Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is considered by UNESCO to be "one of the world's outstanding urban landscapes". With remains dating back as far as Roman times, the great periods in its history are clearly illustrated.
Located on the banks of the River Danube, Budapest was originally three separate cities: Buda and Óbuda were built on a rocky spur on the right bank, and Pest on the flat terrain of the left bank. The three cities were merged in 1873. The city of Budapest was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1987 and included the Banks of the Danube and the Buda Castle Quarter. An extension to the site, which added Andrássy Avenue and its historic surroundings to the property, was approved by UNESCO in 2002.
At the centre of the quarter, within the city walls, is the Church of the Assumption of Buda Castle. Still in use today, it has hosted three coronations and numerous royal weddings, including that of King Matthias I who lends the church its unofficial name, Matthias Church. At the end of Liberty Bridge is the Gellért Thermal Bath, a testament to Budapest’s lively 19th century bathing culture. The Art Nouveau building provides an insight into the city’s early 20th century architecture and features the work of famous artists of the time. On the Pest side of the riverbank, the striking Parliament building is a truly iconic symbol of Budapest, each part of the building conveying important political and historical messages.
Szechenyi Baths in Budapest is the largest and most iconic thermal bath complexes in Europe. Opened in 1913, it boasts 18 pools, including thermal, swimming, and plunge pools. Renowned for its neo-baroque architecture, Szechenyi offers a unique blend of relaxation, wellness, and cultural immersion.
St Stephen’s Basilica of Budapest is one of the most beautiful and significant churches and touristic attractions of the country. This is partly due to its historical heritage, of being dedicated to the holy king St Stephen who was also the founder of the Hungarian state, and partly to the architectural and artistic value of the building itself.
On the Pest side of the riverbank, the striking Parliament building is a truly iconic symbol of Budapest, each part of the building conveying important political and historical messages.
The scenic view of the banks of the Danube as part of the historic urban landscape, the Buda Castle Quarter with its medieval and characteristically Baroque style, and the urban architectural ensemble of Andrássy Avenue come together in unity in this rich World Heritage site.