Hungary’s capital was originally two separate cities divided by the Danube River. Buda on the west bank covers several hills and Pest sits on the flat land of the opposite bank. This post features three major sites we explored in the eastern part of the city. 

Hungarian Parliament – The 3rd largest parliament building in the world is the home of the legislature and guardian of the royal jewels, including the Hungarian Holy Crown. The elliptical-shaped Imperial Crown of St. Stephen, used since the 12th century for the coronations of Hungarian monarchs, has been displayed in the parliament building since 2000. We were hoping to get a glimpse of the crown, but the building was closed to visitors during our time in the capital. 

Heroes Square – We walked over to the Millenary Monument, erected in Heroes Square in the 1920s to celebrate Hungary’s 1000th anniversary, is dedicated to those who lost their lives while fighting for the country’s independence. Archangel Gabriel, holding the Hungarian Holy Crown, stands on top of the 36-meter-tall column. The statues at the base of the column represent seven Magyar chieftains, who are considered to be the founders of the country. The colonnades behind surround 14 statues of Hungarian royalty and other historical figures. Heroes Square, the largest public square in the city, and bordering Andrássy Avenue are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

St. Stephen’s Basilica – This early 20th century church, named after Hungary’s founder and first king, took more than 50 years to complete. 

The basilica can seat up to 8,000 worshippers and features an impressive cupola, as well as many mosaics, frescoes, statues, and stained glass. 

Like most visitors, we made sure to see King Stephen I’s right hand which has been mummified, adorned with jewels, and kept inside an ornate golden box in one of the chapels.