Architecture

NileGuide Expert tip:

All you need to do is keep your eyes open, remember to look up and enjoy the atmosphere created by the grand buildings.

Description:

• Much of Pest was built around the end of the 19th/early 20th century, and much is in the art-nouveau style (called 'secessionist' in Austria and Hungary). Just wander around the 5th, 6th and 7th districts and keep your eyes open, remembering to look up as well. Particularly note the fine buildings on Andrassy ut. and how similar they are to many Parisian buildings. (Budapest shares with Paris the fact that within one building are offices, shops and residences). Look inside the main doorway, as many of the buildings have fine courtyards and elaborate entrance doors and portals. Particularly see Szabadsag ter (Liberty Square - nearest metro Kossuth Lajos ter). The huge building on the west side was originally the Stock Exchange, now the HQ of Hungarian TV. The US embassy is at the NE corner at No.12. The National Bank at No.9 has some excellent relief carvings. (A number of scenes for the movie 'Evita' were filmed in this square.) Just the other side of the squar e to the east is Hold u. Here at No.4 is the outstanding National Savings Bank building, a riot of coloured ceramic Zsolnay tiles. Don't miss it. (The same architect did the Museum of Applied Arts on Ulloi u., which you probably passed on the way in from the airport.)
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