St. Stephen's Basilica
Budapest
St. Stephen's Basilica, located in Budapest, Hungary, is a monumental Roman Catholic basilica named after Stephen I, the first King of Hungary. It is the largest church in Budapest and the third largest in Hungary, renowned for its neo-Renaissance architecture designed initially by József Hild and completed by József Kauser in 1905 after a long construction period marked by setbacks such as the collapse of the dome in 1858. The basilica stands 96 meters tall, symbolically equal in height to the Hungarian Parliament Building, reflecting the equal importance of spiritual and worldly matters. Inside, visitors can admire intricate mosaics, bronze reliefs depicting St. Stephen's life, stained glass works by Miksa Róth, and the significant reliquary containing St. Stephen's mummified right hand. The basilica's dome offers panoramic views of Budapest, accessible by elevator or stairs. It also serves as a cultural venue, hosting regular organ concerts and seasonal events such as the Christmas fair with spectacular light displays. Despite damage during World War II and subsequent restorations, the basilica remains a vital religious and tourist landmark within Budapest's UNESCO World Heritage Buffer Zone.
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Tipp: Visitors are advised to visit the basilica during weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Tickets for dome access can be purchased on-site, but booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. During Advent, the Christmas fair in front of the basilica offers a festive experience with special light shows. Organ concerts are held weekly on Mondays, providing a unique cultural experience. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. The basilica is accessible via public transport and has visitor facilities including guided tours.
Interessante Fakten
- •The basilica houses the mummified right hand of St. Stephen, Hungary's first king, preserved in a reliquary known as the Holy Right.
- •At 96 meters tall, it is one of Budapest's two tallest buildings, a height matched only by the Hungarian Parliament Building.
- •The dome collapsed in 1858 due to structural issues, requiring a complete rebuild under architect Miklós Ybl.
- •The basilica's façade features an 1893 mosaic titled 'Our Lord on the Throne with Angels' designed by Mór Than and created by Salviati of Venice.
- •During World War II, the basilica's cellar served as a shelter for refugees and housed valuable Hungarian National Archives.
- •The basilica's dome offers panoramic views of Budapest, accessible by 364 steps or an elevator.
- •It hosts regular organ concerts every Monday, continuing a tradition of musical significance since its consecration.
Geschichte
The site of St.
Stephen's Basilica was originally home to the Hetz-Theater, known for animal fights, before a temporary church was built in the early 19th century.
The Lipótváros Parish was established around 1817, initiating fundraising for a permanent church.
The great flood of 1838, which provided refuge on this elevated ground, motivated local donations to build the basilica.
Construction began in 1851 under József Hild in a neo-classical style but was interrupted by the 1858 dome collapse.
Miklós Ybl revised the plans to a neo-Renaissance style, and after decades of work and delays, the basilica was completed in 1905.
It was consecrated in 1905, with the keystone laid in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph I.
The basilica sustained damage during World War II but was restored in the following decades, including a major renovation completed in 2003.
Ortsführer
Main Entrance and Tympanum1893
The main entrance features a tympanum mosaic called 'Our Lord on the Throne with Angels' designed by Mór Than in 1893, with an inscription below reading 'Ego Sum Via, Veritas et Vita' (I am the way, the truth, and the life).
Dome and Panoramic Viewpoint1905
The basilica's dome rises to 96 meters and can be accessed by elevator or climbing 364 steps. The dome interior is decorated with mosaics depicting the Lord God, Christ, prophets, and evangelists by Károly Lotz.
Sanctuary and AltarpieceEarly 20th century
The sanctuary features mosaics allegorizing the Holy Mass by Gyula Benczúr and bronze reliefs of St. Stephen's life by Ede Mayer. The canopy altarpiece was designed by József Kauser and decorated with a statue of St. Stephen by Alajos Stróbl.
Pulpit and Interior DecorationsEarly 20th century
The pulpit, designed by József Kauser, along with stained glass windows by Miksa Róth and the pipe organ built by József Angster's factory, are highlights of the interior decoration and craftsmanship.
Treasury and Sacramental Chapel1988 (treasury), 2010 (chapel)
Originally opened in 1988 in the southern tower's ground floor, the treasury displays valuable ecclesiastical artifacts. In 2010, the Sacramental Chapel was consecrated, providing a quiet space for prayer and meditation.
Kontakt
Telefon: (06 1) 311 0839