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Jan 15 21 tweets 7 min read Read on X
Did you know this building has over 20 kilometers of stairs inside?

It is the Parliament Building in Hungary.

But that's only one of the many architectural wonders of Hungary.

Here are more and a few that may just shock you. 🧵 This is the Interior of the Hungarian Parliament Building Photo by Redstone Hill on flickr
1. St. Stephen's Basilica, Budapest

This grand neoclassical church houses the mummified right hand of Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen.

Climb its dome for a 360° panorama of Budapest that will take your breath away. Image
2. Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest

Looks like a fairytale castle, but it was built in 1902 purely as a viewing terrace.

Its whimsical towers offer enchanting views of the city. The Halászbástya (Hungarian pronunciation: [ˈhɒlaːzbaːʃcɒ]) or Fisherman's Bastion is one of the best known monuments in Budapest, located near the Buda Castle, in the 1st district of Budapest. It is one of the most important tourist attractions due to the unique panorama of Budapest from the Neo-Romanesque lookout terraces.  Photo by Brian Teater on pinterest.
3. Parliament Building, Budapest

A Gothic Revival masterpiece reflecting in the Danube, it’s the third largest parliament building in the world.
4. Matthias Church, Budapest

The colorful tiled roof steals the show, but inside, this 700-year-old church hosted royal coronations, including King Charles IV, the last Habsburg monarch. Matthias Church, Budapest  Photo by @krenn_imre /@archi_tradition
5. Archdiocese Library of Eger, Eger

One of Hungary's oldest libraries, this hidden gem in Eger houses over 160,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts and maps.

The library's ornate frescoed ceilings make it a haven for history and art lovers alike. Archdiocese Library Of Eger Credit: Porch & Peony | Joyful Living, Home Decor, Hosting & Travel Tips
6. Pannonhalma Archabbey, Pannonhalma

One of the oldest historical monuments in Hungary, this abbey was founded in 996 AD.

Its library holds over 400,000 rare books. Pannonhalma Archabbey Credit Pinterest pin/713890978447800594/
7. Szeged Cathedral, Szeged

This neo-Romanesque cathedral was built as a promise to God after a devastating flood in 1879.

Its vast interior is a jaw-dropping mosaic of colors. Credit: Image 2 of 42 from gallery of Szeged Cathedral Renovation / 3h architecture + Váncza Muvek Studio. Photograph by Balázs Danyi
8. Buda Castle, Budapest

Once home to Hungarian kings, it hides a labyrinth of caves beneath it.

The eerie underground network was used as a hospital during World War II. Credit: @Architectolder
9. Esztergom Basilica, Esztergom

Hungary's largest church boasts a dome that towers 100 meters high.

Climb up for a view spanning three countries! The Primatial Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Adalbert Credit: By Villy Public Domain
If you are enjoying this thread on Hungary, consider subscribing to my free newsletter for exclusive insights and deeper dives into fascinating topics:
thecultureexplorer.beehiiv.com/subscribeThis is a late 1800s apartment complex in Budapest.
10. Debrecen Reformed Church, Debrecen

The “Calvinist Rome” features Hungary's largest Protestant church.

Its twin towers dominate the flat Great Plain landscape. Image
11. Gödöllő Palace, Gödöllő

This baroque gem was a favorite retreat of Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”).

Its lavish halls hosted some of Europe’s most dazzling balls.
12. Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest

Not just stunning architecture—this neo-Baroque bathhouse is also one of the largest medicinal spas in Europe.

But here is something you may not know.

Budapest' lies on a fault line where the Buda Hills meet the Great Hungarian Plain, creating an extensive network of thermal springs.

These springs feed the city's famous baths, like the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Gellért Baths, and Rudas Baths, which have been enjoyed for centuries.

The Romans first built bathhouses here, but it was during Ottoman rule that the tradition truly flourished, leaving behind architectural gems like the Király and Rudas Baths.

Budapest's thermal heritage is both a natural and cultural marvel.Credit: @Love__Europe
13. Kecskemét Town Hall, Kecskemét

This Art Nouveau wonder has a façade that seems to dance with floral motifs.

The uniquely Hungarian style is a surprise delight. Image
14. Tokaj Wine Cellars, Tokaj

The region famous for its sweet Tokaji wine has centuries-old underground cellars.

Some are carved into volcanic rock, creating a perfect natural wine cooler.
15. Great Synagogue (Szeged Synagogue), Budapest

A dazzling fusion of Art Nouveau and Moorish Revival styles, the Szeged Synagogue is Hungary’s second-largest synagogue and one of Europe’s most beautiful.

Its intricate stained-glass windows and stunning blue dome create a serene atmosphere, while the acoustics make it a popular venue for concerts.Credit: @MagicalEurope
16. Sopron Firewatch Tower, Sopron

This medieval tower, symbolizing the “most loyal town,” has been guarding the city since the 12th century. Its spiral staircase reveals layers of history. Credit: @2x2sometimes5
17. Pécs Cathedral, Pécs

A mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, this cathedral stands on the site of an ancient Roman forum.

Its crypts still hold secrets from antiquity. Image
18. Hollókő Old Village, Hollókő

A UNESCO site, this perfectly preserved village feels like stepping into the 17th century.

Its residents still follow centuries-old traditions.
Hungary's architecture is full of surprises and stories.

Which of these gems would you visit first? Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest

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