Budapest

Fast Facts

Location: In north central Hungary on the banks of River Danube
Attraction Type: Historic place
Significance: Capital city with remarkable history and rich cultural heritage
Best Time to Visit: March to October
How to Reach: By air; alternatively by rail and road from European destinations
Nearest International Airport: Ferihegy International Airport, Budapest

Budapest is a city that radiates with beauty. It is a big metropolis that extends its arms in warm embrace to one and all. It is a city where history and heritage blends harmoniously with modernity and spontaneity. Hungary Budapest the 'Pearl of the Danube' has as its backdrop the magnificent Gellert Hills. In this capital city of Hungary you would feel your spirit absolutely free, so free that this city has been looked upon as the 'capital of freedom'.

History of Budapest

The river Danube flowing from north to south through the center of Budapest helped in the establishment of this beautiful city. The comparative ease of crossing this river and the natural protection offered by the Gellert Hill helped the earliest settlers of the third and fourth centuries BC to safely inhabit both banks of this river. After Magyar Conquest, the either side of Danube was collectively called 'Pest' meaning 'kiln' or 'stove' referring to the hot springs found near Gellert Hill. The name 'Buda' developed in the 13th century during the Mongol invasion. To protect themselves from these invaders King Bela IV ordered the construction of fortresses and castles all over his kingdom. To set an example he built his Royal Palace on Buda Hill later termed the Castle Hill.

This Royal Palace or Castle Hill reached its zenith during the reigns of Sigismund of Luxembourg and King Matthias in the second half of the 15th century. King Matthias also developed Pest simultaneously. Later, during Turkish occupation baths were constructed with cupolas and engravings which still are existent. Another significant historical evidence of Budapest city is the Chain Bridge built over River Danube in the latter half of the 19th century. This Chain Bridge helped in the unification of Pest, Buda, and Obuda territories to form Budapest.

Significance

Budapest comprising Buda on the western side and Pest on the eastern side of Danube respectively also includes three riverine islands of Obuda, Csepel, and Margaret. Hungary capital Budapest with its remarkable history and a rich cultural heritage is correctly referred to as the 'Heart of Europe'. Its magical charm would certainly entice you to visit this city at every opportunity.

Budapest Activities

At every step you tread on this fabulous city you discover something new for yourself. Be it daytime visits to the historical buildings or night outs in the in the musical festivals, Budapest is always waiting to be explored and appreciated. In the daytime, visit the Castle District famous for its Church of Our Lady, Trinity Square, Fisherman's Bastion, and magnificent Baroque buildings of 19th century. After visiting Castle District proceed to Royal Palace of Budapest to have a glimpse of excavated relics of Gothic sculptures, and a visit to the Hungarian National Gallery. Make a tour of the Memento Park which is a display of statues belonging to the communist era.

Spring time in Budapest from 19th February 2009 to 3rd May 2009 is particularly eventful if you are a connoisseur for arts. The Art of Gustav Moreau would be in display for your enrichment at the Pergamon and Ionic Halls in Budapest Museum. Every year from 3rd week of March to 1st week of April the Budapest Spring Festival would enthrall you with dance shows, musical performances, and extraordinary exhibitions.

Accommodations and Dining

Budapest in Hungary, being the national capital and an important financial, cultural and political center, attracts a large number of tourist from all over the world. It has a wide choice of hotels catering to all categories of travelers. Andrassy Hotel, Benta Hotel, Gerand Hotel, Hotel Hoe, and Hotel Unio are some of the notable accommodations for you to select from.

Cuisine of Budapest is a pleasant combination of European and Asian varieties. 'Goulash', a thick soup, is a typical Hungarian recipe which must be tried out. 'Porkolt' or home made stew is another delectable item which must never be missed. Grilled pike-perch or trout served with almond, chicken paprika and fish soup are simply delicious. Goose liver, either fried or cold, is a specialty in Bucharest restaurants. Desserts are worth a special mention in the list of Hungarian food. Gundel pancakes, strudels, 'turos csusza' – pasta with sour cream and curd, and 'somloi dumplings' are the items to savor.

Related Links :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERqzzl-51Qw: Check out the breathtaking architecture and the other popular attractions of this capital city of Hunary in this comprehensive video!