A sight to behold: the Castle District of Budapest
Buda Castle has indeed been inhabited by people throughout history. The Buda Castle is one of Budapest’s iconic castles and fortifications, which rises on the Buda side overlooking the Danube. The Castle District is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the scene of many historical events.
The history of Buda Castle goes back hundreds of years. The first buildings here date back to the 13th century, when the area was built by Hungarian kings and nobles. Later, during the Turkish subjugation, the Ottoman army occupied the castle and kept their central military command here.
The history of Buda Castle
In the castle’s history, royal families, rulers and governors stayed here. Buda Castle also served as the seat of the monarch and the official residence of the Hungarian kings. The buildings and palaces commemorate many historical events of the people who lived and ruled here.
Today, Buda Castle is still one of the most important historical and cultural attractions in Budapest. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Castle District is one of the most visited areas of the Hungarian capital and an attractive tourist destination.
The Castle District has many buildings and attractions that reflect the city’s rich history. Some of the prominent locations are:
- Budavári Palace (Budapest History Museum): The central building and best-known symbol of Buda Castle. The palace was the former residence of the Hungarian kings, and then underwent significant renovations during the Turkish subjugation. Today it functions as a museum and presents Hungarian history and culture.
- Matthias Church: The most impressive church in the castle, which was originally built in the 13th century. The church is one of the masterpieces of Hungarian Renaissance and Gothic architecture, with magnificent interior decoration and a stunning view of the city.
- Fisherman’s Bastion: A lookout point built in the 19th century in the neighbourhood of the Matthias Church. The Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the city’s best-known iconic buildings, which offers a wonderful panorama of Budapest and the Danube.
- National Gallery: The museum is located in the south wing of the Buda Castle, where you can view an excellent collection of Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to the modern era.
- There is a former Carmelite monastery and church on Szent György Square serving today as the headquarter of the Hungarian Prime Minister.
- Walking in Buda Castle, visitors can travel back in time and enjoy the charm of historic buildings, narrow streets, and charming squares. In addition, numerous restaurants, cafes, gift shops and craft markets await visitors to make spending time in the castle even more pleasant.
The surroundings of the Buda Castle and the castle itself are great venues for events and festivals. Local residents and tourists alike can enjoy the many cultural and entertainment events, such as concerts, historical festivals and fine art exhibitions.
