Focus on a city : Budapest - Hungary

The Eastern Europe has lots of beautiful landscapes you could visit. And one of the city you should visit is Budapest, and with this article, you'll ba eble to enjoy your trip over there.

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Short presentation

Budapest, Hungary's enchanting capital, is nestled in the heart of Central Europe. With an area of around 525 square kilometers, the city stretches majestically along the banks of the Danube. Its cosmopolitan population exceeds 1.7 million, making it the country's most populous city. Divided into 23 districts, Budapest harmoniously blends its rich historical heritage with a dynamic modernity.

Famous for its thermal baths, such as the Gellért and Széchenyi baths, the city takes advantage of its natural hot springs. Iconic landmarks include the Hungarian Parliament, the Fishermen's Bastion and the Chain Bridge. Over the centuries, Budapest has witnessed many important historical events, from the Austro-Hungarian Empire to the 1956 Revolution.

Geopolitically, Budapest plays a crucial role as Hungary's political, economic and cultural center. It is also a strategic hub in Central Europe, connecting trade routes and cultures. Prestigious universities and cultural festivals enliven the intellectual and artistic scene.

The city's exquisite gastronomy blends Hungarian traditions with foreign influences. Its wines, folk music and lively nightlife add a unique touch to its charm. The seven bridges spanning the Danube link the two banks of the city, Buda and Pest, symbolizing the unity of this diverse and captivating metropolis.

Historical background

Budapest's history dates back to ancient times, when Celtic tribes populated the region. Later, the Romans established the city of Aquincum on the banks of the Danube, making the area an important Roman colony. Over time, the Roman Empire declined and the region came under the control of barbarian tribes and nomadic peoples.

In the 9th century, the Magyars, a group of tribes of Finno-Ugric origin, founded the Kingdom of Hungary. At that time, the Budapest region consisted of several small villages. In the 13th century, King Béla IV of Hungary ordered the construction of fortifications to protect himself from Mongol invasions, marking the beginning of the rise of Buda, one of Budapest's twin cities.

In 1541, the Ottoman Empire captured Buda, and the city remained under their control for over 150 years, while Pest remained under Habsburg rule. The Ottoman period came to an end in 1686, when Christian forces recaptured Buda.

In the 19th century, Budapest underwent a period of major development with the union of Buda, Pest and Óbuda into a single city in 1873. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Budapest became the political and cultural heart of Hungary. The Hungarian Parliament and other emblematic buildings were constructed during this period.

The First World War and the dismantling of the Austro-Hungarian Empire had an impact on the city, but it continued to prosper. World War II, however, brought its share of destruction, particularly during the siege of Budapest in 1944-1945.

After the war, Budapest came under Soviet influence as the capital of the Hungarian People's Republic. In 1956, the city was the scene of a revolt against the Communist regime, but this was put down by the Red Army.

After the fall of Communism in 1989, Budapest regained its status as an independent capital and embarked on a period of modernization and economic development. Today, Budapest is a dynamic European metropolis, proud of its rich and complex history, reflected in its architecture, culture and daily life.

Must-see places

• Hungarian Parliament

One of the city's most emblematic symbols, this imposing neo-Gothic building on the banks of the Danube is an architectural masterpiece. Guided tours of its sumptuous interiors are available.

• Buda Castle

Dominating the city from Buda Hill, this historic complex houses the Royal Palace, the Hungarian National Gallery and the Fisherman's Bastion, offering spectacular panoramic views.

• St. Stephen's Basilica

This majestic neoclassical basilica is dedicated to the first king of Hungary, St. Stephen. Its dome also offers a breathtaking view of the city.

• Gellért and Széchenyi Baths

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths. The Gellért Baths offer an artistic experience with their mosaics, while the Széchenyi Baths are the largest and oldest in the city.

• Hungarian State Opera

This sumptuous opera house is an architectural and artistic masterpiece. Guided tours allow you to discover its magnificent interiors and learn about its history.

• Chain Bridge

The first permanent bridge linking Buda and Pest, this 19th-century suspension bridge is a symbol of the city and offers superb views of the Danube.

• Avenue Andrássy

An elegant tree-lined avenue, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll find luxury boutiques, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Opera House.

• Váci Street

A lively pedestrian shopping street in the Pest district, ideal for shopping and souvenirs, with quaint cafés and restaurants.

• Heroes' Square

Located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, this imposing square is surrounded by statues representing Hungarian historical figures and is a major gathering place.

• Shoes by the Danube

A poignant memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust, situated on the banks of the Danube, recalling Budapest's dark history during the Second World War.

These sites are just some of the many wonders Budapest has to offer. Every corner of the city is brimming with history, culture and beauty, creating a rich and unforgettable tourist experience.

Celebrities linked to Budapest

• George Soros (born in 1930)

Soros is a renowned investor and philanthropist. He founded the Quantum Fund and is renowned for his theory of financial markets. Through his Open Society Foundation, he has supported social, democratic and educational causes worldwide.

• Ferenc Puskás (1927 - 2006)

Puskás is one of the greatest footballers of all time. Nicknamed the "Captain Galactic", he played a key role in the Hungarian national team of the 1950s and was a key figure at Real Madrid, winning numerous titles.

• Béla Bartók (1881 - 1945)

Bartók was a renowned composer and pianist. One of the founders of ethnomusicology, he fused elements of Hungarian folk music with modernist innovations in his classical music.

• Ernő Rubik (born in 1944)

Rubik is the inventor of the famous Rubik cube. His three-dimensional puzzle became a worldwide phenomenon and stimulated creativity and problem-solving in millions of people.

• Zsa Zsa Gabor (1917 - 2016)

Gabor was an actress and media personality. She became a Hollywood icon, starring in numerous films and becoming famous for her exuberant charm and public appearances.

These personalities left an indelible mark in their respective fields and contributed to Budapest's worldwide renown.

In order to conclude, if you have any ideas for improving this type of article (adding a section, for example), please let me know in the comments. Also, if there's a place in the world that you particularly like and would like me to write another article about, I invite you to submit your ideas too.

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