National Assembly Office Building

"Initially designed as a luxury apartment building, this structure near the Parliament in Budapest gained prominence due to its proximity to the ministerial district. Over the years, it transitioned from private residences to an office building for high-profile government functions. For many, it is remembered as the headquarters of the MSZMP during the socialist era. The construction of the Parliament in the early 20th century significantly boosted the value of surrounding plots, leading to the development of this luxurious property on what was then Rudolf Square. Severely damaged during World War II, the building underwent major reconstruction influenced by the establishment of a new government district around the Parliament. Redesigned in a modernist style, it reopened as the Ministry of the Interior's offices. In 1951, it housed the ÁVH and later became the headquarters of the National Police Headquarters. Eventually, the MSZMP occupied the building, using it as their central office until 1990. One of its notable features is the mural "Workers' State," painted by Aurél Bernáth in 1970. This artwork, located in the building’s auditorium, includes depictions of key party-state leaders like János Kádár and György Aczél, alongside Imre Nagy and Tibor Déry, albeit with subtle details to downplay their identities due to their controversial legacies. The building also became a stage for significant historical moments, such as the cremation of János Kádár in July 1989, just a month after Imre Nagy’s reburial, symbolizing the turbulent period of Hungary's political transformation. Following the regime change, the property was transferred to the Office of the National Assembly. Today, it functions as the Office of the Representatives, continuing its role in Hungary's administrative and political history."