▲ The Chain Bridge, also known as Széchenyi Bridge or Széchenyi Chain Bridge, was originally named after its patron and later commonly called the Chain Bridge due to its chain-link construction method. This bridge spans the Danube River, connecting Buda and Pest, serving as both a symbol and landmark after the cities' merger. The famous film "Gloomy Sunday" was also shot here multiple times.
▲ The Chain Bridge began construction in 1839 and was completed in 1849, spanning a total length of 380 meters. At the time of its completion, it was one of the world's longest-span bridges. The bridge's structure features chain-link supports, with pedestrian walkways on both sides and a central roadway for vehicles. Near the Pest side, the bridge is guarded by two stone lions at each end. These majestic lions, sculpted with resolute and grand postures, stand as sentinels day and night, now becoming iconic symbols of the Chain Bridge.
▲ Strolling along the Chain Bridge, you can admire the enchanting scenery of both Buda and Pest, the tranquil Danube River, the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, and the dreamy Fisherman's Bastion, as if stepping into a frozen historical painting. Whether in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, the beauty here has its own unique charm. At the Buda end of the Chain Bridge, there is a vertical cable car that takes you up to Castle Hill. On the Pest side of the bridge lies Széchenyi István Square, where you can marvel at the palace-like architecture of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Four Seasons Hotel.
▲ The city of Budapest is divided by the Danube River and is renowned as the "Pearl of the Danube." Board the Budapest Danube Boat Tour and enjoy breathtaking views from the deck as you cruise along this legendary river. During Hungary's National Day each year, the Chain Bridge is open exclusively to pedestrians, while fireworks light up the sky along the Danube, creating a spectacular sight—don't miss it if you're there!
▲ The lush green forests, the majestic and profound Baroque-style royal palace, the ancient and mysterious 700-year-old Matthias Church, the opera house beloved by Princess Sisi, and the Fisherman's Bastion symbolizing the seven tribes—all these breathtaking sights unfold before your eyes, telling tales of a thousand years.
▲ The Hungarian Parliament Building, built in the early 20th century with distinctive Neo-Gothic style, is one of Hungary's most magnificent and solemn architectural landmarks. For those seeking to understand Hungarian history and culture, the Hungarian Parliament Building is an essential destination.
▲ The Hungarian Parliament Building stands majestically with two elegant white stone towers adorned with intricate carvings. Inside, visitors can admire portraits of Hungary's historical figures and grand murals depicting significant events in Hungarian history. The building was designed and overseen by a renowned Hungarian architect.
▲ The building complex consists of a total of 691 halls and rooms, with 27 gates leading to ten courtyards, and staircases stretching over 20 kilometers in total length. The main halls are adorned with portraits and murals of famous figures from Hungarian history. The exterior walls are decorated with 88 sculptures. The Munkácsy Hall also displays large-scale paintings by renowned Hungarian artists.
▲ Perched atop Castle Hill, Buda Castle is one of Budapest's iconic landmarks. It once served as the residence for Hungarian royalty. Today, the central part of the palace has been converted into the Budapest History Museum, the National Library, and the National Gallery. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
▲ Buda Castle was originally built in 1242 on the west bank of the Danube River by the Hungarian king to defend against Mongol invasions. Later, it was converted into a mosque after changing hands during wars, and was once destroyed by fire. After being rebuilt in 1930, it suffered again during World War II, making its history quite tumultuous. The palace we see today was restored after the war in 1950.
▲ Fisherman's Bastion is located on Castle Hill on the Buda side, a fortress named in honor of the fishermen who once defended the Danube. Along with the Hungarian Parliament Building and the State Opera House, it is hailed as one of Hungary's three most stunning architectural marvels. It also serves as an excellent vantage point for overlooking the Danube and enjoying panoramic views of the Pest district.
▲ Fisherman's Bastion stands on the banks of the Danube River, adjacent to Matthias Church. Construction began in 1895 and took six years to complete. This two-tiered gray-white structure centers around a neo-Romanesque white spire, with several surrounding round towers representing Hungary's ancestral tribes. The towers are connected by arcades, creating a maze-like appearance. From a distance, it strikingly resembles the castle in the Disney logo.
▲ The Liberty Bridge is a major bridge in Budapest, spanning the Danube River in the southeastern part of the city center, connecting Buda and Pest. Constructed between 1894 and 1896, it features an aesthetically pleasing chain-like design popular at the time. Originally named after Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary, the bridge includes a silver rivet installed by the emperor himself.
▲ The bridge is 333.6 meters long and 20.1 meters wide. The tops of the bridge pillars are adorned with four bronze statues depicting ancient Hungarian mythological birds resembling falcons. Visiting the bridge at night is particularly fascinating—one end leads to Gellért Hill while the other connects to the market hall and pedestrian street. Viewed from a distance, the bridge appears majestic and steeped in history.
