Budapest Hungary

We had only a few hours before we had to head to the train station to get to our next destination.  We (My work colleagues and I ) woke up early wanting to explore a city none of us has been to before.  Our hotel was right in the middle of the Buda District which had a tremendous amount of sights to see.  

Castle Hill is a historic district located in the heart of Budapest, Hungary. It is home to a number of important cultural and historical landmarks, including the Buda Castle, the Matthias Church, and the Fisherman’s Bastion.

The history of Castle Hill dates back to the medieval period when it was a strategic fortification built to protect the city from invading armies. Over the centuries, the castle was expanded and renovated by various rulers, including King Matthias Corvinus and the Habsburgs.

During the Ottoman occupation of Hungary, the castle was captured by the Turks in 1541 and held for over 150 years. After the Turkish occupation, the castle was restored and expanded by the Habsburgs in the Baroque style, giving it the grandeur and opulence that we see today.

During World War II, Castle Hill suffered significant damage from the bombings, but it was restored in the decades that followed. Today, the district is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination known for its stunning architecture, scenic views, and rich cultural heritage.

Visitors to Castle Hill can explore the Buda Castle, which houses several museums, galleries, and government offices, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. The Matthias Church, which dates back to the 14th century, is also a must-see attraction, as is the Fisherman’s Bastion, a neo-Gothic terrace that offers panoramic views of the Danube River and the city below.

 

A view from outside of our hotel.

On the way to Castle Hill...

I finally found a place in the world that serves pizza for breakfast. 

Tour of the Castle District

Being short on time my colleagues and I jumped on a mini tour bus for a trip through the Castle Hill.  This was the best way to make a fast trip through the sights on a cold rainy day.  

On the way up the hill.

Fishermen’s Bastion

Matthias Church (Mátyás Templom)

Hungarian Presidential Palace

Hard to believe you can get this close the the Hungarian Presidential Palace.

On the way back to the hotel.

Hungarian Presidential Palace