to renew neighbouring streets and create more green spaces.

The project already started before

The project started in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic brought it to a complete halt because public consultations could not be carried out. That’s what the local councillor of Színes Erzsébetváros (Colourful Elizabethtown) slammed in the first place after last year’s decision. Béla Lajos said the project’s socialisation and public consultations were unsuccessful.

Liget City Budapest rust belt zone — The current situation. Photo: PrtScr/FB Video Péter Niedermüller

The local representatives of PM Orbán’s Fidesz criticised the Liget City Project due to the low number of apartments and parking places planned to be built. They said there should be fewer office buildings and more apartments and garages available for the residents and future residents. They also said the investor should pay a higher city development subsidy.

According to Építészfórum, the area affected is 45 thousand sqm, and there would be a dormitory and several buildings for apartments, shops and offices, as well, which the mayor forgot to mention in his relevant post. The University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest is close to the project’s venue, which is probably why they plan to build a dormitory. They added that some of the buildings in the area are under monumental protection and, according to the plans, those would be renewed. The roofs of the new buildings would be green.

Designated as a “rust belt area”

The project received the green light with the support of the councillors of the DK-Momentum-Socialists-Dialogue for Hungary. Fidesz, the Hungarian Two-Tailed Dog Party and Színes Erzsébetváros did not support the plans. Péter Niedermüller and his coalition enjoy a solid majority in the city council, so we can expect the project to continue.

The rehabilitation of the area started in the summer of 2020 with the dismantling of several ruined store and office buildings on Rottenbiller Street. In July 2023, the Hungarian government designated the territory as a “rust belt action area”.

Read also:

The old Elisabeth Bridge in Budapest: one of the world’s most beautiful and longest chain bridges was demolished 80 years ago – read more HERE
Budapest mayor: busiest metro line may undergo major upgrade – details in THIS article

January 19, 2025

Semmelweis University’s timeless buildings are about to get a high-tech makeover – PICTURES!

Semmelweis University is set to undergo a transformative journey, combining the preservation of its historic city-centre buildings with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support education, research and healthcare. This ambitious project respects the architectural heritage of iconic sites while integrating cutting-edge facilities, ensuring that tradition becomes the foundation for future innovation.

Semmelweis University: modernisation strategy

According to Magyar Építők, the development of the two iconic city centre blocks of Semmelweis University will serve education, research and healthcare. The project aims to preserve the urban significance of the Semmelweis University buildings while providing modern infrastructure and the designers have paid particular attention to preserving the historic facades and restoring their original appearance, including the restoration of their colour scheme. The development is part of the Hőgyes-Schöpf-Merei Medical Research Centre, which has now received planning permission and is part of Semmelweis University’s overall modernisation strategy.

Semmelweis University TSPC Group — Source: Facebook / TSPC Group

New possibilities and reconstruction

The renovations are not just about improving the condition of the buildings, but also bringing new functions to life. The increased capacity of the Faculty of Pharmacy will enable the University to meet its own infusion needs and thus contribute more directly to health services. For both blocks, the investment will improve the conditions for teaching and research activities, as well as expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.

Due to the densely built-up inner-city environment, the project required particularly careful preparation. The WHB Group’s design team emphasised that the focus of the refurbishment was mainly on the reconstruction of existing buildings. Neglected properties of lesser value will be demolished and replaced by new, modern buildings. The conversion will increase the total floor area of the site to 20,679 square metres and the gross floor area to 26,745 square metres.

One of the priority sites is the block on Endre Hőgyes Street, which is already a training centre for pharmacists. Two additional storeys will be added to the building, allowing the designers to create a uniform cornice height on the street frontage. The interior of the building will also be renovated to provide modern teaching facilities and research laboratories.

The second site is the historic palace and courtyard building located near Bakats Square. The property has served many health and social functions throughout its long history, but is currently in a state of neglect. It will be completely renovated and returned to the health sector. In addition to the restoration of the original façade elements and decorations, the building will also feature a reconstruction of the clock tower in the rear wing, which will be restored to its original tower and form.

The exterior of the new parts of the building will have a brick red textured render to match the historic buildings. The facades will be enhanced by plastic plaster ornamentation and modern glazing, while unique shading elements will provide contemporary functionality. The facades of the original buildings will retain their patina and be restored to their original colours, paying homage to the past.

The Semmelweis development: tradition meets innovation

The project will be carried out in several phases. The first phase will involve the renovation of the Bakats Square block, followed by the reconstruction of other buildings and the integration of the whole area. The aim is to provide a world-class infrastructure for the full spectrum of Semmelweis University’s teaching, research and pharmaceutical manufacturing activities, while opening up future opportunities for innovation.

The development of Semmelweis University is an exemplary project that combines the preservation of historical values with the creation of modern functions. The modernisation of the city centre blocks will not only contribute to the development of university education and research but will also enrich the urban landscape. This type of investment shows how respect for the values of the past can become the basis for innovation in the future.

Read also:

December 17, 2024

Major renovation underway for Budapest’s historic Exchange Palace on Szabadság Square

Gránit Asset Management successfully closed the acquisition of the historical Exchange Palace (Tőzsdepalota in Hungarian) building in the heart of Budapest, Hungary, from private investors, for an undisclosed sum, in an asset deal. With this new venture, the long-vacant building can undergo a transformation and once again become a shining example of Budapest’s architectural heritage.

History of Exchange Palace

Exchange Palace is a monumental Beaux Arts building, completed in 1905, designed by the renowned architect Ignác Alpár, with ca. 50,000sqm total floor area. The building is located on the west side of Freedom Square (Szabadság tér in Hungarian) in the historical centre of District V in Budapest, only two blocks from the Hungarian Parliament, and just the opposite side of the square to the US Embassy. Since its completion it served as home to the Budapest Stock and Commodities Exchange, until World War II. Following the war, it became the headquarters of the Hungarian State Television until 2009. Exchange Palace is a listed historical monument under the protection of the National Heritage Authority.

New chapter for the landmark building

A private equity fund, managed by Gránit Asset Management, and the company owning the Exchange Palace building, represented by Andrea Suriano, senior manager of Futura Investment Management and Futura Funds SICAV- Kappa Fund and Canadian investor Michael D. Tippin, Founder of Tippin Corporation, successfully closed the transaction on December 12. The sale marks the beginning of a new chapter for the landmark building situated in the heart of Budapest, Hungary, on the famous Liberty Square. Gránit intends to redevelop Exchange Palace for a function and purpose which highlights its iconic architectural status, while preserving its historic characteristics.

“The successful sale of Exchange Palace marks an exciting milestone for all parties involved in the process. After overcoming numerous challenges to ensure the successful sale and reuse of Exchange Palace in the best interest of our limited partners and the City of Budapest, we are pleased to welcome Gránit Asset Management as our buyer, whose shared vision, experience in the local real asset markets and confidence in the project have been instrumental in bringing this transaction to fruition and finally, to completion” mentioned Alberto Matta and Andrea Suriano representatives of Cougar Real Estate SA, the majority shareholder of the Exchange Palace.

“Exchange Palace is in good hands with an esteemed Hungarian investor as its rightful new owner. I am confident Gránit will design and develop this truly extraordinary building to its fullest potential. Since 2006, Tippin Corporation, together with Futura Funds (2013), have been proud custodians of this famous Hungarian landmark. While not our original plan, the building became the set of many Hollywood feature films and promoted beautiful Budapest to the world. I’m delighted that our goal for Exchange Palace to be restored and returned to the Hungarian people will be realized,” said Michael D. Tippin.

“We always kept an eye on Exchange Palace waiting for the right time to quickly move and acquire this historic building in this excellent location. I am glad this moment finally came, and we were able to form a truly collaborative environment with the sellers. For Gránit Asset Management, investing in projects that offer long-term value to our investors has always been a primary objective, and this transaction aligns perfectly with that goal. One might think this transaction is a great achievement in light of its past, which is definitely true, however, for us, this is just the first step, and in fact the real journey is yet to come with creating a completely new design for Exchange Palace and executing its full restoration” added Álmos Mikesy, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Gránit Asset Management, representing the buyer. He continued: “The revitalization of this long-vacant building and its transformation into a commercially viable space will have a positive impact on the entire downtown area, boosting not only its architectural appeal but also its economic and tourism prospects.”

Throughout the due diligence and sales process, Gránit was advised by DLA Piper and Sentient. The sellers were represented by CMS Cameron McKenna, CBB law, CBRE and Cushman & Wakefield.

Sensational: Medieval church discovered beneath Visegrád tennis court reveals architectural masterpieces

In the spring of 2023, an unexpected discovery was made in Visegrád: the remains of the Church of the Virgin Mary, part of a medieval Franciscan monastery, were discovered under a tennis court. A collapsed crypt of the church’s sanctuary was found on the site, concealing unique late Gothic vaulting elements.

The archaeologists first used 3D scanning technology to document the excavated elements, and then began excavating them from the crypt. The resulting data allowed an authentic reconstruction of the shape of the former net vault, a milestone in the study of medieval architecture.

Visegrád Discovery Stephen Church — Source: Facebook / Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum

According to the Facebook page of the Hungarian National Museum, careful examination of the more than 100 stone elements recovered has led experts to conclude that the floor plan of the Visegrád sanctuary vault has not been completely lost. Based on medieval plans, they established that copies of the vault plans had survived in the archives of the building workshop of St Stephen’s Church in Vienna.

This unique discovery has given us the opportunity to get an accurate picture of the former state of the Visegrád sanctuary. The plans in the Vienna archives are a unique example of medieval architectural heritage, and the Visegrád remains, together with them, occupy an important place in the architectural history of Central Europe.

Identifying workers and craftsmen

The excavation of the Visegrád church has focused attention not only on the architectural elements, but also on the work of the stonemasons. On several pieces of stone, carefully engraved line drawings or carving marks were found, which identified the craftsmen. These marks were not only a guarantee of the quality of the work, but also the basis for the craftsmen’s wages. These marks are of particular importance to historians as they rarely allow the identification of specific master builders.

On the vaults of the Visegrád sanctuary, three stone carvings have been identified, which art historians attribute to Anton Pilgram. Pilgram, who was born in Brno and later became Master of the Chapter of St Stephen’s Church in Vienna, was one of the first ‘self-confident artistic geniuses’ in Central Europe. His work is documented in contemporary sources: between 1500 and 1511 he worked as a municipal master builder in Brno, before taking over the building of St Stephen’s in Vienna. He was also responsible for the church’s famous pulpit and richly decorated organ gallery.

One of Pilgram’s most important technical innovations was the construction of vaults made of curved ribs. According to the Visegrád vaulting elements, Pilgram worked as a stonemason on the vaulting of the Franciscan church sanctuary at the beginning of his career, between 1498 and 1500. This work was obviously very important for him, as he took his designs with him to Brno and then to Vienna, where he developed and applied them.

Visegrád Heritage: Past meets future

The results of the excavations have not only been an exciting discovery for archaeologists and art historians, but have also contributed to a renewed focus on the cultural heritage of the medieval town as part of the Visegrád Renaissance Development Programme. The reconstruction of the sanctuary vault of the Franciscan Church of Visegrád sheds light on a little-known but extremely important chapter in the history of architecture in Central Europe and is a fitting tribute to the artistic talent of Master Anton Pilgram. This discovery is not only a tribute to the past, but also a tribute to architectural innovation of value to both local and international communities.

Read also:

December 13, 2024

House frozen in time: Inside Pest County’s abandoned modern villa

An abandoned modern villa in Pest County recently captured the Hungarian urbex community’s attention. Many are curious to find out what forced this unique architectural gem’s owners to leave such an astonishing home to decay for eternity. The books and kitchen supplies left behind suggest that the family had to leave in a rush. Curious explorers ventured inside and found some papers that provided a possible background story of the luxurious villa covered in dust.

Abandoned villa in Pest County

As Pénzcentrum writes, urban exploration, or “urbex”, has grown into a popular movement centred on discovering and documenting forgotten, abandoned spaces. From decaying industrial complexes to forgotten homes, the allure of exploring these neglected sites lies in their eerie beauty and untold stories. In Pest County, one such discovery has captivated the Hungarian urbex community—a modern villa, abandoned yet half-furnished, standing as a ghostly reminder of a different time. With its striking architecture and luxurious touches still intact, this villa in Pest County once embodied wealth and success, but now it quietly decays, its grandeur slowly fading.

What happened?

This derelict villa in Pest County tells a broader story of Hungary’s housing crisis, a reflection of the economic hardships faced by many homeowners. According to documents found inside the villa, the owners took out a substantial loan of HUF 160 million (EUR 399,476) in 2011. Of course, we cannot be a hundred percent sure about what happened, but the economic context and the papers strongly suggest that the family could not keep up with paying back the loan.

Once a symbol of affluence, the villa now lies empty, much like other luxury estates that have met similar fates in recent years. As urban explorers wander its halls, the villa’s past echoes through its empty rooms—a forgotten dream left behind, caught in the quiet aftermath of financial ruin.

Urbex’s growing popularity

Urban exploration is not merely about visiting abandoned places; it is a form of cultural documentation that reflects societal changes and historical narratives. Each site holds layers of meaning—stories of families who lived there, economic shifts that led to abandonment, and even architectural styles that tell us about past trends. The villa in Pest County serves as a microcosm of these larger themes, inviting explorers to ponder not just what was lost but also what can be learned from these spaces. The shared interest in photography, history and adventure (of course) brings together these communities, thus it is also an opportunity to meet like-minded people.

Unique places left behind

In another post of spiral urbex, they share another example of neglect within urban landscapes, fire trucks lie abandoned in the yard of a fire station. Plans were once set in motion for their recovery; they were intended to be restored and displayed in a museum dedicated to fire service history. However, due to persistent funding shortages, these plans never materialised, leaving these vehicles exposed and vulnerable for years.

Read also:

October 22, 2024

5+1 abandoned buildings in Hungary you must see

Abandoned buildings possess a strange, almost mystical atmosphere. They are the remnants of bold dreams and ambitious plans, most of which were never completed due to financial or political reasons. These structures often crumble and slowly fall into disrepair. There are countless unfinished or abandoned buildings in Hungary that deserve a better fate. Architectural storyteller Dávid Zubreczki has compiled a collection of such structures for the new season of National Geographic’s “Abandoned Buildings” series.

Read the article in Hungarian on Helló Magyar: Elhagyott épületek Magyarországon: 5+1 roskadozó építmény, amit egyszer látnod kell

Hungarian Holy Land Church, Budapest

The gigantic torso of the Hungarian Church of the Holy Land (Magyar Szentföld-templom) in Veszprém has been abandoned for years in Buda. Designer Farkas Molnár envisioned a unique building – a massive space covered by an elliptical dome and surrounded by structures inspired by the chapels of the Holy Land. Construction began in 1940 but was halted by the war, and the architect passed away in 1945. The Communist regime halted further work in 1949. Later, the unfinished building was converted into a warehouse for the Municipal Archives, with many parts dismantled and destroyed.

Hungarian Holy Land Church/Magyar Szentföld-templom, Budapest, Hungary. Source: Wkipedia

Today, the slender concrete columns and the oval ring that circles the top remain dominant features. Although the Franciscan Order now owns the structure and ideas for its reuse surface regularly, its future remains uncertain.

Pogánytorony, Budapest

This curious structure is located at the end of Pogánytorony Street, named after it, on the Golden Hill in Budapest. It stands on private land, half-restored. There is perhaps no other tower in Budapest with such an unusual purpose. The hexagonal structure was erected by the Turanists in 1935 as a cultic site for what they believed to be an ancient Hungarian religion.

However, the Horthy regime did not look favourably upon the anti-Christian society, and it was banned in 1942. After the war, the abandoned building was used as an anti-aircraft observation tower, and following 1956, it reverted to private ownership. Today, its status is somewhat controversial: the municipality wishes to develop it as a tourist destination, but no agreement has yet been reached with the owner.

Gödöllő University Water Tower, Gödöllő

Although designed in the 1950s, its style is less reminiscent of “socreal” and more akin to northern European lighthouses. This is unsurprising as its architect, György Jánossy, studied in Denmark. The building was intended to function as a water tower, observatory, meteorological station, and lookout. At one time, it was thought to be the largest sundial in Europe.

The tower’s shadow was meant to cast across the lines of its fence, and alongside it, sculptors Géza Nagy and László Molnár carved the 12 signs of the zodiac, which would have told the time. Despite the care and precision with which it was built, the water tower never operated. By the time it was completed, it was no longer needed. Fortunately, this nationally protected industrial monument has not been abandoned, but to this day, no suitable function has been found for it.

Gyöngyös Synagogue, Gyöngyös

The tragic events of the twentieth century left Hungary with many empty synagogues, the largest of which is the Gyöngyös Synagogue, designed by the renowned Jewish architect Lipót Baumhorn. This vast building, completed in 1930, could seat 1,100 people. However, after the deportations, the town’s Jewish population had dwindled, and by the late 1950s, the state took control of the building. For many in Gyöngyös, the synagogue is still remembered as “the most beautiful furniture store in the country”, its last function before abandonment.

The synagogue has been vacant for many years, and while its renovation has been frequently discussed, it remains a difficult task. This summer, however, a small step forward was taken: 42 waste containers were reportedly removed from the site.

Read also: Abandoned for eternity: 5 spooky places in Hungary – PHOTOS, VIDEOS

Karancs Hotel, Salgótarján

Among the hotels in the city, Karancs Hotel in Salgótarján is perhaps the most iconic. Built in 1964, it was the first modern structure in the county seat. Its facilities and services rivalled those of hotels in the capital and around Lake Balaton, offering a bar, restaurant, and café. Its rooftop boasted a vast sun terrace with showers, which doubled as an open-air cinema in the evenings. The hotel’s brutalist raw concrete façade was unique in the country, and its interior featured a wealth of artistic works, including large ceramic mosaics, aluminium reliefs, and stained-glass windows.

Hotel Karancs, Salgótarján. Source: Wikipedia

The hotel fell into decline after the regime change. While shops still operate on the ground floor, its 84 rooms have stood empty for over two decades.

+1 Pagoda, Mátra

Far from any town, the “Mátra Association’s Kékesalja Lodge”, known to hikers as the Pagoda of Mátra, is a well-known haunted house. Its name (the “Mátra House”) has since become its symbol. Unsurprisingly, its design follows the popular form of East Asian Buddhist architecture. Designer István Medgyaszay sought to revive Hungarian architectural traditions by incorporating oriental motifs.

Beneath its ancient form lay a modern interior, a true “luxury tourist house” complete with hot and cold running water, a kitchen, electricity, a telephone, and a radio.

The architect even designed a darkroom for hikers to develop their photos. Despite its popularity in both summer and winter, the site closed after the turn of the millennium. Since then, fans of organic architecture and lovers of the Mátra have been waiting in vain for it to reopen.

Series: abandoned buildings in Hungary on Nat Geo

Across the world, there are many impressive architectural projects that, when successful, astound viewers, please users, and make designers and builders wealthy. However, some projects fail due to funding issues or political circumstances, leaving them abandoned and scarring their surroundings.

The 10th season of Abandoned Buildings explores stories behind these failed ventures, from Italian mafia rackets to American conspiracy theories, Croatian ghost towns, and Soviet propaganda sites. The series airs every Thursday at 9:00 pm on National Geographic.

Read also: Watch: green Trabant drives on railway tracks – VIDEO

October 15, 2024

VISUALS: 4 restored Budapest palaces to shine bright in the capital’s historic heart

Four Budapest palaces in the capital’s historic centre are being meticulously restored, with completion expected by 2026. The project is being carried out by Pyxis Nautica in partnership with the owner, Optinvest Ltd. Renovation of the Budapest palaces began two years ago, and the aim is to create architectural masterpieces that harmoniously blend 19th, 20th, and 21st-century elements. Here are some visuals of the project.

Four Budapest Palaces in downtown to serve as office buildings

According to 24.hu, the collaboration between the two firms commenced in 2022 with the restoration of the Wagner Palace, a one-storey building from the late 19th century that received a postmodern extension in the 1980s.

All four Budapest palaces, currently undergoing reconstruction or restoration, are partially listed buildings, so the developers are committed to preserving as much of their original appearance as possible. However, they also plan to increase the total usable floor area of the Budapest palaces and create a harmonious blend of architectural styles from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries.

Wagner Palace is located at 28 Molnár Street, near the Danube River and just a short distance from landmarks such as the Hungarian National Museum and Budapest’s Great Market Hall. You can read more about this building in our article HERE.

The future interior: Exceptional office space:

Wagner Palace was designed by Mór Kallina, the architect behind the Budai Vigadó, the Lutheran Church of the Buda Castle, and the Honvéd Főparancsnokság (the headquarters of the Hungarian Defence Forces). The latter is currently being rebuilt, and you can read more about it in THIS article.

The palace was constructed between 1887 and 1890 and is expected to reopen by the end of this year. Its original owner, György Mocsányi, sold it to Count Pál Festetics, whose daughter, Countess Vilma Georgina, intended it to be part of her dowry. She filed a lawsuit over ownership with her husband, the Gypsy violinist Rudi Nyári. The legal dispute lasted for ten years, but sadly, the countess died in childbirth before it concluded.

The court eventually ruled in favour of Count Festetics, who sold the palace after 1918. It then changed hands several times. At the time, the palace boasted fourteen rooms and an impressive marble hall. In 1990, an elevator was installed.

One of the Budapest palaces designed by Hungary’s first Olympic Gold medallist

In 2022, Máté Ede Dobos, the owner of Optinvest Ltd, and Tamás Tótszabó, the founder of Pyxis Nautica, said that they intend to preserve even the postmodern features of the Wagner Palace. The building is in relatively good condition and requires only minor modifications. The inner courtyard, currently covered by glass, will be transformed into a “downtown jungle” featuring banana trees and even small parrots, while the rooms will maintain a more traditional design.

By 2026, three more Budapest palaces will be restored. The Dreher Palace, which overlooks the tranquil Károlyi Garden, was originally built by one of the era’s leading piano manufacturers. However, the current facade was created in the 1920s at the request of the Dreher family, the renowned beer manufacturers, who used it as their winter residence. Remarkably, the facade was designed by Alfréd Hajós, Hungary’s first Olympic gold medallist (1896 – Athens, swimming, 100m freestyle and 1,200m freestyle).

swimmer, football, athlete — *Alfréd Hajós (born as Arnold Guttmann) Photo: Wikimedia Commons*

The Kincsem Palace, located on Reáltanoda Street, is named after Kincsem, the legendary Hungarian racehorse, whose life we covered in THIS article. The palace even had a marble stable for the horse. The architect was Gyula Bukovics, known for designing the Schossberger Castle in Tura and Hübner Garden. You can read more about the Schossberger Castle, which served as a film set in 2009, HERE.

The Almásy Palace, located at the corner of Szép and Reáltanoda Streets, was designed by Mihály Pollack, the architect of the Hungarian National Museum. The palace has survived both a fire and a bomb explosion, and experts have uncovered early 19th-century decorative paintings inside.

All four Budapest palaces will be repurposed as office buildings, preserving their historical significance while adapting them for modern use.

Read also:

Buda Castle is becoming more beautiful than ever – read more and check out the photos HERE
Hungarian Renaissance palace beautifully restored and open to visitors – photos and more details in THIS article

October 2, 2024

Impressive: Hungarian architects redesign historic centre of a Sicilian town

Hungarian architects have received huge recognition. A historic city centre far from Hungary has been redesigned

Hungarian architects have received significant recognition: a historic town far from Hungary has been redesigned. Bálint Kádár, a professor at the University of Technology, shares with Impress Magazin his experience of reimagining the centuries-old Baroque town centre of Mazzarino.

The Italian town of Mazzarino has selected a Hungarian design firm to redesign its historic centre. Bálint Kádár, Director of Architecture and Urbanism at DANU Engineering and Vice Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at BME, explains how the Hungarian architects managed to win a design competition in Sicily.

“First of all, there have been very few major design competitions funded by public money in Hungary for years—perhaps two or three annually at most—so we have to look abroad,” Kádár explained.

Winning such competitions is far from easy, even more so than gaining recognition. It is no coincidence that relatively few Hungarian companies seize such opportunities abroad, as success requires strong connections as well as expertise. In this case, it was crucial that Bálint Kádár has a deep familiarity with Italy—he speaks the language, studied architecture in Milan on an Erasmus scholarship, and maintains active projects with his department at Sapienza University in Rome, according to Impress Magazin.

Mazzarino: a beautiful, historic town

Even so, it is quite an achievement for Hungarian architects to be selected, given that the competitors were culturally embedded locals. Kádár also noted that this recognition is a tribute to the Department of Urban Studies at ÉPK, whose accumulated knowledge is competitive worldwide. In response to our questions, he mentioned that the Hungarian architects’ links with the academic world, both domestically and internationally, are crucial: “The name of BME carries weight.” The involvement of Italian Erasmus students studying in Hungary was also a significant advantage, without which, as he added, “this would not have happened.”

Of course, a small Italian town of 11,000 inhabitants could not afford to launch an international design competition on its own; however, municipalities there receive state support. Mazzarino, though, is “a surprisingly vibrant place, with a self-aware citizenry, a local intelligentsia, and a strong interest in preserving its historic character.”

The Hungarian architects at DANU took inspiration from the town’s history, believing it holds valuable lessons: the town’s golden age was when people primarily travelled on foot. Their task was to rethink the town’s Baroque axis, flanked by seven churches, with a concept aimed at creating a more liveable and usable space by removing cars from parts of the area.

Hungarian architects aimed to preserve the heritage

While showing respect for the built heritage, they have not hesitated to incorporate modern elements, such as parapets, new street furniture, a green wall, and a comprehensive rainwater harvesting system.

Remarkably, all of this work was done almost entirely remotely, without visiting the site in person at this stage. “Thirty years ago, this would have been unimaginable; even ten years ago, it would have been challenging, but now, with tools like Google Street View, it’s quite feasible,” Kádár remarked.

Read also:

Reviving Buda Castle Palace to become accessible – Breathtaking PICTURES
Budapest’s celestial guardian angel at Heroes’ Square to be removed and restored – PHOTOS

September 3, 2024

PHOTOS: Budapest’s celestial guardian angel at Heroes’ Square to be removed and restored

Archangel Gabriel, Budapest’s guardian angel, has been looking over some of the most beautiful parts of the capital for 123 years. Standing vigil for more than a century and witnessing history from the creation of the Heroes’ Square to the fall of Communism, the statue of the celestial being needs revamp due to its deteriorated state. Based on the plans, he will continue to watch over the city from next spring.

The Millenium Monument of the Heroes’ Square is one of the emblematic places in Hungary where many tourists pay a visit and take some selfies. The monument depicts some of the turning points of the Hungarian history in the Carpathian basin, from its conquest to the 1848-1849 freedom fight.

Budapest's iconic statue from the top of Heroes' Square removed — Photo: **depositphotos.com**

Watching over the square from the top of a Corinthian column is the artistic masterpiece of György Zala, the statue of Archangel Gabriel. Gabriel holds in its right hand the Holy Crown of Hungary while in the left, there is the Patriarchal cross, just as in the legendary dream of Saint Stephen, the first Christian king of Hungary who – based on the legend – received the Holy Crown from the pope.

The restoration of the 123-year-old sculpture began in July and will last 6-12 months depending on the internal state of the masterpiece. Though it is hard to measure its size from below, the statue is almost five metres high and has not undergone a major renovation since its installation in 1901 due to a lack of money. Moreover, it has not been removed from the top of the Corinthian column ruling over the square and the nearby buildings, including some embassies and the headquarters of Orbán’s Fidesz party.

Budapest's celestial guardian angel at Heroes' Square to be removed and restored — Photo: MTI

Budapest’s guardian angel to be removed soon

Városliget Ltd. already scaffolded the statue and the column. Thus, experts could start their inspection and 3D scanning. As a result, we would have a detailed database of the damages. 24.hu could not say when Budapest’s guardian angel would be removed from its Corinthian pedestal.

The Corinthian column hosting the statue is 36 meters tall, the archangel statue was placed on the top on 24 October 1901. Between 1995 and 1996, preparing for the millecentenary (Conquest of the Carpathian Basin – 896), the government repaired the statue’s surface but lacked the money to carry out structural restorations. In 2021, before the International Eucharistic Congress, the statue was cleaned. That is when experts found the damage to the copper sculpture.

Read also:

The symbolic meaning of the Heroes’ Square in Budapest – PHOTOS and more HERE
Did you know?! – 5 interesting facts about Budapest’s iconic spot, the Heroes’ Square

August 28, 2024

Renovation of Hungary’s earliest stone castle on top of volcano cone continues: it looks marvellous – PHOTOS

The renovation of one of Hungary’s earliest stone castles ruling the nearby valleys and the Zemplén Mountains from a volcano top, the Castle of Füzér, continues with the project’s third phase. The subcontractor has already been selected. Check out some photos of the magnificent castle in our article below.

One of the castle’s ladies was the “Hungarian female Dracula”

The Castle of Füzér is one of our most unique heritage. The stronghold is on top of a 522-metre-high hill, proudly standing on a volcano cone. Moreover, it is one of Hungary’s oldest stone castles.

The castle was built in the beginning of the 13th century. After the lost Battle of Mohács, marking the end of the Medieval Kingdom of Hungary (1526), the Holy Crown of Hungary was kept within its walls since Péter Perényi, the crown guard, brought it here after the coronation of János Szapolyai. It remained in the castle for almost a year.

Hungarian aristocrats owned the castle. Some bore historic names like the Báthory, Nádasdy and Károlyi families. In the 17th century, one of its owners was Elizabeth Báthory, the so-called Hungarian “female Dracula”, who was believed to have bathed in blood. We wrote about the horror stories surrounding her in THIS article.

Elizabeth Báthory, portrait, history — https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/73/Elizabeth_Bathory_Portrait.jpg

Hungary’s earliest stone castle being rebuilt step by step

In 1676, the Austrian Army purged the fort, and people living in the nearby valleys began to use its stones as building materials. Its revival started after 1990 when historians excavated its entire territory, Magyar Építők wrote. HERE you may read the story of the castle.

The Lower Castle was rebuilt between 2012 and 2015, and a visitors’ trail was created. Afterwards, the Gothic-style chapel of the Upper Castle was rebuilt. Then the Palace Wing, the cellar, the attic and the Lower Bastion were next.

In the second phase, they rebuilt the Kitchen and the Bakery House. In the third phase, the LAKI Épületszobrász Ltd. will rebuild the Gate Tower, the Steward’s House, the Clock Tower and the prison. Moreover, they will strengthen the castle’s walls and cover the castle garden. The cost reaches HUF 3,98 billion (EUR 10 million).

HERE you may read how you can visit the castle.

Read also:

Fancy buying a castle in Hungary on a budget? Here’s your opportunity – PHOTOS and more in THIS article
Splendidly restored Hungarian castle inaugurated – read more HERE

August 7, 2024

PHOTOS: Hiding in plain sight – newest Hello Wood CLT house in Hungary

Tucked away in the lush rural landscapes of Hungary, there’s a marvel of modern architecture that’s as mysterious as it is magnificent. It’s a creation by Hello Wood, a retreat that’s one with the earth, literally. This isn’t just a house; it’s a statement, a sanctuary, a whisper in the woods that speaks volumes about design and harmony.

Imagine a house that plays hide and seek with you, dug into a mound, peeking out just enough to blend with the horizon. Its green rooftop, a canvas of nature’s artistry, isn’t just for show; it’s a living, breathing part of the landscape. The house stretches out with a 135 square-meter terrace on the water’s edge, making the wooden floors the best place for every sunrise and sunset.

The house offers 2 rooms, one complete with a living area, a snug bedroom, a sleek kitchen, and a bathroom that’s all clean lines and quiet luxury. The guest room offers a quiet place for visitors to cozy up and forget their daily life.

Linking these spaces is a summer kitchen, roofed and cozy, with a furnace like a shark fin slicing through the air — a sculptural sentinel watching over this nest. And let’s talk about the materials, shall we? The cross-laminated timber gives strength and soul to the structure, while the wooden facade’s surface is treated with the yakisugi method, an ancient technique that teases out a charcoal beauty, ensuring the house stands the test of time and taste.

The meticulous detail Hello Wood has poured into every inch is evident. The concrete, molded with leftover wood, bears the texture of the beams. The huge glass windows and doors open wide to the world outside, drawing in light and life.

This house is not just built; it’s crafted, it’s considered, it’s Hello Wood’s love letter to architecture, nature, and innovation. It’s a place where memories will be made and peace will be as palpable as the wood grain under your fingers. It’s where the fish in the pond are your only audience, and the stars, your nightly canopy. Here, architecture doesn’t just meet nature; it melds with it, in an embrace as old as time. Welcome to Hello Wood’s latest symphony in wood and wonder.

Here is a video of the house:

Read also:

Hungarian company designs futuristic buildings that blend into nature – PHOTOS and details in THIS article
Hello Wood: 11-metre Sleigh Christmas Tree At The Palace Of Arts Budapest

July 3, 2024

PHOTOS: Grotesque decorations placed on Buda Castle’s iconic building

Grotesque decorations were placed on the magnificent dome of the Headquarters of the Hungarian Red Cross in Buda Castle.

Grotesque ornaments decorate this Buda Castle building

According to the official Facebook page of the National Hauszmann Programme, putting the grotesque masks back to their original places this week was the final phase of rebuilding the headquarters’ roof. Four ornaments decorate the dome structure from the outside, and each was created from 32 Rheinzink plates squeezed. It might sound incredible, but it took six months to produce one 140 cm wide and 170 cm high ornament.

Recreating these unique tin plates required exceptional accuracy since they had to fit perfectly with the dome structure. Furthermore, it was a challenge that nobody had a detailed plan for the original decoration masks. But an old photo helped the designers. Using that, they could recreate all four elements in their original beauty.

Grotesque ornaments were popular in ancient cultures. They aimed to scare evil spirits and non-desired guests. Therefore, such structures were placed on the building facades. The Renaissance and the Historic styles used these kinds of decorations again but without the original meaning, only due to their aesthetics.

Soviet siege damaged the original building

The Headquarters of the Hungarian Red Cross’ designers were Alajos Hauszmann and his son-in-law, Dezső Hültl. The magnificent building was damaged during the brutal Soviet siege of Budapest between December 1944 and February 1945. Only a few people know that the siege was the third biggest after Leningrad (Saint Petersburg) and Stalingrad (Volgograd) in WWII and destroyed the original lookout of the Hungarian capital.

Originally, Budapest was much more decorated, but the Soviet-imposed Communist leadership did not spend money to reestablish the bridges, buildings, and streets to their original form. Instead, they used cheaper materials. For example, they rebuilt the Buda Castle. However, the recreation followed a minimalist style compared to the richly-decorated original.

war castle budapest destruction — *The destroyed Buda Castle in February 1945. Photo: Fortepan*

Original exterior, modern interior

The Headquarters of the Hungarian Red Cross had an even more tragic story. Despite the damages it suffered from the Soviet and American bombs, it could have been preserved. However, the political leadership dominated by the Communists decided to dismantle it.

The new headquarters building will serve as an office building. It will appear as the original, but inside (interior design, engineering), it will have the latest solution. The exterior will be ready this year.

Read also:

Buda Royal Palace renovation in spectacular phase, entire walls being rebuilt – PHOTOS and details in THIS article
This Budapest street is one of the world’s 20 most beautiful – Details in THIS article

June 2, 2024

5+1 fun facts about Hungary – Some may come as a surprise

fun facts about hungary parliament europe credit

Dive into the heart of Central Europe with our captivating exploration of Hungary and its people. This colourful country has many faces, thus you might want to learn some fun facts about Hungary. Join us as we unveil 5+1 enchanting facts that reveal why Hungary is truly a treasure trove of delights waiting to be discovered.

1. Thermal water

Hungary might not have ocean or sea access, however, this does not mean that Hungarians miss out on fun water activities. It may be shocking to learn that Hungary has over 1,300 thermal springs. Due to a geographical fender-bender, Budapest itself has over 100 springs alone.

heviz hungary baths — Source: commons.wikimedia.org

2. Iconic parliament building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is not only a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture but also one of the largest parliamentary buildings in the world. An interesting fact about it is that its design holds a unique historical symmetry: the building has 691 rooms and a remarkable 20 kilometres of stairs. What makes it even more fascinating is that during its construction, which started in 1885 and was completed in 1904, about 40 million bricks, half a million precious stones, and 40 kilograms of gold were used.

hungary budapest night parliament — Budapest, Hungary. Source: depositphotos.com

3. Weird language

One of the commonly known facts about Hungary is that the people living here have their own language. Hungarian might sound weird or highly unusual to speakers of other languages primarily because it belongs to the Finno-Ugric language family. Thus, it is one of the few European languages that do not have an Indo-European origin. Some say that it is one of the hardest languages to master in the world.

4. Formula 1

The Hungarian Formula 1 Grand Prix has been held annually at the Hungaroring near Budapest since 1986, making it one of the oldest places in Eastern Europe to host the competition. It was the first race track behind the Iron Curtain. What is even more shocking regarding this fun fact about Hungary is that it was built in record time, in just 8 months.

5. The ultimate cure for everything

Fun fact: Hungarians have found the cure for all diseases. Some believe that the country’s national alcohol, pálinka, is a powerful remedy for headaches, menstrual pain, stress, and every disease known to humankind. There is a Hungarian saying: “Pálinka is a medicine in small quantities, a cure in large quantities.”

6. Checkmate

It is one of the lesser-known facts about Hungary that the country is home to an outstanding chess legend. Judit Polgár is widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time and the strongest female chess player ever. She achieved a historic breakthrough in the traditionally male-dominated world of competitive chess, redefining perceptions about gender and intellectual prowess in the game. Judit earned the title of Grandmaster at the age of 15 in 1991, at the time the youngest to have achieved this distinction.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

May 5, 2024

New European Bauhaus: Hungarian project receives EU prize

The European Commission said on Monday that Hungary’s Cooperative Ownership for Communities project has been selected to receive one of this year’s prizes under the European Union’s New European Bauhaus initiative.

The initiative’s Rising Stars prize has gone to the project for its development concept, which aims to create a multi-functional cooperative space from a brownfield site in Budapest.

According to the EC’s statement, the prizes are recognized for “exceptional projects contributing to a more sustainable, inclusive and beautiful future”.

The statement said 19 other projects have received this year’s prizes, selected from 49 finalists. The honours are worth up to 30,000 euros each.

The statement said that since the initiative was launched in 2020, it has helped some 500 targeted projects in EU members in the areas of research and innovation, cohesion, regional and urban development, training, and culture.

Information on the Hungarian application can be found here.

You can re-watch the Awards Ceremony by clicking here.

World’s longest rope bridge will soon be inaugurated in Hungary – photos

The inauguration of the world’s longest rope bridge is a matter of great anticipation. Now, new pictures have been taken, showing the bridge of National Unity.

Near Sátoraljaújhely, the 700-metre-long rope bridge will connect Szár Hill and Vár Hill, held aloft by six steel cables. This landmark structure will put Hungary in the Guinness World Records.

A few kilometres from the Slovakian border in eastern Hungary, the bridge that weighs hundreds of tonnes is being built as a tourist attraction. It will undoubtedly be a challenge for tourists who are afraid of heights to cross the bridge, but it is reassuring that the bridge will be so stable that it will not swing out of place even in high winds. According to VG, the centre of the bridge will be covered with large glass panels, increasing the sense of space.

Unexpectedly, the Czechs have also entered the ‘competition’, having built a 721-meter-long cable-stayed bridge in Dolni Morava, which exceeds the size of the Hungarian bridge. However, the Czech architects have included the fixed, double-sided ground walkway in the length of the bridge, so the Hungarian cable-stayed bridge will end up being longer.

Luxurious Mini-Dubai in Budapest: Europe’s tallest tower and a shopping mall underway

At the forefront of the project dubbed Mini-Dubai, Emirati entrepreneur Mohamed Alabbar, owner of Eagle Hills Properties and the visionary behind the new five-billion-euro district planned for Rákosrendező, given his first statement on the details of venture.

The Khaleej Times reports not only on Europe’s tallest tower but also on a planned shopping centre and the development of a partly abandoned railway station.

Mini-Dubai project specifics

The mini-Dubai plans are attracting considerable attention, as investor Mohamed Alabbar was previously the builder of the world’s tallest and most famous building, the 828-metre Burj Khalifa.

“Eagle Hills Properties is excited about the opportunities that Hungary offers, a country known for its significant potential and rich cultural heritage. We are truly honoured to partner with them on this significant development,” said Mohamed Alabbar, President of Eagle Hills Group.

Alabbar said the project goes beyond mere real estate investment. It also shows their deep respect and admiration for Hungary’s historical significance, cultural life and future ambitions. He said the project will not only meet but surpass expectations.

Challenges ahead

As we previously reported, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó had talks with UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Tani bin Ahmed al-Zejudi last Wednesday, during which the Foreign Minister hailed the development as a “flagship project”. Szijjártó remarked, “This vast urban development initiative will not only invigorate cooperation between our two nations but also propel the evolution of Budapest. It represents not merely a new, contemporary urban precinct but also a comprehensive urban development endeavour encompassing tourism, commerce, economics, and athletics.” Further details can be found HERE – Mini-Dubai: Hungary signs cooperation pact with UAE, EUR 5 billion

However, the plan, subsequently dubbed mini-Dubai or maxi-Dubai, has not garnered unanimous approval from the capital and its surroundings, with demands for multi-billion infrastructure enhancements in exchange. Nonetheless, site clearance has already begun.

Read also: Burj Khalifa is astonishing in the Hungarian national colours again – VIDEO

March 19, 2024

Breathtaking PICTURES: Reviving Buda Castle Palace to become accessible

Thanks to the National Hauszmann Programme (Nemzeti Hauszmann Program), the Buda Castle Palace (Budavári Palota) will soon shine in its former glory. As part of the programme, the palace will soon be restored to its original appearance, most of its interior will be rebuilt and parts of the building will soon be accessible.

The Buda Castle Palace suffered extensive damage in WWII

The Buda Castle Palace, designed by Alajos Hauszmann in the neo-Baroque-Art Nouveau style, was completed at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Its ornate exterior and interior, its vastness and its unrivalled location made it one of the most ornate royal residences in Europe, the National Hauszmann Programme wrote on its Facebook page.

During the Second World War, the building suffered extensive damage. The remaining decorations were stripped and the palace was rebuilt in a simplified form from the 1960s onwards. All over Europe, the trauma of WWII was almost immediately compensated for by replacing the destroyed architecture. However, the communist leadership in Hungary wanted to erase the past for good, the post writes.

Accordingly, the Buda Castle Palace was given new functions later. It became the home of the Hungarian Labour Movement Museum (Magyar Munkásmozgalmi Múzeum), the Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria), the Budapest History Museum (Budapesti Történeti Múzeum) and the National Széchényi Library (Országos Széchényi Könyvtár).

The previously unified building complex had been split into several small, independent wings, each with its own entrances and internal infrastructure. The individual buildings are still marked with letters, but these do not indicate any internal content.

Reconstructed interiors, re-accessible parts of the building

As part of the National Hauszmann Programme, the palace will soon be restored to its original appearance, and much of its interior will be rebuilt. The enfilade, a series of halls that run around the first floor and interconnect for several hundred metres, will also be reborn.

This will make the dismantled parts of the building passable and accessible again.

In addition to the restored historic and sacred spaces, the Buda Castle Palace will offer an exciting programme of temporary exhibitions, art galleries, cafés, gift and book shops, a children’s world, a family centre and educational spaces.

The reconstruction work continues from Szent György Square, after the southern connecting wing was opened in August 2021. Work is already underway on the reconstruction of the north wing on Szent György Square, from where it will progress steadily southwards.

Work will soon begin on the Ballroom Wing, and plans are already underway to renovate the Dome Wing, the Baroque Wing and the South Wing. The latter will become the Palace’s education centre. The historic renovation will eventually be completed with the wing in Krisztinaváros (a part of Budapest in districts I and XII).

Read also:

March 7, 2024