Liberty Square

"Széchenyi István Square is a diverse area that blends business and residential elements, with a mix of architectural styles and significant historical landmarks. Situated in the heart of Budapest, it is bordered by notable structures, including the United States Embassy and the headquarters of the Hungarian National Bank, which is designed in a historicist style. Several buildings on the square are designed in the Art Nouveau style, with some works by renowned architect Ignác Alpár. The square is home to several important monuments. One of the most prominent is a statue of Ronald Reagan, reflecting Hungary’s appreciation for the former U.S. president’s role in ending the Cold War. Also located in the square is a monument to Harry Hill Bandholtz, an American army officer, and a sculpture commemorating the Soviet liberation of Hungary during World War II. In 2020, a statue of U.S. President George H. W. Bush was unveiled, further cementing the square's connection to international figures. A controversial monument in the square is the Memorial for Victims of the German Occupation, which portrays Hungary as an angel attacked by a German eagle. Critics argue that this symbolism glosses over Hungary's active role in the Holocaust. In response, a counter-monument was installed in 2014, featuring photos of Hungarian Holocaust victims who were deported to Auschwitz. Historically, the square occupies the site of the former barrack-prison "Újépület," where Hungarian Prime Minister Lajos Batthyány was executed in 1849 after the failed Hungarian Revolution. The original building was demolished in 1897, and the square was developed in its place. Today, Széchenyi István Square is an important location in Budapest, marked by its rich history, diverse monuments, and architectural beauty. "

"La Plaza de la Libertad en Budapest destaca por la imponente Estatua de la Libertad, un homenaje emotivo a héroes nacionales, el Monumento a los Luchadores Antifascistas y espacios verdes. Desde la Plaza Kossuth cercana, se aprecian vistas impactantes del Parlamento de Budapest. En resumen, la plaza es un lugar histórico y emotivo, con monumentos significativos y una conexión profunda con la lucha por la libertad."

"Lots to see in this nice square. The old stock exchange, US embassy, the monument to the Russians, a statue of Ronald Regan and a miniature Kermit the Frog. There is also a ridiculous monument nearby to commemorate those who fought against the Germans in WWII when we all know that the Hungarians greeted the Germans with bouquets, not bombs."