Buda Castle
The majestic Buda Castle rises above the city of Várhegy, the hill of Budapest. The Castle has always had a turbulent history which reflects the different ups and downs of the history of Hungary. Today the Castle, which is often called the Royal Palace, is home to a number of cultural institutes, including two museums: the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest Historical Museum. – https://www.budapest.org/en/things-to-do-budapest/buda-castle/
Visiting the Castle
The main structure of the Buda Castle is more austere compared to its previous versions. The interiors kept that abundance of ornamentations and decorations, which was typical of the past. Despite its history made of continuous destructions and reconstructions, the Castle is still an imposing complex facing the Danube for about 300 meters. The castle is made of a number of wings, going from wing A to F, arranged around the Lion Courtyard, which is surrounded by the National Library, the National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum. Most of visitors access to the Buda Castle from St. George Square to the north side, where the funicular connects the hill with the Chain Bridge and Pest. A decorative gate from the beginning of the 20th century separates the square from the Palace. Near the door there is a bronze statue featuring a large bird representing the Kingdom of Hungary perched atop a pedestal.
The Hungarian National Gallery
The Hungarian National Gallery occupies four wings of the palace, where there are the artworks made by Hungarian artists, from Middle Age to today. Do not miss a visit to the collections of 1300 and 1400, exhibited in the former throne room. There is also a very accurate collection of Hungarian Romanticist paintings.
The National Library
To the west of the courtyard, opposite the Gallery, there is the National Library which occupies the F wing of the palace. The Library was founded at the beginning of 1800 by Ferenc Széchényi who donated his private collection which was made of more than 1500 books and manuscripts. Today the library holds a copy of every single book published in Hungary.
Budapest History Museum
The most southern wing of the palace is home to the Budapest History Museum, which covers the history of the city from prehistory to modern days. The museum offers the opportunity to see some ruins and reconstructions of the Medieval palace, including the Gothic chapel and the Knights’ Hall.
