Parliament Building
Budapest
The Hungarian Parliament Building, located on Kossuth Square in Budapest on the Pest side of the Danube River, is the seat of Hungary's National Assembly and a symbol of national pride. Designed by architect Imre Steindl in a neo-Gothic style with Renaissance influences, it was completed in 1904 after nearly two decades of construction. Its symmetrical façade, central dome, and ornate details reflect influences from the Vienna City Hall and the Palace of Westminster in London. The building features 691 rooms, 27 gates, and 29 staircases, with lavish interiors including frescoes, stained glass, and over 200 offices. The dome's height of 96 meters commemorates Hungary's millennium in 1896. Today, one of its two identical parliamentary halls hosts legislative sessions, while the other is used for ceremonies and tours. The Parliament Building is also adorned with 242 sculptures portraying Hungarian rulers and historical figures, making it a rich cultural and architectural treasure.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Booking guided tours or tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long waits. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The building has limited access during parliamentary sessions, so checking the official website for opening hours and special events is advisable.
Interesting facts
- •The building contains over 40 million bricks and half a million precious stones.
- •Its dome height of 96 meters symbolizes the year 896, marking the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin.
- •There are 242 sculptures on the façade, including statues of Árpád, Stephen I, and John Hunyadi.
- •The Parliament has two identical halls; one is still used for sessions, the other for ceremonies and tours.
- •It was one of Budapest's tallest buildings until 2021, when surpassed by the MOL Campus.
History
Budapest was unified in 1873, prompting the need for a representative parliament building symbolizing Hungary's sovereignty.
An international design competition in 1881 selected Imre Steindl's neo-Gothic plan, inspired by the Palace of Westminster.
Construction began in 1885, with the building inaugurated in 1896 on Hungary's millennium anniversary, though completion took until 1904.
The architect Steindl lost his sight and died before its completion.
Post World War II, the legislature became unicameral, and the building's usage has evolved, including the removal of a communist-era red star from the dome in 1990.
Place Guide
Main Façade and Entrance1904
The main façade faces the Danube River and features statues of Hungarian rulers and military leaders, with coats of arms above the windows. The official entrance is on the east side at Kossuth Square, guarded by two lions.
Central Dome1904
The Renaissance Revival dome rises 96 meters high, symbolizing Hungary's millennium. It is the architectural centerpiece, blending Gothic and Renaissance elements.
Parliamentary Halls1904
There are two symmetrical parliament halls; the southern hall is used for legislative sessions, while the northern hall hosts ceremonies, conferences, and guided tours. Each hall reflects the building's neo-Gothic style and historic function.
Interior Decorations1904
Inside, visitors can admire frescoed ceilings, stained glass windows by Miksa Róth, glass mosaics, and the bust of architect Imre Steindl. Ornate staircases and richly decorated rooms showcase Hungary's artistic heritage.
Contact
Phone: (06 1) 441 4000
