Buda Castle

Overview

Buda Castle is the historic Royal Palace crowning Castle Hill on the Buda side of the Danube. Founded in 1265, its current Baroque-neoclassical form houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, with panoramic views over the river.

Highlights

• Hungarian National Gallery: Hungarian art from the medieval period to the 20th century.
• Danube panorama: The terrace overlooking the Chain Bridge and Parliament is unforgettable.
• Turul bird: The mythical bird of Hungarian legend perches on the Habsburg Gate.

History

Built by King Béla IV after the Mongol invasion (1245), the castle was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt—by the Ottomans, Habsburgs, and during WWII. The current reconstruction dates from the 1950s–60s.

Visitor Tips

• Funicular: The historic Budavári Sikló funicular climbs from Clark Ádám tér.
• Free grounds: The terraces and courtyards are free; museums charge.
• Duration: 1.5–3 hours.