The building of the Hungarian Parliament. Luxurious building of the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest. Guided tour of the Parliament

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 for 268 m in length and 123 m in width, and the interior has an area of ​​17,745 m².

The huge building has a central dome, the spire of which rises 96 m from the ground. On the sides of it are wings, where there are halls for meetings of 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 arose in the middle of the 19th century and continued the traditions of the French Baroque and the Italian Renaissance. The facade of the architectural structure is decorated with sculptures depicting Hungarian and Transylvanian rulers. When the country followed the socialist path, a five-pointed ruby ​​star adorned the spire above the central dome. The mansion looks especially beautiful from the side of the river. In order for the huge building to fit completely into the frame, it must be filmed from the opposite side of the Danube.

Construction of the building of the Hungarian Parliament

The building of the Hungarian Parliament was decided to be built when Buda and Pest merged into a single urban agglomeration - Budapest. Lands on the left bank of the Danube below the Margaret Bridge were chosen for construction. The Hungarian authorities held a competition of architectural designs, and the Hungarian specialist in Gothic architecture, Imre Steindl, was declared the winner. He had great authority in the city, since the building of the New Town Hall had already been built according to his project for Budapest.

The construction of the building of the Hungarian Parliament 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 by the holiday the builders managed to build 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 without interior spaces, and, finally, in 1904 everything was completed. According to accounting documents, forty million bricks and forty kilograms of gold were spent for the construction of the Hungarian parliament building.

What can be seen inside

The entrance to the building of the Hungarian Parliament is from the side of the square named after Lajos Kossuth. Visitors enter through the Lion's Gate. Offices and halls look no less luxurious than facades. Like medieval palaces, they are decorated with colorful mosaics, stained-glass windows, stucco, carvings and gilding. Bright carpets lie on the wide staircases, many rich chandeliers and elegant candle lanterns are exhibited in the rooms, and the walls are decorated with murals, tapestries and paintings. The building houses a museum that tells about 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 1000 and has since been used in the ceremonies of ascension to the throne of all the kings who ruled in this country. Other symbols of royal power are placed next to the crown - a sword, a scepter and an orb. And near the royal regalia, you can see a guard of honor dressed in historical uniforms.

Information for tourists

The building of the Hungarian Parliament is open to visitors daily. From April to October, they 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 guided tours 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.

In order to avoid standing in line for tickets, they can be purchased in advance via the Internet. This is very convenient, since the network always has information about the number of remaining tickets for any day. When the purchase is paid, it is enough to print 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 Hungarian capital, on Lajos Kossuth Square, 1-3. It is easily reachable 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.

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 main attractions of the country. More than half a million tourists visit the Parliament every year.

History of creation

The decision to build the building was made in 1843. However, these plans were thwarted by the soon-to-be-launched Hungarian Revolution. After the unification of Buda and Pest in 1873, the government returned to this idea. For the construction, a site was chosen on the eastern bank of the Danube, between the Szechenyi and Margit bridges.

According to the results of the qualifying competition for the position of architect, Imre Steindl, a great admirer of the neo-Gothic style, was chosen. As conceived by the master, the building 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 is a majestic building, 268 meters long and 123 meters wide.

Architecture lovers often compare this residence to the Palace of Westminster in London.

Architectural features

The parliament building covers an area of ​​about 18,000 square meters. meters: almost 40 million bricks were used for its construction. The aim of the project was to show the talents of local craftsmen, so the residence is entirely built from Hungarian materials.

No funds were spared for the construction, only about 23 kilograms of gold and 30,000 cubic meters were used to decorate the interior. meters of carved ornaments.

The facade of the parliament is decorated with 90 sculptures depicting the great historical figures of Hungary, and the length of the red carpet inside the building is almost 3 kilometers.

Domed Hall of the Parliament

According to the project, the work should have been completed as early as 1896, but by that time only the central domed hall had been built, which is the basis of the entire building. In the same year, another anniversary of the conquest of Hungary by the Magyar tribes was celebrated in it.

The hall impresses with its size: the diameter of its dome is 20 meters, and the height reaches 27 meters. On both sides of the dome are the meeting rooms of the Parliament. Since the Hungarian Parliament is no longer bicameral, the second meeting room has been turned into a conference room. The room is decorated with 162 sculptures depicting the rulers of Hungary and Transylvania.

Since 2000, the small museum of the Parliament, inside the residence, has kept the royal symbols of power - the scepter, orb, sword and, of course, the crown of St. Stephen. Every hour for 20 minutes there is a guard of honor dressed in historical uniforms. 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 windows and gilding in the medieval style.

Virtual tour of the parliament building

Excursions

The building of the Hungarian Parliament 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 attractions are also worthy of attention: the Kossuth memorial, monuments to Ferenc Rakoczy II, Imre Nagy, Attila Jozsef and participants in the 1956 uprising in Hungary.

If you come to the parliament building after dark, you can see a bewitching picture. Evening illumination of the residence and the reflection in the waters of the Danube make it look like a magic castle.

Guided tours of the Hungarian Parliament building are held daily. For guests from Russia, Russian-speaking guides work at 12.30 and at 15.30.

During the week of plenary sessions, visits to the residence may be limited. You can find out about all the changes in the work of the 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's mobile application. This is more convenient, as there may be long queues at the box office and not everyone can get tickets. In the mobile application, you can also get acquainted with ticket information, history, architectural features and take a virtual tour of the building.

The cost of tickets to the Hungarian Parliament building in 2019

• for adults (non-EU citizens) - 6700 forints;
• for students (non-EU citizens, from 6 to 24 years old) - 3500 forints;
• for children under 6 years old - free of charge;
• for citizens of Hungary and the EU - 3500 forints;
• for students in Hungary and the EU - 1900 forints.

To receive a reduced ticket, you must present the appropriate document. Groups can visit the building by prior registration.

Hungarian Parliament Building on Google Panorama

Visiting rules and dress code

In the parliament building it is prohibited:

• bring flags, badges and symbols of other states;
• make noise, listen to loud music, sing and demonstrate;
• eat, drink and smoke;
• sit on stairs, on interior items, kneel or lie down on the floor;
• touch the crown jewels;
• bring firearms and cold weapons, ammunition, explosives, as well as substances that can stain the property of the parliament and other visitors.

When visiting, dress in classic attire. It is not allowed to come in swimwear, short shorts and skirts, etc.

Upon entering the building, you must go through a security check. All large bags and suitcases are subject to inspection.

You can take photos and videos in the entire building, except for the domed hall and the security control area. In case of violation of the rules, visitors may be denied entry and conduct a tour.

Barrier-free access is provided for people with disabilities. Pets are not allowed, but blind visitors are allowed to enter with a guide dog.

How to get there

The building of the Hungarian Parliament is located at the address: Kossuth Square, 1-3.

It is easily accessible by public transport. To stop "Kossuth Lajos tér" can be reached:

• 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 applications.

You can also rent a car, travel time from the airport. Franz Liszt is about 40 minutes.

Route from Airport to Parliament - Google Maps

Hungarian parliament building: video

At the end of the 19th century, the capital of Hungary, the city of Buda, was combined with Obuda and Pest into a single city - Budapest. The Danube became the central axis of the new city; many significant architectural buildings of the Hungarian capital were oriented towards it. One of the largest government buildings in the world, the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest, is also located here.

Parliament in Budapest. History and brief description

Ideas for the construction of this seat of parliament in Budapest arose immediately after the unification of cities in 1873. The building was erected in 1885-1904 according to the developments of the architect Imre Steindl. The Neo-Gothic building is 265 meters long, 118 meters wide and 96 meters high along the central dome. On the facade overlooking the river, neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance influences are noticeable. The central main portal of the building overlooks Lajos Kossuth Square. In its location and architectural style, the building resembles the famous Palace of Westminster.

The interior design and the scope of the premises are also striking. There are more than two hundred halls, 500 rooms, a dozen courtyards. Among this vast number of rooms, one can single out a large domed hall, in which receptions and solemn meetings of the parliament are held. The hall has a diameter of 21 meters. The vault at a height of 27 meters is supported by 16 groups of columns. The capitals of these columns contain sculptures of major Hungarian figures. The hall acts like the center of the building, the rest of the rooms are symmetrically from it.

The premises are decorated with sculptures, frescoes, paintings made by the best Hungarian artists. There are also tapestries and paintings of Lots, Rudnai, Munkachi.

Now tourists are freely taken to the building of the Hungarian Parliament with excursions. The position and grandeur of the building quickly made the Parliament a symbol of Budapest and one of the most famous sights in Hungary.

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 the majestic symbol of the independence and unity of the Hungarian nation - Hungarian parliament building.

Seven years after the unification of Buda, Pest and Obuda, in 1880 the National 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 the 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 went blind before completion and was unable to see his creation.

Parliament of Hungary organically fit into the space between the two bridges - the Margaret Bridge and the Chain Bridge. The main façade faces the Danube and features 88 sculptures of Hungarian kings and leaders. The main entrance overlooks Lajos Kossuth Square. It is called "Lion's Gate" - because of the sculptures that adorn it.

Like the British Parliament building, the style of the building is neo-gothic. The building covers an area of ​​18,000 sq. m. The building is 268 m long and 123 m wide. Its interior includes 10 courtyards, 13 elevators, 27 gates, 29 stairs and 691 rooms. The height of the building is 96 m, it is one of the highest in the city.

The building is not only of value in the architectural sense, but also of great historical significance. Here, under the dome, the Sacred Crown is kept, which is over a thousand years old!

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 building of the Hungarian Parliament, the photo of which is presented below, is a symbol and one of the main attractions not only of Budapest itself, but of the whole country. It is one of the largest government buildings in the world. Excursions are organized here for everyone, in connection with which hundreds of thousands of tourists come here every year. One of the halls contains the main values ​​of the country: the scepter, crown and mace of St. Stephen, who is the most respected ruler, because it was he who laid the foundations of the statehood of Hungary.

Prerequisites for construction

The state received the right to build its own parliament building in 1880. Since before that it was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, there was no similar building in Budapest. In this regard, it was decided to build a new building of the Hungarian Parliament from scratch. The authorities announced a competition in which 19 projects took part. Its winner was the work of a well-known neo-Gothic architect at the time, Imre Steindl. For the construction, a site was chosen on the banks of the Danube, located between the Margaret Bridge and the Chain Bridge. Construction work started in 1885.

erection

The construction of the facility lasted almost twenty years. Several thousand workers from all over the country took part in its construction. The building of the Hungarian Parliament was finally completed in 1904. Nevertheless, the first meeting of the state government in it was held ten years earlier. Then there were celebrations on the occasion of the celebration of the millennium from the day of the conquest of Hungary by the Magyars. 40 million bricks and 40 kilograms of gold were used to build the palace. Unfortunately, the architect Imre Steindl never saw his creation in its final form, because he did not live to that time, he died in 1902.

general description

The building of the Hungarian Parliament is made in neo-Gothic style. As conceived by the architect, its exterior was supposed to emphasize the greatness of the country, which at that time was on the wave of constant economic growth. In turn, the location on the banks of the Danube symbolized the hopes of the people for independence from Austria, as well as for cultural and political freedom.

The palace was built in the shape of a regular rectangle. Its dimensions in length and width are respectively 268 and 123 meters. The height of the main dome is 96 meters. It is believed that this figure contains some symbolism, because in 896 the country was conquered by the Magyars. The facade is made of light stone. It has 88 sculptures of personalities who played an important role in the history of the state. In addition, the facade is decorated with numerous columns, arches, cornices, towers and other architectural decorative elements.

Interior

The building of the Hungarian Parliament inside looks no less impressive and majestic than outside. Here, visitors can see a large number of paintings, mosaic floors, elegant stained-glass windows, panels and frescoes on the ceilings, beautiful lamps and much more. There are 691 rooms in the building. All rooms and halls are decorated with gold, expensive noble materials, precious woods and velvet. The floors are covered with expensive carpets. Directly under the central dome is the so-called Main Hall, where meetings were held and important laws were passed. It is decorated with sculptures depicting the history of the state, starting from the moment it was conquered by the Magyars. There are ten courtyards inside. You can get to the upper floors with the help of 13 elevators and 29 stairs. In order to enter the building of the Hungarian Parliament, 27 gates are provided. It should be noted that the side wings are symmetrical and have a similar interior. In one of them, meetings of the government are still held, and in the other - excursions for everyone.

Excursions

As noted above, the building is open to the public. Excursions are paid and are conducted by professional guides in eight languages. Their cost for adults is 4 thousand forints, and for children under the age of 6 years, admission is free. They take place almost every day, except for some public holidays. In this regard, it is recommended to clarify this point before going on an excursion to the building of the Hungarian Parliament.

Opening hours depend on the day of the week. For example, from Monday to Friday, entry is allowed from 8-00 to 18-00, and on Saturday and Sunday - from 8-00 to 16-00. On the days of plenary sessions, you can only go inside until 10 am. For tourists from our country, it is best to go here any day by 11-00, since this time is allocated for Russian-speaking excursions.

When visiting the building, you must follow the rules established by the security service. Every person who comes inside is carefully inspected by security personnel. It is recommended to take as few things as possible with you. Entrance with any kind of weapons, including gas cartridges, is prohibited. For the convenience of tourists, the building provides storage rooms and a wardrobe. It should also be noted that people with disabilities can also visit it. All that needs to be done in this case is simply to ask for help in buying a ticket at the box office. Visually impaired visitors are even allowed to enter with a guide dog.