Castle District Budapest
Fisherman’s Bastion
With its spectacular views and architecture Fisherman’s Bastion is undoubtedly one of the most visited attractions in Hungary – and for a good reason. This Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque beauty, with its towers, arches and turrets adorns Buda Castle Hill and gives the impression of a fairy-tale. Built between 1895 and 1902 the Bastion offers views of the Danube River, the Chain Bridge and the city’s breathtaking panorama. Named after the medieval guild of fishermen who defended the city walls, its seven towers represent the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in 895. History and architecture blend impeccably together at Fisherman’s Bastion where you can immerse yourself in Hungarian culture while enjoying a visual feast in the heart of Budapest. Famous for its romantic atmosphere and historical value, Fisherman’s Bastion is a must-see with its views and a symbol of Hungarian spirit and identity, attracting visitors from all around the world.
Matthias Church
Matthias Church is hard to miss in the Castle District, standing next to the prominent Fisherman’s Bastion; its Gothic architecture, with its towers and intricate details, tells stories of centuries gone by. Built in the 13th century and restored in the 19th century, it’s a keeper of Hungary’s religious and cultural heritage. Step inside and discover a world where frescoes of biblical scenes and Hungarian history come alive in colors that seem to dance in the light filtering through the beautiful stained glass windows. The interior is a treasure trove of medieval artifacts and royal symbols, a glimpse into the country’s rich past. Matthias Church is a place of worship but also a symbol of art and history, and will captivate you with its beauty and historical importance.
Buda Castle
At the top of Castle Hill in Budapest’s iconic Castle District is the magnificent Buda Castle, a grand monument to centuries-old heritage and architectural finesse. This historic fortress, with its winding corridors and majestic towers, offers breathtaking views of the Danube River, which forms a natural boundary between Pest and Buda, and the grand city below. With origins dating back to medieval times, including Renaissance and Baroque renovations, Buda Castle served as a fortress as well as a base for the royalty, witnessing centuries of cultural evolution. Today it serves mainly as the headquarters for two of the country’s key cultural institutions that document Hungary’s history through a wealth of artistic heritage in the form of fine artworks and artifacts. The Hungarian National Gallery, housed in the north wing of Buda Castle, represents ‘the most significant part of the country’s visual heritage’. As visitors explore its labyrinth-like halls decorated with spectacular frescoes and Gothic adornments, they embark on a captivating journey through Budapest’s Castle District, where history and artistic brilliance unite.
