The Hungarian Parliament is one of the oldest legislative buildings in Europe and the second largest!
In the sky of Budapest rises the spire of a majestic symbol of the independence and unity of the Hungarian nation - Hungarian Parliament building.
Seven years after the unification of Buda, Pest and Óbuda, in 1880 the State Assembly decided to build a parliament building to emphasize the sovereign right of the Hungarian nation. A competition was announced, which was won by the architect Imre Steindl. Thus, construction began in 1885, and the first meeting of the State Assembly was held in the building already in 1896, during the celebration of the 1000th anniversary of the Finding of the Motherland (although construction was finally completed only in 1904).
Thousands of people worked on the construction, 40 million bricks and 40 kg of gold were used. Unfortunately, the building's architect became blind before construction was completed and was unable to see his creation.
Parliament of Hungary fits seamlessly into the space between two bridges - Margaret Bridge and Chain Bridge. The main façade faces the Danube and houses 88 sculptures of Hungarian kings and leaders. The main entrance faces Lajos Kossuth Square. It is called “Lion Gate” because of the sculptures that decorate it.
Like the British Parliament House, the style of the building is neo-Gothic. The building covers an area of 18,000 square meters. m. The building is 268 m long and 123 m wide. Its interior includes 10 courtyards, 13 elevators, 27 gates, 29 staircases and 691 rooms. The height of the building is 96 m, it is one of the tallest in the city.
The building is not only valuable in an architectural sense, but also has great historical significance. The Sacred Crown, which is over a thousand years old, is kept here under the dome!
Given the size of the building, some parts of it are almost always under restoration, but despite this, the Parliament is always open to visitors.
At night Hungarian Parliament building beautifully illuminated
The Parliament building in Budapest is the largest building in Hungary - it has almost 700 rooms, 29 staircases and 10 courtyards. This residence, built in 1896, is one of the country's main attractions. Over half a million tourists visit parliament every year.
History of creation
The decision to construct the building was made back in 1843. However, these plans were interrupted by the soon-to-begin Hungarian Revolution. After the unification of Buda and Pest in 1873, the government returned to this idea. A site was chosen for the construction on the eastern bank of the Danube, between the Széchenyi and Margaret bridges.
Based on the results of a qualifying competition, Imre Steindl, a big fan of the neo-Gothic style, was chosen for the position of architect. According to the master's idea, the structure is located in such a way that it can be viewed from all four sides. Other architects participating in the competition also contributed. According to their designs, the Ethnographic Museum and the Ministry of Agriculture were built next to the parliament.
The construction of the Hungarian parliament lasted almost twenty years, from 1885 to 1904.
The result was a majestic building, 268 meters long and 123 meters wide.
Architecture buffs often compare this residence to the Palace of Westminster in London.
Architecture Features
The Parliament building covers an area of about 18,000 square meters. meters: almost 40 million bricks were used for its construction. The goal of the project was to showcase the talents of local craftsmen, so the residence was built entirely from Hungarian materials.
No expense was spared for the construction; only about 23 kilograms of gold and 30,000 cubic meters were used to decorate the interior. meters of carved decorations.
The facade of the parliament is decorated with 90 sculptures depicting great historical figures of Hungary, and the length of the red carpet inside the premises is almost 3 kilometers.
Dome Hall of Parliament
According to the project, the work was supposed to be completed back in 1896, but by this time only the central domed hall, which is the basis of the entire building, had been built. In the same year, it celebrated the next anniversary of the conquest of Hungary by the Magyar tribes.
The hall is striking in its size: the diameter of its dome is 20 meters, and the height reaches 27 meters. On both sides of the dome are the parliament meeting rooms. Since the Hungarian Parliament is no longer bicameral, the second meeting room has been converted into a conference room. The room is decorated with 162 sculptures depicting the rulers of Hungary and Transylvania.
Since 2000, the small Parliament Museum, inside the residence, has kept royal symbols of power - the scepter, the orb, the sword and, of course, the crown of St. Stephen. Every hour for 20 minutes there is a guard of honor dressed in historical uniform. The mantle, as well as the chests in which the coronation regalia were kept, are kept in the Hungarian National Museum. The interiors of the domed hall are richly decorated with mosaics, stained glass and gilding in the medieval style.
Virtual tour of the Houses of Parliament
Excursions
The Hungarian Parliament building is a symbol of Budapest; its image can be found everywhere on souvenirs and postcards. All sightseeing tours of the city include a visit to the residence. Nearby there are attractions also worthy of attention: the Kossuth Memorial, monuments to Ferenc Rakoczi II, Imre Nagy, Attila Jozsef and participants in the 1956 uprising in Hungary.
If you come to the parliament building after dark, you will see a fascinating picture. The evening illumination of the residence and the reflection in the waters of the Danube make it look like a magical castle.
Tours of the Hungarian Parliament building are offered daily. For guests from Russia, Russian-speaking guides are available at 12.30 and 15.30.
During the week of plenary sessions, visits to the residence may be limited. You can find out about all changes in the work of parliament by phone or on the official website.
Judging by the reviews, tourists are advised to buy tickets for excursions in advance via the Internet or the Parliament mobile application. This is more convenient, since there may be long queues at the box office and not everyone may get tickets. In the mobile application you can also find information about tickets, history, architectural features and take a virtual tour of the building.
Ticket prices for the Hungarian Parliament building in 2019
- for adults (non-EU citizens) - 6,700 forints;
- for students (non-EU citizens, from 6 to 24 years old) - 3,500 forints;
- for children under 6 years old - free;
- for citizens of Hungary and the EU - 3,500 forints;
- for Hungarian and EU students - 1900 forints.
To receive a discount ticket, you must present the appropriate document. Groups can visit the building by pre-registration.
Hungarian Parliament building on Google panorama
Visiting rules and dress code
The following is prohibited in the Parliament building:
- bring flags, badges and symbols of other states;
- make noise, listen to music loudly, sing and demonstrate;
- eat, drink and smoke;
- sit on stairs, on furniture, kneel or lie on the floor;
- touch coronation regalia;
- bring firearms and bladed weapons, ammunition, explosive substances, as well as substances that may stain the property of parliament and other visitors.
When visiting, you should dress in classic clothing. You cannot come in swimsuits, short shorts, skirts, etc.
You must go through a security check upon entering the building. All large bags and suitcases are subject to inspection.
Photo and video recording can be carried out throughout the building, except for the domed hall and the security control point area. If the rules are violated, visitors may be denied entry and the tour.
Barrier-free access is provided for people with disabilities. Pets are not allowed, but blind visitors are welcome to bring a guide dog.
How to get there
The Hungarian Parliament building is located at Kossuth Square 1-3.
It is easily accessible by public transport. You can get to the Kossuth Lajos tér stop:
- by tram number 2;
- on trolleybuses - No. 70, 78;
- by bus number 15;
- by metro - line M2.
You can order a taxi in Budapest through the Uber and Taxify mobile apps.
You can also rent a car, travel time from the airport. Franz Liszt is about 40 minutes.
Route from the airport to parliament - Google Maps
Hungarian Parliament building: video
Basic moments
The need to build a new mansion for the country's parliament arose in 1873, when two cities located on opposite banks of the river decided to unite. Construction lasted for 19 years, and finishing work was completed only in 1904. Although more than a century has passed since the opening of the architectural monument, the building of the Hungarian Parliament continues to be the largest in Hungary and the largest government residence in Europe. It stretches 268 m long and 123 m wide, and the internal premises have an area of 17,745 m².
The huge structure has a central dome, the spire of which rises 96 m from the ground. On either side of it there are wings where there are halls for parliamentarians and conferences. The majestic mansion has 29 staircases, 13 entrances, 13 elevators, 27 gates and 10 courtyards.
The architecture of the Hungarian Parliament building is eclectic. It harmoniously combines neo-Gothic traditions and Parisian Beaux Arts - a style that emerged in the mid-19th century and continued the traditions of the French Baroque and Italian Renaissance. The facade of the architectural structure is decorated with sculptures depicting Hungarian and Transylvanian rulers. When the country followed the socialist path, the spire above the central dome was decorated with a five-pointed ruby star. The mansion looks especially beautiful from the river side. In order for the huge building to fit completely into the frame, it must be shot from the opposite side of the Danube.
Hungarian Parliament at dusk
Construction of the Hungarian Parliament building
It was decided to build the building of the Hungarian Parliament when Buda and Pest merged into a single urban agglomeration - Budapest. The land chosen for construction was on the left bank of the Danube below the Margaret Bridge. The Hungarian authorities held a competition of architectural projects, and the Hungarian specialist in Gothic architecture, Imre Steindl, was declared the winner. He had great authority in the city, since the New Town Hall building had already been built according to his design for Budapest.
Construction of the Hungarian Parliament building began in 1885. Initially they wanted to open it for the 1000th anniversary of Hungary, that is, in 1896. But the construction turned out to be so large-scale and costly that for the holiday the builders were able to erect only the main domed hall, which has a height of 27 m and a diameter of 20 m.
The grand opening took place in 1902, but the architect did not live to see this joyful moment for only five weeks. It took about two more years to finish the building without the interior, and finally, in 1904, everything was completed. According to reporting documents, forty million bricks and forty kilograms of gold were spent on the construction of the Hungarian Parliament building.
What can you see inside
The entrance to the Hungarian Parliament building is located on the side of the square named after Lajos Kossuth. Visitors enter through the Lion Gate. The offices and halls look no less luxurious than the facades. Like medieval palaces, they are decorated with colored mosaics, stained glass, stucco, carvings and gilding. There are bright carpets on the wide staircases, many rich chandeliers and elegant candle lanterns are displayed in the rooms, and the walls are decorated with paintings, tapestries and paintings. The building houses a museum telling the history of Hungarian parliamentarism.
The largest hall is decorated with sculptors of the Hungarian kings. One of the main symbols of Hungarian statehood is kept here - the ancient crown of St. Stephen. It was placed on the head of the first king of Hungary in the year 1000 and since then has been used in the accession ceremonies of all the kings who have ruled in this country. Next to the crown are other symbols of royal power - a sword, a scepter and an orb. And near the royal regalia you can see the guard of honor dressed in historical uniform.
Tourist information
The Hungarian Parliament building is open to visitors every day. From April to October people are allowed here: on weekdays from 8.00 to 18.00 and on weekends from 8.00 to 16.00. From November to March - any day from 8.00 to 18.00. Every day from 9.45 to 16.00 there are excursions around the building of the Hungarian Parliament, which last 45-50 minutes. For Russian-speaking travelers they start at 12.30 on Sundays and at 15.15 on other days. Children under 6 years old can visit the building for free.
To avoid queuing for tickets, you can purchase them in advance online. This is very convenient, since the network always has information about the number of remaining tickets for any day. When the purchase is paid for, just print out a copy of the electronic voucher and then show it at the entrance.
How to get there
The building of the Hungarian Parliament stands in the center of the capital of Hungary, on Lajos Kossuth Square, 1-3. It is easy to reach on foot from the M2 metro station “Kossuth Lajos ter”. Trams No. 2 and DH, trolleybuses No. 70 and 78 and buses No. 15 and 115 also go here.
Updated 03/07/2019
The building of the Hungarian Parliament is depicted on almost every second souvenir brought from Budapest. It is one of the most visited attractions in the capital, which you can admire endlessly both from the outside and from the inside. By the way, not a single sightseeing tour of the city can take place without at least a cursory inspection of the Hungarian Parliament.
History of the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
The building of the Hungarian Parliament was built over 19 years according to the drawings of Imre Steindl, its construction was completed in 1904. It is the longest building in Hungary and one of the largest government residences in all of Europe. The length of the Parliament building is 268 meters, width - 123 meters, and the highest point is at the level 96 meters. The Hungarian Parliament looks truly majestic. Many architectural experts believe that the Hungarian Parliament is very similar in appearance to the Palace of Westminster in London. Whether this is true or not, judge for yourself. I haven’t gotten to London yet, so I haven’t seen the famous Westminster with my own eyes.
On the territory of the Hungarian Parliament there is:
- 10 yards;
- 13 entrances;
- 29 stairs;
- almost 700 halls and offices.
Photo of Parliament - the perfect place for a photo
The main entrance to the Hungarian Parliament building is located on Lajos Kossuth Square (Kossuth Lajos tér), and the most photographed part of it is from the Danube side. Although it is better to examine the parliament in detail and walk around it from all sides. But to see the majestic building in its entirety, and even to fit it into one photo, you will have to cross one of the bridges over the Danube.
The evening illumination and illumination of the building are so professionally designed that many tourists specially come to the observation decks after dark. The brightly illuminated parliament reflected in the waters of the Danube is a truly mesmerizing sight. You will find an equally beautiful picture if you come to Városliget Park at night.
- Thousands of people took part in the construction of the building; 40 million bricks and 40 kilograms of gold were used in its construction.
- The architect of the Hungarian parliament was unable to see his creation in person, as he became blind before the construction was completed.
- From the mid-20th century until the collapse of the USSR, the spire of the Hungarian Parliament building was decorated with a red star, following the example of the towers of the Moscow Kremlin. After Hungary turned to the West, it was removed.
- The main state symbols of Hungary are kept in the domed hall of the parliament. This is the crown of St. Stephen, the scepter, the orb and the sword. The hall itself is decorated with statues of 16 Hungarian kings and rulers.
Tours of the Hungarian Parliament
Tours of the interior of parliament are held every day from 9:45 to 16:00. Two excursions are offered for Russian-speaking tourists: at 12:30 and also at 15:15. Tickets can be purchased in advance online to avoid wasting time in line at the box office and to avoid running out of seats. Here you can find out how many tickets and for which excursion are available on a particular day. After paying the cost of the ticket, you need to print it out immediately. With this e-voucher you can go straight to the entrance and wait for the tour of the Hungarian Parliament to begin.
This is interesting! Two flags hang above the entrance to the Hungarian Parliament building. One - red, white and green - is the flag of Hungary. The second is blue - the flag of the Székely region. This is an unrecognized national-territorial autonomy on the territory of Romania. The Székelys lived and still live in Transylvania, which until 1920 was part of Hungary.
Entrance fee
- For adults (non-EU citizens) – 5,200 forints;
- for students (from 6 to 24 years old) – 2,600 forints;
- for children under 6 years old – free;
- for EU citizens - 2,000 forints;
- for students from EU countries - 1,000 forints.
You will also be charged an electronic fee of 220 forints per ticket.
Useful information about the Hungarian Parliament
Official site: parliament.hu(there is a version in English).
Opening hours for visitors
Monday - Friday - from 08:00 to 18:00
Saturday-Sunday – from 08:00 to 16:00
Monday - Sunday - from 08:00 to 16:00
How to get there
You can get to the Hungarian Parliament building by almost all types of public transport in Budapest:
Metro - M2 (station Kossuth Lajos tér).
Bus - No. 15, No. 115 (Kossuth Lajos tér stop here and below).
Tram - No. 2.
Trolleybus - No. 70, No. 78.
There is a wonderful place near the parliament where they cook very tasty food. Read where to eat in Budapest.
Hungarian Parliament on the map
Do you want to take a walk around Budapest in the evening and learn many interesting facts about it? Sign up for a tour.
Always yours, Daniil Privonov.
Apply for a Tinkoff ALL Airlines card and take part in the drawing for a round-the-world trip. 3000 rubles in miles as a gift to everyone!
.
Looking for a hotel or apartment? Thousands of options at RoomGuru. Many hotels are cheaper than on Booking
And his symbol. The article provides a detailed description and photo of the Hungarian Parliament building.
Parliament - Országház
The Parliament building was built in the neo-Gothic style by the famous romanticist of this architectural movement, architect Steindl. This beautiful building was erected as a symbol of the birth of the new capital almost immediately after the unification of the three cities. Construction lasted from 1885 to 1904. The construction of this magnificent structure took 40 million bricks, 40 kg of gold and more than half a million precious stones. This construction involved 100,000 workers.
The Parliament Building has a symmetrical façade and a large central dome. The facade is decorated with statues of famous historical figures of Hungary.
Opening hours for excursions
- April-October from 8.00 to 18.00, daily.
- November-March from 8.00 to 16.00, daily.
Cost of visit
- Adults (non-EU citizens) - HUF 5,400
- Students and children from 6 to 24 years old (non-EU citizens) - 2800 forints
- Children under 6 years old - free
Important information for tourists
- It is prohibited to enter Parliament with large bags. There is a search at the entrance.
- Photos are prohibited in the Great Dome Hall.
- Parliament may not accept tours during government events.
- When visiting Parliament, it is recommended to observe the minimum dress code and be clean and neatly dressed.
- It is prohibited to behave loudly, bring flags and other bright visual attributes.
Tour of Parliament
A tour of the Parliament is visited annually by 1.5 million tourists. After purchasing tickets, groups of 50 people are formed. The approximate tour time is about an hour.
The interior of the Hungarian Parliament is richly decorated, even pompous staircases and halls with beautiful furniture and decoration.
Main points of the tourist excursion:
- The tour begins with a beautiful 17th-century staircase lined with statues, stained glass windows and rich, decorative frescoes. The staircase ends with a beautiful view of the newly renovated Kossuth Square.
- After this, you should definitely explore the hall of the Upper Chamber - oak panels, gilded decorations, beautiful furniture and excellent acoustics. The furniture is arranged in a horseshoe shape. Behind the main figure there are beautiful frescoes.
- Hall of the Upper Chamber - interesting sculptures and the largest handmade carpet in Europe.
- The Dome Hall is the heart of the Parliament, which houses the Hungarian royal regalia - one of the oldest in Europe. The hall is beautifully decorated with stained glass windows and sculptures of Hungarian rulers.
- The grand staircase is the final chord of the excursion, 96 steps covered with red carpets, decorative stained glass windows and granite columns.
