MyBuda
Tag

history

Browsing
Active tourism

The Budapest Museum of Fine Arts: An Artistic Treasure in the Heart of Europe

The Budapest Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum) is a cultural gem located in the iconic Heroes’ Square in the heart of the Hungarian capital. Founded in the early 20th century, this museum houses an extensive collection of more than 100,000 works spanning a broad spectrum of time, from Ancient Egyptian artefacts and classical sculptures to European paintings up to the 20th century. Thanks to the diversity and quality of its collection, it has established itself as one of the most important museums in Central Europe. The neoclassical building stands out both for its façade and its spacious interior rooms, which offer a quiet and well-organised environment in which to enjoy art in peace and quiet. Over the years, the museum has been able to adapt to the times, renovating its spaces and expanding its exhibition offer with temporary exhibitions that complement its permanent collection. Whether for academic interest, cultural…

by
Read More
Active tourism

Buda Castle: The Timeless Jewel of Budapest

Perched majestically atop Castle Hill, overlooking the sparkling waters of the Danube River, Buda Castle stands as one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. With its grand domes, ornate façades, and sweeping panoramic views, the castle is not just a feast for the eyes, it’s a living testament to Hungary’s turbulent yet rich history. Once the royal residence of Hungarian kings, today Buda Castle invites visitors from around the world to step into a world where centuries-old architecture meets vibrant cultural life. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this architectural masterpiece has evolved over the ages, witnessing invasions, wars, and rebirths, each leaving its mark on the stone walls and cobblestone streets. Whether you’re drawn by its historical depth, artistic treasures, or simply the stunning views, Buda Castle is a must-see destination that captures the soul of Budapest. A Glimpse into History The story of Buda Castle begins in the…

by
Read More
Active tourism

The Danube River: Queen of European Rivers and Heart of Budapest

The Danube River, often celebrated as the “Queen of European Rivers,” is one of the continent’s most iconic waterways. Spanning approximately 2,850 kilometers, it is Europe’s second-longest river after the Volga. From its source in Germany’s Black Forest to its delta in the Black Sea, the Danube meanders through ten countries, binding them through a shared geography, history, and culture. A River Woven into European History Few rivers have witnessed as much history as the Danube. It served as a critical frontier for the Roman Empire, where outposts and forts lined its banks. In medieval times, it became a trade route linking the Holy Roman Empire to the Byzantine world. During the Ottoman expansion and the Austro-Hungarian reign, the Danube remained a central artery of power, movement, and influence. The river has also been a backdrop for revolutions, battles, and diplomatic exchanges. Empires rose and fell along its banks, and…

by
Read More
Active tourism

The Hungarian National Museum: A Treasury of Hungarian History and Culture

The Hungarian National Museum, or Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum, stands as a key institution in the heart of Budapest, acting as the main repository of Hungarian history, art and archaeology. Its mission encompasses the presentation of the rich and complex history of Hungary and the Carpathian Basin from prehistoric times to the present day. Housed in an impressive neoclassical building, the museum not only houses a vast collection of artefacts, but also serves as a symbol of Hungarian national identity. The purpose of this article is to offer a detailed overview of this important museum, providing practical information for visitors and highlighting its profound cultural and historical significance. Practical Information for Visitors For those planning to explore the treasures housed in the Hungarian National Museum, practical information is essential to facilitate the visit. The exact address of the museum is Múzeum körút 14-16, 1088 Budapest, Hungary. Its central location in Budapest…

by
Read More
Art

Ernő Rubik: The genius behind the cube who was born in Budapest

The Rubik’s Cube is much more than a toy: it is a worldwide symbol of ingenuity, logic and perseverance. Since its creation in 1974, it has captivated millions of people thanks to its contrast between a simple appearance and impressive mathematical complexity, with more than 4.3 × 10¹⁹ possible combinations. As well as entertaining, it has established itself as an educational tool that stimulates spatial reasoning, memory and problem solving, and has spawned a global community of enthusiasts who share techniques, compete and celebrate their passion for this puzzle.What many do not know is that the Rubik’s Cube has Hungarian roots: it was invented in Budapest by Ernő Rubik, a sculptor and professor of architecture, who initially called it the ‘Magic Cube’. The connection with the Hungarian capital goes beyond its origin, as Budapest also hosted the first edition of the World Rubik’s Cube Championship in 1982, cementing its role…

by
Read More
Active tourism

Budapest’s Secrets: Myths, Murmurs, and Mysteries

Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube, is a city that pulses with rich history and vibrant culture, where the majestic river winds its way between grand monuments and picturesque streets. Beyond its architectural splendor and historical legacy, Budapest is also steeped in a fascinating tapestry of legends and folklore passed down through generations. These stories, often blending historical events with elements of popular imagination, not only serve as entertainment but also offer deep insights into the values, beliefs, and fears of Hungarian society over time. The Tongueless Lions of the Chain Bridge Among the many architectural marvels of Budapest, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest across the Danube River. While its historic and symbolic significance is well known, the bridge is also wrapped in a peculiar urban legend involving…

by
Read More
Active tourism

The Budapest Parliament: A Symbol of History, Architecture and Hungarian Sovereignty

The Budapest Parliament stands as one of the most iconic and photographed buildings in the Hungarian capital. Its distinctive profile, with its spires soaring skyward and its imposing presence on the banks of the Danube, has made it a globally recognised landmark. Standing majestically on the banks of the river running through the city, it dominates the cityscape and attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. Its strategic location not only offers spectacular panoramic views, but also makes it a visual focal point accessible from many parts of the city. More than just a government building, the Budapest Parliament is a living symbol of Hungary’s rich history, deep national identity and constant aspiration for sovereignty. Its construction and elaborate design were driven by a fervent desire to assert Hungarian independence in a period of significant political and social transformation. General Information The official name of this building in Hungarian…

by
Read More
Active tourism

The Jewish Quarter of Budapest: A Historic Neighborhood Reborn

Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, owes its existence to the 1873 unification of three distinct settlements: Buda, Pest, and Óbuda. This city, strategically located on the banks of the Danube, has served as a crucial crossroads of European history for centuries. Within this rich tapestry of historical development, the Jewish community has played an enduring and multifaceted role, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s identity, culture, and progress. From its earliest traces in Roman times to its vibrant presence today, the story of Jewish settlement in Budapest is one of resilience, contribution, and profound historical significance. This article aims to provide a concise yet comprehensive overview of this remarkable journey, highlighting the key periods, pivotal events, and lasting impact of the Jewish people on the life and character of Budapest. The Origin and History of the Jewish Quarter ​The Jewish presence in Budapest dates back to Roman times,…

by
Read More
History

Money in Budapest: An Emblem of History, Art and Resilience

The history of Budapest, as the heart of Hungary, is intrinsically linked to the evolution of its currency. Since medieval times, the region we know today as Budapest has been a centre of power and economic activity, which naturally made it a focal point for the minting of coins and the development of monetary systems in the country. Historical records mention the existence of forints minted under the reigns of Louis I of Hungary (1342-1382) and Matthias Corvinus (1458-1490), figures whose courts and governments had a significant influence in shaping modern Hungary, with Buda as a major centre. The Hungarian monetary system underwent a radical transformation after World War II. The massive hyperinflation of the pengő in 1945-46, considered the highest ever recorded, devastated the country’s economy. In response to this crisis, the Hungarian forint was introduced on 1 August 1946 as a crucial measure to stabilise the economy. The…

by
Read More
Food & Drink

Beer in Budapest: Tradition, Divisions and Unique Flavours

When you walk through the bars and supermarkets of Budapest, it is easy to think that the main Hungarian beers have always been competing on the same ground. However, behind brands such as Dreher, Borsodi, Arany Ászok or Szalon Sör there is a history marked by tradition, innovation… and politically imposed divisions. Hungarian brewing has centuries-old roots, with a remarkable evolution from medieval home brews and monastic beers to the industrial boom of the 19th century, especially in the Kőbánya district of Budapest, considered the country’s brewing heartland. However, after World War II and during the communist era, the state restructured the beer market, assigning each brewery a specific geographical region, limiting competition and shaping local identities: Borsodi in the east, Soproni in the west, Dreher and Arany Ászok in the capital, and Szalon from Pécs in the southwest. This organisation left a lasting impression on the palate and consumer…

by
Read More