One of Hungary's most important religious structures and one of the city's top tourist destinations is St. Stephen's Basilica, also known as Lipót City Parish Church. The Hungarian king who established the Hungarian kingdom is Saint Stephen, and the basilica bears his name.
It was constructed between 1855 and 1905, and three renowned architects marked the structure throughout its 54-year construction. The skyscraper steadily emerges, metre by metre, from the Danube bank, but it doesn't overpower its surroundings.
Interesting information can be found in the massive building's recent history and distant past. Hollywood blockbusters are also filmed in front of the basilica and the Piazza.
The basilica's Treasury is considerably more than just a typical museum:
As you approach the basilica, the elevator leading to the second-floor treasury of religious objects is to your right.
The Holy Right Chapel, also known as the Holy Dexter—which houses the mummified right hand of St. Stephen, an object of immense devotion—is behind the main altar and to the left of it. It was found in a Bosnian monastery and returned to Hungary by Habsburg empress Maria Theresa in 1771.
Learn about the history of the basilica as a token of gratitude:
In the 18th century, the basilica's location was occupied by a well-known theatre for its animal fights. Before the church's construction, Budapest was devastated by a massive flood in 1838 that became known as the ''great flood of Budapest.'' During the catastrophe, hundreds of people found sanctuary in the square, elevated from Budapest's flat plain. The survivors believed their survival to be a miraculous miracle and gave money to have a church erected where they had found refuge.
The remains of Ferenc Puskás, the most well-known football player in Hungary, are kept here:
A quick journey to the tomb of the great Hungarian football star Ferenc Puskás is unquestionably recommended for sports enthusiasts. He was included among the top 100 football players in the world by FIFA in 2004.
Every Monday, organ performances are held in the basilica, providing a unique experience for all music lovers:
Hungary's relationship to religion and spirituality is extremely clearly illustrated by the Organ Concert at St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest. This concert is a little celebration of the nation's culture and roots as well as an intimate interpretation of classical masterpieces. For visitors to the city and admirers of great culture, a perfect, unforgettable experience combining Christianity, statehood, architecture, and music is created. The programme will take you on a unique journey through time and space under the direction of Miklós Teleki, one of today's top organists and classical musicians in Hungary. Prepare yourself for a musical performance and a cultural encounter that will linger with you for a long time between the sacred walls.
Explore the famous Basilica Square:
A popular summertime location is St. Stephen Square in front of the Basilica, which is paved with ornamental stones in geometric patterns. There are terraces with parasols, plants, and the Basilica's fountains, all of which add to the Mediterranean-style ambiance.
While relaxing, follow Tom Hanks' footsteps as he filmed the scenes for the movie Inferno or purchase rose-shaped ice cream from the renowned Gelato Rosa. Remember to snap pictures!
Szent Istvan ter 1, Budapest 1051 Hungary