Budapest Photo Gallery
Buda Castle District (Part 2)
After visiting the Matthias Church, Fisherman's Bastion, and the neighbouring streets, I followed the tourist path south towards the Royal Palace.
The original castle was destroyed 86 times over its long history from just after the Mongol invasion to more recent times. It was last destroyed during World War II and what we see today was rebuilt from the 1950s onwards in the style of what it may have looked like in the 19th century. While this may not be obvious looking at the buildings from the outside, it becomes more clear when you venture inside. The interior decor is simple and fit for the cultural institutions that occupy the space.
This walk begins from Parade Square (Disz ter), which was used for military parades in the 19th century. Reconstruction continues as I walk towards Sandor Palace.
Sandor Palace is a restored Neo-Classical mansion that is now the president's official residence.
Beside it is a viewing terrace where you can see Pest, the Danube, the rest of the palace's long promenade, and the expensive short funicular if you don't want to climb up.
Continuing on, I headed past the ornamental gateway built in the early 20th century and down the Hapsburg Steps to the main part of the Royal Palace. It now has various uses, including the National Gallery, a library, and a museum.
One of the reasons why I didn't pay to go up the Matthias Church is because this long stretch of promenade offers plenty of free city views. It gets even better at the Citadel later in the day.
I walked through the corridor next to the National Gallery and into a series of courtyards. The first stop is the neo-Baroque Matyas Foountain, which depicts the king and his hunting party. Luckily, it escaped major damage during the war. Across the courtyard is the Royal Riding Hall, now an event venue.
I next headed through the Lion Gate to reach the rear courtyard. It is guarded by 4 lions designed by Janos Fadrusz. In here are the National Széchényi Library, St. Stephen's Hall, and Budapest History Museum.
After a long morning exploring the Castle District from north to south, I exited by staircase back down to the riverfront.
