BUDAPEST Ildikรณ Kolozsvรกri Istvรกn Tutunzis
CasteloArt Publishing
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UNESCO World Heritage Budapest is one of the most beautifully situated cities in the world. The plains of Pest along with the hills and mountains of Buda , united by the River Danube produces a unique panorama. In addition to aesthetic assets, Budapest also boasts many historical treasures. One can find remains from the settlement of the ancient Roman Aquincum, buildings, baths constructed and reconstructed during the Ottoman occupation, churches, museums built during the reign of the Hapsburgs and numerous other beautiful and interesting sights, which spectacularly demonstrate various historical periods of the capital city.
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The Parliament Over centuries the descendants of the conquering leader, Árpád, enacted laws without having a permanent house for the Hungarian parliament. After the 1848 revolution, the dynamically altered nation began to feel the need for the change of the situation. Thus, in 1882 a competition was announced to design a building that would house the parliament, which was won by Imre Steindl. Three years later on the 12th of October, the works began on Lipótváros’ Tömlő square. 7
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The Parliament This was the biggest investment of the time, and for seventeen years nearly a thousand people worked on it. As there was a wish to undertake the project with Hungarian materials and a Hungarian workforce if possible, entire branches of industry were revived by this initiative. In this building with an internal volume of 473 000 cubic metres, 90 exterior and 152 interior statues stand tall on the walls. The building has 27 doors, and inside 29 staircases enable movement between the levels.
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The Parliament The building is 268 m long, 123 m wide and 96 m high, and there are more than 200 offices accommodated. It has become a structural representative of the capital of our homeland. Passing through the northern lounge, opposite the chamber/hall of the House (it once was the conference room of the Lower House) in the northern annex, we reach the conference room of the Upper House. This is often used for housing international conferences. 10
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Kossuth Square The equestrian statue of Gyula Andrássy is found at the South side of the square, the István Tisza memorial was placed at the North side of the square and the Lajos Kossuth monument lines the North part of the square’s centre. The underground Visitor Centre serves approximately half a million parliament visitors every year. It is the entrance to the Museum of the National Assembly’s exhibition presenting the history of Hungarian national assemblies and parliamentarism. 13
Shoes on the Danube bank Shoes on the Danube Bank is a Holocaust memorial in Budapest. It commemorates the victims of the Arrow Cross Party’s regime who were shot into the river. It was conceived by film director Can Togay and co-created by Kossuth Prize winner sculptor Gyula Pauer. The memorial was erected on 16th April 2005.
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Margaret Bridge The Margaret Bridge of Budapest was constructed as the second permanent bridge in the capital over the course of almost 4 years. The 607 metre long bridge, which today links Margaret Island with St Stephen Boulevard and Margaret Boulevard, was put into service on 30 April 1876.
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Margaret Island Like a precious pearl swimming on the Danube, the Margaret Island is seen from above. Its history goes back to the Roman times. During the Ă rpĂĄd dynasty it was called the islands of rabbits before being named Margit after a nun whose monastery was located there. This pleasant place is a refuge for many poets. It is a relaxing place to walk under the sycamore trees and to enjoy the musical tower and fountain among the beautiful flowers. 18
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The Chain Bridge Once, István Széchenyi was forced to wait an entire week in December of 1820 until he found one brave boatman who would take him to the other side. After this incident, he initiated the building of “thae Bridge” . Building this bridge had historical significance, since it was the first permanent bridge between Pest and Buda. After being taken over by local traffic in 1849, it became a national symbol of development. Both Hungarians and visitors enjoyed the use of this bridge. 21
Elizabeth Bridge The first steps on today’s Erzsébet híd (Elizabeth Bridge) started echoing more than a hundred years ago. At that time this crossing point above the Danube was referred to as the bridge of the Eskü tér (Promise Square) and its pavement was made of wooden cubes. Building started in 1897 when there were only two other bridges: the Lánchíd (Chain Bridge) and the Margit híd (Margaret Bridge). The original bridge was bombed by the German troops in 1945. Then, only years later (November 21, 1964) was the new construction handed over. 22
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Freedom Bridge The bridge was given to the public as a part of the Millennium celebrations, but its original name was Franz Jozef. It was built between 1894 and 1896, and the monarch himself hammered in the last nail. During the Second World War-similar to other bridges of Budapest - it was demolished, but during the city’s rebuilding, it was the first one to be erected again. It became a national emblem, the symbol of freedom. 25
Buda Castle The history of Buda Castle goes back to
the days of old times. The early central palace was severely damaged in the battles against the Turks, but later thanks to the initiative of Maria Theresa, it was renovated in a majestic
baroque style. Unfortunately, the palace fell victim to the Second World War, and at present it does retain any parts which would reflect the luxury of the bygone days’ kings.
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Buda Castle Today, it has an important role in the country’s cultural life since its chambers are used by the Hungarian National Gallery, the National SzÊchenyi Library, the Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art and the Historical Museum of Budapest.
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Castle Garden Bazaar (Várkert Bazár) It was built in a neo-renaissance style in 1875–1883, based on the design of Miklós Ybl. Originally, it had a commercial function, its arcades hosting a range of stores. Later, it was home of the Historical Gallery. It was opened to the public in 2014. Its visitors are sure to find fun and leisure. Perfect recreation is ensured by a beautiful neorenaissance garden, exhibition spaces, restaurants and a café. The complex near the castle serves as a venue for both outdoor and indoor events.
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The Fishermen’s Bastion Today’s Halászbástya (the bastion of the fishermen) was built in 1902 in the place of a former fortress. It is on the castle’s wall, but contrary to its name, it never served the purpose of protection. Its seven towers represent the seven leaders of the conquering Hungarians. The lookout from these towers is a gorgeous sight.
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Sรกndor Palace This classicist palace, next to the Buda Castle, was erected in 1806, on behalf of Count Vince Sรกndor. After 1867, it had been owned by the Pallavicini family who later sold it to the state. From 1867 on until the Second World War, Gyula Andrรกssy and the eighteen other prime ministers lived and worked in this building. During the bombings most of it was demolished. After years of researching and designing, the palace got its splendour back by 2002 and since 2003 it has been the office of the Hungarian prime minister. 37
The Gresham Palace This supreme palace was erected by The Gresham Life Assurance Society to be used as their foreign headquarters. The most famous architects and artists of the age worked on it and completed it by 1906 mainly for the British aristocracy. It has been known worldwide since 2004 as the Four Seasons Hotel. Gresham Palace is a hotel for those who are fond of splendor and hearty hospitality. 38
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New York Palace The building of the New York Palace was an assignment of the New York Insurance Company. Alajos Hauszman was in charge and it was built based in the Italian eclectic style. In 1894, a beautiful café house (the palace’s main attraction) was opened and soon became the haunt of the artistic and literary bohemia. The age’s most respected journals, the Nyugat’s editorial office was found here, as well. At present the building houses the Luxury Hotel, owned by the Boscolo Group, and its unique pomp is still a reminder of the one-time atmosphere. 41
Budai VigadĂł
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The Budai VigadĂł, built between 1898 and 1900 in the eclectic style, satisfied all needs of the citizens of Buda at that time. It was the town centre, including a library, theatre and was home to other cultural events. There where also a cafĂŠ and restaurant. Upon entry to the building, one will find an imposing lobby, followed by the sight of the wide columnar marble stairs and the richly decorated spacious theatre entrance hall. Today the building is the home of the House of Traditions and the Hungarian Cultural Institute.
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Pesti Vigadó Pesti Vigadó was inaugurated in 1865 within the frame of a festal ball “with a shining and public dance”. The building was constructed after the plans of Frigyes Feszl. It became the capital’s most important cultural institute. Several significant persons entered the stage in this building. Among them were Zoltán Kodály, Béla Bartók and Ernő Dohnányi. The buildings were severely damaged in World War II. In 1980, after its renewal it was again opened for the public. Currently the Pesti Vigadó serves as a venue for concerts, various conferences, banquets and receptions. 45
Vígszinház
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The Budai Vigadó, built between 1898 and 1900 in the eclectic style, satisfied all needs of the citizens of Buda at that time. It was the town centre, including a library, theatre and was home to other cultural events. There where also a café and restaurant. Upon entry to the building, one will find an imposing lobby, followed by the sight of the wide columnar marble stairs and the richly decorated spacious theatre entrance hall. Today the building is the home of the House of Traditions and the Hungarian Cultural Institute.
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Rácz Bath The octagonal cupola of the Rácz Bath of Turkish origin was built in the 16th century, during the Ottoman occupation of Hungary. Later it was owned by the Heinrich family. At that time the bath was renovated and extended according to Miklós Ybl’s plans. In the Second World War, it was heavily damaged. The Rác medicinal bath was renewed as part of the complex of the Rácz Hotel & Thermal Spa built by 2010. This historical bath complex constitutes a modern Thermal and Day Spa. The spa includes 13 pools, 21 treatment rooms, a wide choice of saunas and leisure areas, a sunbathing terrace in the loft, and a separate VIP section. 49
Rudas Bath The establishment of Rudas Bath is connected to Sokollu Mehmed Pasha of Buda. The thermal bath was built between 1566–1572. Thanks to the renovation works started in 2004, we can enjoy bathing here in a beautiful environment. Besides the pool recalling the enchanting past, steam rooms, wellness services and saunas ensure a perfect relaxation and revitalising experience. There is a selection of massages, herbal therapy available, or you can try the Hungarian Wine Therapy. And if you are looking for a truly unique experience, you can enjoy the Danube panorama from the rooftop pool also. 50
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Andrássy avenue Prime minister Count Gyula Andrássy Sr., proposed the construction of a new avenue and building work was commenced in 1871. As the construction of an above ground railway line had been opposed from the beginning, the line for the Millennium Underground Railway was laid beneath the 2310 metre long Andrássy Avenue. The continent’s first underground route was opened to the general public on 2 May 1896. 53
The Vajdahunyad Castle The end of the 19th century brought a special series of events for Hungarians. The nation was celebrating the foundation of the state. The Millennium Exhibition of 1896 was part of these celebrations. The event resulted in erecting many new buildings. One of them, found in the Városliget, was this castle with its four different architectural styles designed and carried out by Ignác Alpár. These buildings all display the stylistic features of other monuments from Hungary’s past which are located elsewhere in the country. After the conclusion of the celebration, the castle was given to the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture where visitors are always welcome.
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Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden The history of the zoo goes back long before 1866. Most of its buildings were finished by the opening year of 1866. Although, many things have changed since then, this zoo is considered as an “art relic”. It was among the first zoos in the word which kept a giraffe and that special animal –due to the mediation of Sissy- was transferred here from Schönbrunn. Our picture shows the ornamented Elephant House, which has been recently renovated. 57
Gundel Restaurant The achievement of the life’s work of founder Károly Gundel is that Gundel is today synonymous with the citadel of Hungarian hospitality and gastronomy. More than 100 years after its establishment, the restaurant is proud to perpetuate Károly Gundel’s finest traditions of catering. These include hospitality, the tradition which pervades the building, as well as the fact that meals are prepared from the best ingredients and elegantly decorated before being served to customers. 58
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Széchenyi Bath This magnificent building, which is Europe’s biggest thermal bath complex, was Pest’s first bath. Later, it was rebuilt according to the plans of Győző Czigler to meet the age’s requirements and it became well-known as the Széchenyi Bath. Since then it has always been a popular place.
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City Park Ice Rink The City Park Ice Rink began to welcome lovers of skating in 1870, following the persistent work of the Pest Skating Association. Skating was accompanied by huge enthusiasm among residents of the capital. In 1874 a skating hall was built to designs by Ă–dĂśn Lechner, and later in 1895 a building in NeoBaroque style was erected to designs by Imre Francsek Snr. Still today, the City Park Ice Rink offers a warm welcome to lovers of skating. 67
Heroe’s Square All the lamp posts are facing a peculiar monument on the Hősök tere (Heroe’s Square). It is the millennial monument which commemorates the thousandth anniversary of the original settlement of the Hungarians. The monument depicts the heroes who made Hungarian history with their deeds.In 1874 a skating hall was built to designs by Ödön Lechner, and later in 1895 a building in Neo-Baroque style was erected to designs by Imre Francsek Snr. Still today, the City Park Ice Rink offers a warm welcome to lovers of skating. 68
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Elizabeth Square ErzsĂŠbet Square is a space at the centre of the city, a popular place for summer festivals. It is where you can find the Danubius Fountain, a symbolic representation of the 4 Hungarian rivers, Design Terminal, AkvĂĄrium Club and the Ferris wheel, providing a marvellous view of the city.
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Váci street It is one of Budapest’s most famous shopping streets, which thousands of tourists love to visit. Numerous famous restaurants are to be found here, including the world renowned Gerbeaud. Shoppers are welcomed by a broad selection of wares in elegant stores and folk art shops. The doors of the Pest Theatre open onto this street, and the István Csók Gallery is also located here. 72
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Gozsdu Courtyard (Gozsdu Udvar) It was built in 1915, based on the design of Győző Cziegler. The building complex was fully renovated in 2009, becoming the entertainment district of Budapest city centre, one of the most dynamically developing centres of the city. It offers uniquely exciting activities to its visitors every day of the week, day and night. We can choose from fairs, carnival, salsa nights and many more interesting programmes. It is also home to numerous venues and restaurants of unique styles. 75
Central Market Hall Aiming at ceasing the noisy and dirty outdoor markets, the City Council established the Central Market Hall. The stately neo-gothic building was handed over to the traders in 1897, and almost at the same time, four other market halls were built on the Pest side. This wonderful building is still in operation as a market hall today, welcoming thousands of local and foreign shoppers and visitors with a colourful selection.
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The Whale This unique building on the bank of the Danube unites architectural features from various periods, as the brick building erected in 1881 is embraced by a modern steel and glass shell structure in the form of a Whale. The Whale is a cultural, commercial and entertainment centre, housing the Budapest gallery, numerous coffee shops, restaurants and the market square, where among other things, antique artworks and bioproducts are available. 79
The Hungarian Academy of Sciences Count István Széchenyi – one of the leading figures of the Hungarian Age of Reforms – on 3 November 1825 at the national assembly in Pozsony (Bratislava) offered one year’s income of his estate for initiating the Hungarian Learned Society – now know as the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The impressive building was constructed in the neo-Renaissance style built under the leadership of Miklós Ybl and Antal Szkaliczky, who was inaugurated on 11 December 1865. The Hungarian Academy of Sciences has become the scientific body of the highest level in Hungary. 80
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Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal Similar to other beautiful buildings, this hotel was also built for the 1986 Millennium Exhibition. After its opening not only were the most exclusive guests pampered by the “Royal treatment” here but the hotel also became very popular among writers and journalists of the time. In its ballroom, several classical music concerts were held which were often conducted by Béla Bartók. Although, after its heyday it was closed down for some time, the legend of the place was revived when in 2003, the Maltese Corinthia group made it possible to reopen the doors of the hotel, which is now five-star. 83
Gerbeaud The legendary Gerbeaud (Cafe) is in the heart of Budapest on the Vörösmarty Square. It takes pride in being mentioned among Europe’s oldest, greatest and most famous confectionaries /sweetshops. It was opened in 1858 and later, thanks to co-owners Emil Gerbeaud’s work, it became world famous. Gerbeaud is a place for those who are fond of oldfashioned and tarnished confectioners. 84
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GellĂŠrt Hill Word of mouth indicates that this hill used to be the place of the witches, but today it is simply a place with a beautiful view of the city. The name of the hill is closely connected to another legend that tells the story of a bishop. His name was GellĂŠrt, and in 1046 he visited the pagan Hungarians to convert them to Christianity but they resisted, and the bishop was stuffed in a barrel equipped with inward pointing nails and rolled down a hill. Later, the converted Hungarians named the hill after GellĂŠrt and erected a statue depicting him. 87
Saint GellĂŠrt Hotel and Thermal Bath The Szent GellĂŠrt Hotel and Bath was opened in 1918. Similar to other places of the early 20th century, this one is also presented in the secession style. Besides being a well known and popular thermal hotel worldwide, it is also a gorgeous sight.
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Museum of Applied Arts In 1890, the government invited entries for a competition to design the palace of the Museum of Applied Arts. ร dรถn Lechner and Gyula Pรกrtos won the competition based mainly on their inclusion of Oriental designs in their plans. The palace-like building was opened for the millennium celebrations by Franz Jozef, on the 25th of October, 1896. This magnificent building shows the features of the early secession. Its fascinating colourful dome is covered by Zsolnay porcelain tiles, catching the attention of the passers-by. The inside of the great hall, presents us with another sight that cannot be missed. 91
Franz Liszt Academy of Music Education at the Royal National Hungarian Academy of Music started in the home of Franz Liszt in 1875. In 1879, it moved to a new, representative school, and later, as the academy soon outgrew it, to the present building of the Academy of Music in 1907. The building that was renovated in 2011 is open to visitors. The Academy of Music is also home to concerts, music shows and a university.
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Hungarian National Museum The idea of founding the museum emerged in times when the national consciousness and the notion of freedom were both becoming apparent among civilians. In 1802, Ferenc Széchenyi, wanting to grant his rich collection to the Hungarian nation, asked the permission of the ruling Ferenc I who, of course, supported Széchenyi’s idea. Mihály Pollach’s work was finished by 1847, and the place had a significant role in the 1848-49 war of independence. The revolution broke out after the famous poet, Sándor Petőfi, recited his poem to the nation while standing on the stairs of the museum. From that point on, the building became a museum as well as an emblem of the nation’s freedom. 95
Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum) The Museum of Fine Arts established in 1906 was reopened at the end of 2018, following its renovation. Thanks to its modernisation, it meets the art protection and visitor requirements of 21st century museums. After 1957, artwork of Hungarian relevance was removed from the museum’s collection and added to the Hungarian National Gallery. The two institutions merged in 2012, and the artwork of Hungarian relevance made before 1800 was returned to the renewed Museum of Fine Arts. Today, it has over one hundred and twenty thousand pieces of art. 96
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The Ybl Palace The Ybl Palace was built in Neo-Renaissance style in 1869 to designs by Miklรณs Ybl. At that time it ranked as one of the most ornate buildings in Pest, serving as the headquarters for the Pest First Home Savings Bank. Preserving its ornateness and elegance, this uniquely magnificent building still welcomes visitors with offices equipped with all the achievements of modern technology, with conference rooms, a cigar room and coffee shop. 99
Szabó Ervin Library The Metropolitan Szabó Ervin Library is found on Szabó Ervin Square (Szabó Ervin tér), in the neobaroque Wenckheim Palace. The library started to operate in 1904. The largest public education institution of the capital, it directly serves more than 12% of the population, preserving and transferring significant cultural values.
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Palace of Arts Building the Palace of Arts (MÜPA) was one of the most prominent cultural events of Hungary. The establishment, unique in Central Europe, is home to three institutions. In the middle, there is the Béla Bartók National Concert Hall, the Danube side of the building is home to Ludwig Museum, while the Fesztivál Theatre is found on the other side. Its technical quality is outstanding not only at a national, but an international level too. It won the most prominent international award of the International Real Estate Federation in 2007, the FIABCI Prix d’Excellence 2006 Award. 103
Hungarian National Theatre The country’s most significant theatre, the Hungarian National Theatre, was built in 1837 and was found on today’s Rákóczy út. In 1913 it was pulled down after it was ruled to be dangerously flammable. The company could go to today’s Magyar Színház (Hungarian Theatre) but only after the second millennium could they move to the new building. This new theater was finished by January 2, 2002. It was done in record time, merely fifteen months after construction began. This theatre is an interesting composition that is both elegant and modern while the ornaments and statues give a nostalgic impression. 104
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Uránia the National Movie Theatre The theatre was built in the early 1890’s originally a cabaret hall called the “orfeum”. The formal elements of the Italian renaissance and the Venetian Gothic are nicely alloyed with ornaments of Arabesque architecture giving the impression of a fairy world. Later, before it became a movie theater, it had been operated by wandering comedians, but then, more than hundred years ago, it became a movie theater. Uránia is one of the coziest places for movie-lovers. 107
Hungarian State Opera House September 24, 1884 was the long opening of the Budapest Opera House, and the great opening celebration was enhanced by the presence of Karl Franz Jozef. The awaiting crowd of the Sugรกr road was so excited to see the interior that they swept aside the guarding policemen and ran into the palace-like institute. Although, the name of the road has since been changed, the building is still beautiful and is a favourite of opera lovers. 108
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Synagogue in Dohány Street The biggest synagogue in Europe which was built between 1855-1859 according to the plans of Figyes Feszl and Ludwid Förster, is still a major factor in today’s vibrant Budapest lifestyle. Its neologist style is a mixture of Moorish, Byzantine and Turkish elements. The services are in Hebrew in the spacious interior is capable of accommodating 6000 people. On the opening ceremony, the original organ-pipe, with its 5000 pipes, came to life by the hands of Franz Liszt. 111
Matthias Church The former Budavári Nagyboldogasszony templom (the Church of Our Lady) has always been a prominent one in the Hungarian history. It had been standing for centuries when King Mátyás (“Righteous Matthias”) built a tower on it. Weddings of this grand king and other great figures of Hungary were held in this church, and the last king to be crowned, Károly I made his oath here as well. Today, the church is a sacred place of pilgrimage but it is open to the public, and visitors should not miss the musical high masses. 112
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Saint Stephen’s Basilica As the church’s proud castle, this divine monument is the adornment of the Szent István tér (square). Building it was so important that even the monarch Franz Jozef came to see how the keystone would be set down. The sanctuary is a frequently visited place by believers, but it is also a popular tourist sight of Budapest. The building itself is astonishing while the view of the city seen from the cupola is simply unforgettable. 115
Western Railway Station The old station, which was built in 1842, (although it was uniquely big) became outdated by 1867 due to the age’s fast development. The widely known Eiffel company was entrusted to design and carry out the new station. Building it was quite special because the new station was built atop the old one, and when the works were done the old parts were removed. Construction was finished by 1877; and it became a major station in the city while the building is the honor of the Nyugati square. 116
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Eastern Railway Station The station’s eclectic building was finished by 1884. At the time, it was the biggest and most modern railway station in Europe. The building itself stands nicely on the Baross tÊr (square) while the station serves as the main hub for international trains, as well as eastbound Hungarian trains.
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Momento Park The park commemorates the spirit of communist dictatorship and its statues, with 42 sculptures and memorials. Every piece used to “decorate” the streets of Budapest in the period of 1945–1989. Visitors can get a ride in the legendary East German car, the Trabant, and listen to a 45-minute English tour guide, exposing secrets, trivia and gossips of the communist era. 120
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Aquaworld Hotel and pleasure bath in one. We can choose from countless options if we are looking for some recreation, as besides the indoor and outdoor pools, there are scuba diving classes, baby swimming classes and water slides operating all year round. The biggest sauna world of Hungary awaits its guest with sauna programmes. Besides all these, there are also restaurants and a squash court in the complex, so everyone can find the most suitable form of recreation for them. 123
Aquincum The Aquincum Museum presents archaeological findings from the ancient Roman settlement of Aquincum that was located at the place of present-day Óbuda. Besides the Archaeological Park, it also features a permanent exhibition titled Rome in Aquincum in the central exhibition hall of the new museum building, which mainly displays findings from the former Governor’s Palace. 124
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Gül Baba’s Türbe The türbe (a chapel –like place erected above the tombs of high-ranking Islamic leaders) was built between 1543 and 1548 by Jahjapasazáde Mehmed, the third pasha of Buda to commemorate the “father of roses” that was Gül Baba. In the Turkish times, he was the most prestigious saint of Buda and legendary stories about his wonderful deeds were circling round among the people. He was fond of his beautiful flowers. His garden was so famous that centuries later, Hungarians thought it appropriate to name this part of the city, where the türbe stands, Rózsadomb (Rose Hill) to honour the baba’s memory. The sanctuary is a popular Mohammedan pilgrimage for the followers of Islam.
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