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Journeys

St. Stephen s Basilica

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St. Stephen’s Basilica stands proudly as Budapest’s largest church, with the capacity to accommodate up to 8,500 people. Although it is technically a cathedral, Pope Pius XI honored it with the title ‘basilica minor’ in 1931. The journey to its completion was a lengthy one, spanning over 50 years. Construction began in 1851, and it wasn't until 1906 that the grand inauguration ceremony took place, graced by the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph himself. The path was not without its challenges: in 1868, the dome collapsed, necessitating a near restart of the construction. This setback contributed significantly to the delay.

Jozsef Hild, the original architect, drafted the initial plans and oversaw the project until his death in 1867. His successor, Miklós Ybl, was a prominent figure in European architecture during the 19th century. Ybl, who also designed the magnificent Opera House, had to create new plans following the dome's collapse. Tragically, Ybl passed away in 1891, before the Basilica’s completion, but the work continued according to his vision.

Initially conceived in the neo-classical style by Hild, the Basilica was completed in a neo-renaissance style under Ybl's guidance. Its dome rises to 96 meters, matching the height of the Budapest Parliament Building. This uniformity is not just an architectural coincidence; it symbolizes the balance between church and state in Hungary. Current regulations in Budapest ensure that no building surpasses this height, preserving the skyline's historic harmony. While you're there, don't miss the opportunity to ascend to the top of the dome. The panoramic view of Budapest from this vantage point is nothing short of breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for miles, with the Danube River snaking through the city and the Buda Hills forming a picturesque backdrop. This perspective truly encapsulates the grandeur and beauty of Hungary’s capital.
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Buda Castle Hill
In the 13th century, after the Mongolian invasion, people sought refuge in the hills of Buda, marking the beginning of life at Castle Hill. The first royal castle emerged during this period, bringing a sense of security and hope. The 15th century ush
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Fisherman s Bastion
Imagine strolling along the Danube in Budapest, and suddenly you come across the enchanting Fisherman's Bastion. Stretching an impressive 140 meters, this architectural gem is a feast for the eyes. Its seven stone towers, with their distinctive point
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Szechenyi Thermal Bath
With 21 pools, Széchenyi Bath is one of the largest bathing complexes in Europe, and it's a must-visit on any trip to Budapest. Its adventure pool is like a playground for adults, featuring a thrilling water chute, a soothing underwater jacuzzi, a re
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Buda Castle
Buda Castle, the grand historical complex that was once home to Hungarian royalty, stands majestically in Budapest. It all began in 1265, with the first royal palace crafted in the Gothic style during the reigns of Louis the Great, King Sigismund, an
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Matthias Church
Nestled in the heart of Budapest, the historic Matthias Church, or Mátyás-templom, proudly stands with over 700 years of stories etched into its walls. This architectural gem has witnessed numerous significant events, including the coronation of Char
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Budapest Parliament
The Parliament building, a stunning showcase of Neo-Gothic architecture with a splash of Renaissance and Baroque flair, stands proudly over a century old. Back in the 1880s, a public competition was held to choose its design, resulting in the masterp
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Chain Bridge
Chain Bridge, a marvel of its time, was hailed as one of the world's wonders when it was completed in 1849. The mastermind behind this iconic structure was Adam Clark, a brilliant engineer hailing from Scotland. There's an old tale about Clark being
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Gellert Hill
Perched dramatically above Budapest, Gellért Hill carries a rich tapestry of history that echoes through the ages. Named after Bishop Gellért, who met a tragic end during the tumultuous religious conflicts of 1046, the hill offers a glimpse into Hung
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Heroes Square
Laid out in 1896 to celebrate Hungary's thousandth birthday, Heroes' Square (Hősök tere) is a stunning and expansive centerpiece of Budapest. Nestled at the end of Andrássy Avenue and right by City Park, this square is a favorite among tourists and l
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Margaret Island
Strolling across Margaret Island is a leisurely affair, taking just around 20 minutes if you walk its entire length. However, most visitors find themselves lingering at the island's famed spots like the Hajós Alfréd and Palatinus outdoor pools. The P
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Budapest Opera House
You can explore the Budapest Opera House during the day, soaking in its stunning architecture, and then return in the evening for a world-class performance. This opera house is truly a gem of Neo-Renaissance architecture in Europe. Opened in 1884, it