Hungarian Parliament Building
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What people say
Pedro Pereira
Available for hire
"The Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház), located on Kossuth Square in Budapest, is one of Hungary's most significant landmarks and a popular tourist destination. Designed by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl, the building was completed in 1902 in a neo-Gothic style, influenced by the Vienna City Hall and Renaissance elements from the Maria vom Siege Church in Vienna. The Parliament Building, which has been the largest building in Hungary since its completion, stretches 268 meters long and 123 meters wide.
The idea to build a new parliamentary building came after the unification of Budapest in 1873. A competition was held, and Steindl’s design was chosen, partly due to its resemblance to the Palace of Westminster in London. Construction began in 1885, with the building inaugurated on the 1,000th anniversary of Hungary in 1896. However, the building was not fully completed until 1904. Steindl, unfortunately, went blind during the project and died before the building was finished.
The Parliament Building is known for its symmetrical façade, a central dome, and its intricate interior design. It contains 10 courtyards, 13 elevators, 29 staircases, and 691 rooms, including over 200 offices. The building stands 96 meters tall, a symbolic height representing Hungary’s millennium and the conquest of the Kingdom of Hungary in 896.
Inside, visitors can see the impressive hexadecagonal central hall and two adjoining chambers: one used for current National Assembly sessions, and the other for ceremonies, conferences, and tours. The Holy Crown of Hungary has been on display in the central hall since 2000. The building is decorated with numerous statues, including of Hungarian rulers, military figures, and important historical figures like Árpád, Stephen I, and John Hunyadi. The façade is adorned with 242 sculptures, including those of Transylvanian leaders and Hungarian kings.
The Parliament Building is accessible via the Kossuth Lajos Square Metro and tram stations. Nearby attractions include the Kossuth Memorial, the equestrian statue of Francis II Rákóczi, and a memorial to the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. The building is also prominently featured on Hungarian postage stamps from 1917 to 1921."
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Sofia B
Available for hire
"the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary, as well as home to the crown Jewels and a popular tourist attraction. The building is now for it’s stunning exterior as well as impressive interior.
The parliament has been the largest building in Hungary since its completion in 1904. The architectural style of the building was influenced by The Palace of Westminster in London.
A 45-minute guided tour of the Parliament building is available with an audioguide or a professional tour guide
Good to know:
A security check is required prior to entering the House of Parliament. You must not enter the building with large bags, packages or objects capable of causing personal injury
For the protection of the Holy Crown, it is strictly forbidden to take photographs in the great Dome Hall. However, taking pictures or using video cameras is allowed in other parts of the building.
Due to parliamentary or state events, visits may be cancelled even as late as immediately prior to admission.
Opening hours:
Off-season: 8am to 4pm
Peak-season: 8am to 6pm
Prices:
EEA citizens: 6000 HUF / €15
non-EEA citizens: 12000 HUF/ €30,5
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Sevinch Muminova
"Designed by Imre Steindl and completed in 1902, the Parliament, featuring the Eclectic style, boasts 691 lavishly decorated rooms. Such a mesmerizing building that make feel all power of the country.
Children under the age of 6 can enjoy free admission to the Parliament. Visitors arriving with a child under 6 can request family tickets by emailing tourist.office@parlament.hu.
On the official website, individual visitors have the option to purchase tickets for touring the Hungarian Parliament. Annually, over seven hundred thousand visitors embark on the 45-minute guided tour of the Parliament, a significant symbol of Hungary and its democracy. The tour covers key areas such as the Main Staircase, the Dome Hall, the chamber, and the lounge of the Chamber of Peers. Additionally, visitors gain insights into the building's history, architecture, and the art it houses."
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