Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city of impressive beauty and rich history. From its dramatic architecture to its intriguing cultural peculiarities, this city offers endless surprises. It is not just a place for tourists; It is a city with a deep soul, composed of fascinating facts that make it one of the most attractive destinations in Europe. Here are 11 sensational facts about Budapest that will make you want to explore every corner of this fascinating metropolis.
1. A city of three cities
Did you know that Budapest was not always a city? It was formed on November 17, 1873, when three different cities, the advantage, the Buddha and Obuda) unified. Initially called Peta-Buda, this combination of historical settlements quickly became one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in Europe. Pest was known for its flat, bustling streets, while Buddha, with its hills, offered a more peaceful and majestic atmosphere. Obuda, the oldest part, still has remains of Roman settlements. Together, these three cities created the Budapest that we know today.
2. 23 Districts: A unique urban tapestry
Budapest is divided into 23 districts, each with its own different character, name and number. For example, District I is the home of the Buddha Castle and many medieval streets, while District V is the heart of the plague, with the Hungarian Parliament and the bustling Váci Utca commercial street. Some districts even have unique nicknames: District VII, for example, is known as the Jewish neighborhood, and district VIII is called the “rejuvenating” part of the city due to its continuous revitalization.
If you are planning a visit, you can easily book Budapest accommodations in any of these districts, each offering a different portion of the city’s life.
3. The language barrier
Hungarian is the official language in Budapest, and is infamous because it is difficult to learn, especially for those who used to use Indo -European languages. With its unique alphabet and its intricate grammar rules, it can be a challenge for tourists. However, do not let this dissuade you. Many locals speak English and will find that communicating in tourist areas is generally easy. In addition to Hungarian, you can listen to languages such as Croatian, Russian, Serbian and even Ukrainian, since Budapest is home to several minority communities.
4. The tallest building in Budapest
The Budapest horizon may not be as high as some important cities, but it is home to the highest building in Hungary. The Mol Campus, standing at 143 meters, is the headquarters of the Mol Group, an important oil and gas company. This elegant and modern building contrasts with the historical and classical architecture that dominates a large part of the city, offering a vision of the contemporary side of Budapest.
5. A legislative wonder: the Hungarian Parliament
One of Budapest’s most emblematic buildings is the Hungarian Parliament, and is not just because of its impressive neo -Gothic architecture. It is also the third largest legislative building in the world, following the Pentagon in the Palace of the United States and Romania. With 691 rooms and 365 towers, it is a great symbol of the Hungarian state, every tower that represents one day of the year. Visitors can make guided tours to explore the interior opulent of the building.
6. A monumental design
The design of the Parliament was selected through a competition to commemorate the millennium of Hungary in 1896. Designed by Imre Steindl, the Gothic Renaissance style of the building is proudly on the banks of the Danube River. His impressive facade, with his needles and intricate details, has made it one of the most photographed reference points of Budapest.
7. An La Unesco river shore
Budapest’s Riverfront is a Unesco World Heritage site, and it is easy to see why. The majestic Hungarian Parliament, the fisherman’s bastion and Buddha’s castle align on the banks of the Danube, creating a picturesque and historical panorama. A cruise through the Danube offers an impressive view of the city, especially when the reference points are beautifully illuminated at night.
8. The New York Café: History Term
New York coffee, established in 1894, is one of the most beautiful coffees in the world. Located in the heart of the city, this Italian Renaissance coffee has been an icon for literary figures, artists and musicians throughout history. The adorned ceiling, opulent candlesticks and decadent cakes make it a perfect place to enjoy a little luxury while immersing themselves in the rich history of Budapest.
9. Budapest’s many nicknames
Budapest is known for several affectionate nicknames. The “Eastern Paris” is one of the most common, due to its elegant boulevards, historical coffees and romantic atmosphere. Another popular nickname is the “city of the bathrooms”, thanks to its richness of thermal baths. The unique combination of architecture, culture and thermal water of the city has earned a reputation as one of the most charming cities in Europe.
10. Curative powers: Palinka and thermal baths
Budapest locals swore for their thermal baths and traditional drinks, which believe they have healing properties. Palinka, a fruit brandy, is a beloved Hungarian spirit often consumed during social meetings, which was thought to cure what affects you. The thermal baths of the city, such as Széchenyi and Gellért, are equally famous for their therapeutic benefits, attracting visitors from all over the world to relax and rejuvenate.
11. The world capital of the thermal bath
Speaking of thermal baths, Budapest is often known as the “world capital of the thermal bath.” The city is above more than 118 thermal springs, which pump 70 million liters of thermal water a day. The Romans and the Ottomans recognized the healing properties of water, and centuries later, Budapest baths remain a central part of daily life, combining well -being with leisure in an exclusively Hungarian way.
