- Where is the city of Budapest
- History of Budapest
- How to get to Budapest
- What to see in Budapest
Budapest is the cultural, financial and tourist center of Hungary, characterized by its colorfulness and interesting history. The city attracts a significant number of tourists every year due to its unique architecture and healing mineral springs. Knowing where Budapest is, you can always make an exciting trip to the capital of Hungary.
Where is the city of Budapest
The geographic landmarks of the city are the lowlands of the Carpathian basin, surrounded by the South Slavic mountain ranges, as well as the Alps and Carpathians. Budapest was founded in 1873, when the local government decided to merge cities such as Pest, Obuda and Buda. At the same time, the Danube today serves as a natural border between the two parts of the city, forming hilly and flat landscapes.
In the region of the Buda Mountains is the highest point of the capital of Hungary called Janos (530 m). The presence of mineral springs in Budapest is explained by the fact that the city is located on a tectonic fault. The territory of the city includes an insular part, consisting of seven islands.
In the immediate vicinity of Budapest, there are the cities of Szentendre, Gödöllö, Esztergom and others.
History of Budapest
The past of the city is closely connected with the Celtic settlement of Ak-Ink, the first mention of which dates back to the 1st century BC. NS. Later Ak-Ink was renamed Aquincum, and the Romans who came to these places gave the settlement the official status of the capital of the province of Pannonia.
In the middle of the 5th century, the territory of modern Budapest was inhabited by the Huns and Ostrogoths, who established their own customs and traditions. Three centuries later, representatives of the Hungarian tribes ruled in Aquincum, who renamed the city Buda.
After the Mongol invasion in 1241, Budapest was badly destroyed and rebuilt for a long time. Only in 1247, by order of King Bel IV, a powerful defensive structure was erected, subsequently protecting the city from foreign invaders.
In the first half of the 16th century, Pest, Obuda and Buda were occupied by Turkish troops, whose rule lasted until the 17th century, after which the Austrian Habsburg dynasty ruled the city. The period of prosperity and rapid development of Budapest falls on the 18th century, and in the 19th century the city's fate changed dramatically when Hungary became a Soviet republic.
During World War II, Budapest suffered serious damage due to the invasion of the city by German troops. Thanks to the colossal efforts of the local authorities, the architectural appearance of the capital of Hungary was restored 20 years later.
How to get to Budapest
If you decide to visit Budapest, it is better to first decide on the type of transport. Among the most common methods are the following: airplane; train; bus.
The plane is considered the fastest option, as there are many direct flights between Ferihegy airport and major cities of Russia. Travel time depends on the starting point of departure. Departing from Moscow, you will be in the capital of Hungary in 2.5 hours.
A comfortable train leaves the Russian capital to Budapest several times a week, which arrives at the main railway station in 38 hours. Also, you can easily get to Budapest by train from almost all European cities.
Traveling by bus is suitable for those who like long journeys. Regular bus service is established between Hungary and Russia, Ukraine, Belarus.
What to see in Budapest
As a rule, tourists tend to visit the Hungarian capital in order to see the many attractions. Be sure to include in your program:
- The parliament building, erected in the 19th century, is an example of the neo-Gothic architectural style.
- Basilica of St. Stephen, built in honor of the first king of Hungary. The temple is one of the most beautiful buildings in Budapest and has a luxurious interior.
- The Szechenyi Baths is a unique complex that includes indoor and outdoor pools with hot thermal water, saunas and relaxation areas.
- Andrássy Avenue is a place without which the architectural appearance of Budapest cannot be imagined. The Opera House, Mora Jokai Square, Oktogon, Liszt Ferenc Square, Drexler Palace, Art Palace, numerous thematic museums - all this can be seen on Andrássy Avenue, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Vaidahunyand Castle, worthy of special attention, as on its vast territory, buildings of different architectural trends, a circus, chapels and a zoo are surprisingly combined.
- Matthias Cathedral, built in the XIV century, after which the building was reconstructed several times, but has not lost its magnificence and originality. And next to the temple is the famous Fisherman's Bastion.
- Mount Gellert, at the top of which there is an observation deck offering an amazing view of Budapest. In the vicinity of the mountains, you can not only enjoy picturesque landscapes, but also take baths with water from thermal springs, as well as see the majestic monument dedicated to the Hungarian ruler Istvan.
A trip to the capital of Hungary will give you real pleasure. Budapest leaves an indelible mark on tourists with a magical atmosphere, luxurious architectural ensembles and excellent resources in the field of health tourism.
