Budapest History Museum

The Budapest History Museum, also known as Budapesti Történeti Múzeum, represents a fascinating journey through the centuries of the history of the Hungarian capital. Located in the magnificent setting of Buda Castle, the museum spans four floors and offers a wide collection of artifacts that testify to the rich and complex history of Budapest. The museum occupies the southern section of Buda Castle, a Baroque structure built between 1749 and 1769, which was once the residence of Hungarian kings. This location gives the museum a unique historical and architectural aura, making the visit an experience that combines history, art, and scenic beauty. Buda Castle itself was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, emphasizing its cultural and historical importance. The museum’s exhibition path unfolds through different eras, starting from prehistoric artifacts to the present day. On the ground floor, visitors can explore the medieval halls, where Gothic statues of courtiers, squires, and saints are displayed, discovered during excavations in 1974. Among the most fascinating pieces is the Royal Chapel, a 15th-century architectural gem with ribbed vaults and Gothic details that testify to the wealth of the city’s medieval past. One of the highlights of the museum is the descent into the underground levels, where the ruins of the medieval royal palace are located. Here, visitors can admire the ancient Gothic halls and the palace crypt, which represent the only surviving internal parts of the palace from the destruction during World War II. The museum is known for its collection of ceramics and Roman artifacts, documenting the importance of Aquincum, the ancient Roman city that stood where Budapest is today. These artifacts offer a detailed look at the daily life and cultural practices of the Romans in Hungary. Among the permanent exhibitions, “Budapest – Light and Shadow” is particularly noteworthy. This exhibition offers a journey through a thousand years of the capital’s history, highlighting key moments and iconic figures that have shaped the city. Other exhibitions include the Gothic statues of Buda Castle and the heraldic tapestry of the dukes of Anjou, which represents a rare and valuable example of medieval textile art.