11 Sensational Facts About Budapest You Didn’t Know
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city known for its stunning beauty and rich history. From its impressive architecture to its unique cultural characteristics, Budapest is a city full of surprises waiting to be discovered. Here are 11 fascinating facts about Budapest that will inspire you to explore every corner of this captivating city.
1. A City Of Three Cities
Budapest was formed on November 17, 1873, by the unification of three separate cities—Pest, Buda, and Óbuda. Pest was known for its lively streets, Buda for its peaceful hills, and Óbuda for its Roman heritage. Together, these three cities created the vibrant and dynamic Budapest we know today.
2. 23 Districts: A Unique Urban Tapestry
Budapest is divided into 23 districts, each with its own distinct character and attractions. From the historic Buda Castle in District I to the bustling Váci utca shopping street in District V, each district offers a unique experience for visitors.
3. The Language Barrier
Hungarian is the official language in Budapest, known for its complexity. However, many locals speak English, making communication easy for tourists. You may also hear other languages like Croatian, Russian, and Serbian in the city.
4. The Tallest Building In Budapest
The MOL Campus is the tallest building in Budapest, standing at 143 meters. This modern skyscraper stands out among the city's historic architecture, offering a glimpse of Budapest's contemporary side.
5. A Legislative Marvel: The Hungarian Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament is the third-largest legislative building in the world, with 691 rooms and 365 towers symbolizing each day of the year. Visitors can explore its grand interiors on guided tours.
6. A Monumental Design
The Hungarian Parliament's Gothic Revival design by Imre Steindl is a highlight of Budapest's architecture, standing proudly on the Danube River.
7. A UNESCO Riverfront
Budapest's riverfront, lined with historic landmarks, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A cruise along the Danube offers a stunning view of the city's beauty.
8. The New York Café: A Piece Of History
The New York Café, dating back to 1894, is a historic café known for its luxurious ambiance and rich history, attracting artists and literary figures over the years.
9. Budapest’s Many Nicknames
Budapest is affectionately called the "Paris of the East" and the "City of Baths" for its elegant streets, historic cafés, and thermal baths.
10. Healing Powers: Palinka And Thermal Baths
Budapest locals believe in the healing properties of Palinka, a traditional fruit brandy, and the city's thermal baths like Széchenyi and Gellért, known for their therapeutic benefits.
11. The Thermal Bath Capital Of The World
Budapest is renowned as the "Thermal Bath Capital of the World," sitting atop numerous thermal springs that provide millions of liters of thermal water daily for wellness and relaxation.
