Lajos Batthyányi Eternal Flame

"Batthyány's Sanctuary Lamp (Batthyány Lajos-örökmécses) is a poignant national monument located at the intersection of Báthory Street and Hold Street in Budapest's Lipótváros district. The monument stands on the site of the former courtyard of the New Building, where Count Lajos Batthyány, Hungary's first Prime Minister, was executed on 6 October 1849. Batthyány was a key figure during the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 and his execution by firing squad, after the failed revolution, became a symbol of Hungary’s struggle for independence. In 1905, the design for the monument was chosen by architect Móric Pogány, featuring a large lantern symbolizing the eternal remembrance of Batthyány’s sacrifice. However, due to the disruption of World War I, the construction was delayed, and the monument was eventually unveiled on 6 October 1926. The ceremony was attended by István Lebó, who was the last living member of the Hungarian army to have served during the 1848 revolution. Over the years, the monument has become a focal point for political demonstrations, particularly in 1941, 1943, and 1988, serving as a place for public expression and remembrance of Hungary’s turbulent history."