When thinking of Europe an often overlooked spot is the beautiful city of Budapest. With its nearly 2,000 year history, the region seamlessly blends the ancient and modern while also showing the energy of a city that escaped communism to embrace democracy.
Budapest is three distinct areas that merged in the 19th century—Buda, Óbuda,and Pest. Most trips to Budapest begin on the Buda side of the Danube at Castle Hill. This area was first settled after the Mongol invasion and saw the building of an amazing castle complex beginning in the 13th century.
The marriage of King Matthias Corvinus to Beatrix of Naples saw many Italian architects and artist come to court and impact the design. Successive Kings, Queens, and even the Hapsburg Imperial family added to the complex to make this truly one of the most magnificent castle districts in Europe open to the public. Today Castle Hill is home to the Castle Museum, Hungarian Art Museum, the Presidential Residence, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the beautiful gothic Matthias Church.
Just across the Danube in Pest you will find the Hungarian Parliament, the icon of the city. Built in the mid-19thcentury in Gothic Revival style the building represents the unification of Budapest as the heart of a revived Hungary. Nearby you will find Heroes Square, a monument built to celebrate the 1,000 history of the Hungarian people. This site holds a special place for locals as it has hosted important events such as the re-burial of the pre-Soviet era Prime Minister after the fall of communism, an event attended by 250,000 people.
Beyond the historical beauty of the city, the culture is alive and vibrant for all to take in. The city is full of amazing local markets that have a life onto themselves. Just outside of the city there are many opportunities to visit equestrian parks and get a first-hand look at how the semi-nomadic life on horseback is still part of the collective Hungarian consciousness.
If you are looking for something a little different and not so cookie cutter on your next European vacation, I suggest giving Budapest a try. Whether a guided tour, relaxing river cruise, or self-exploration, there are many ways to take in this amazing city.
