We were still in a daze  after visiting the Hungarian State Opera House, enamored by the dazzling beauty of the interiors , but as I always say that a traveler cannot fall in love with one place , he /she has to move on because newer destinations will keep beckoning him/her. For our next destination which was attracting us, to have a peep, was St. Stephen’s Basilica. Luckily for us that this place is at a short walkable distance from the Opera house. We started to walk to our next destination simultaneously enjoying the window shopping enroute , all top brand shops are on the road outside the Opera House ( good place to do shopping if you are loaded with dough) , Following the google map we reached the entrance of the lane which was flanked with shops and cafes and at the end of the lane we could see the towering dome of the St. Stephen’s Basilica. One look and I simply could utter WOW ! , next I gestured to my daughter and wife FOLLOW ME and  like the Captain of a ship I exclaimed, Ahoy, My fellow wanderers!  ( If you know me, you will understand that I am never short of been dramatic). “Come and have a look at St. Stephen’s Basilica—an architectural marvel that’s as rich in history as your grandma’s secret cookie recipe. Let’s dive into what makes this basilica so special, and while we’re at it, I’ll share some café recommendations and activities that’ll make your visit downright delightful! “

A Quick Dive into History

First things first: St. Stephen’s Basilica is not just a pretty face. Built in the 19th century, it’s dedicated to Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen (surprise!). This grand structure took nearly 50 years to complete, and it’s the tallest building in Budapest, standing proud at 96 meters. Fun fact: that height was a deliberate nod to the height of the Parliament building. Apparently, there’s a friendly architectural rivalry happening in this city!

The interior? Oh boy, it’s like stepping into a baroque dream. With its stunning frescoes, intricate mosaics, and the jaw-dropping golden dome, it’s a feast for the eyes. And yes, you can climb up to the dome for a panoramic view of the city that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.

 A Cinematic Backdrop

St. Stephen’s Basilica isn’t just a favorite among tourists; it’s also made a splash in the film world! Several movies have used this stunning location to capture its awe-inspiring beauty. Here are a few notable mentions:

1. The Spy Who Came in from the Cold (1965): This classic Cold War spy thriller, based on John le Carré’s novel, features some scenes shot around Budapest, including the iconic basilica. Talk about adding a little espionage flair to your sightseeing!

2. The Martian (2015): You might be wondering what a massive basilica has to do with space travel. Well, in this sci-fi hit, Budapest stood in for various global locations, and St. Stephen’s was part of the backdrop. So, while Matt Damon was busy planting potatoes on Mars, this beauty was serving as the lovely setting for Earthly adventures.

3. Die Hard 5 (A Good Day to Die Hard, 2013): Our favorite action hero, John McClane, finds himself in Budapest, with St. Stephen’s Basilica making a cameo. If you ever wanted to see a basilica in the midst of high-stakes action, this is your chance!

4. The Great Spy Chase (2014): This Hungarian film utilized the stunning architecture of the basilica for its thrilling scenes. It’s always fun to see local landmarks get their moment in the cinematic spotlight!

Activities You Can’t Miss

1. Climb the Dome: Feeling fit? Tackle the 364 steps to the top for views that’ll leave you breathless (in a good way). Bring your camera—this is an Instagram moment waiting to happen!

2. Attend a Concert: Yes, you read that right! St. Stephen’s isn’t just for tourists snapping selfies. It’s a concert venue, too. Check the schedule for classical music performances that will make your soul swoon. Nothing like a little Mozart in a basilica to elevate your day!

3. Visit the Holy Right Hand: No, that’s not a horror movie. It’s the mummified right hand of St. Stephen, displayed in a glass case. This artifact is a serious big deal in Hungary, so it’s worth a peek if you’re into relics.

Café Culture: Fuel Up!

After all that exploring, you’ll need a caffeine fix. Lucky for you, the area around St. Stephen’s Basilica is brimming with delightful cafés:

– Café Kor: Just a short stroll away, this spot serves up delicious Hungarian pastries and hearty meals. The goulash is a must-try, and the coffee? Let’s just say you’ll be dreaming of it long after you’ve left.

– Gelarto Rosa: Want to treat yourself? This ice cream shop is famous for its rose-shaped cones, made with artisanal flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing. Chocolate lavender, anyone? It’s a hit!

 Dunacorso Restaurant : Just a stone’s throw away, this restaurant and café boasts lovely views of the Danube River. It’s perfect for a coffee or a meal while enjoying the scenic surroundings. The outdoor seating is particularly delightful

Mokka Cafe :Located close to the cathedral, Mokka Café is known for its cozy vibe and great coffee. It’s an ideal spot to relax with a warm drink and a pastry after your visit to the basilica.

– Café Central: Step into this historic café, where the ambiance is as rich as the coffee. Perfect for people-watching or indulging in a slice of cake that should probably be classified as art.

 Enjoying the Surroundings

Once you’re done basking in the basilica’s glory, why not take a leisurely stroll around the nearby Liberty Square? Grab a book, plop down on a bench, and soak up the local vibe. You might just catch a street performer showing off their skills, or maybe someone playing a spirited game of chess.

Conclusion

St. Stephen’s Basilica is more than just a stop on your Budapest itinerary; it’s an experience. From its stunning architecture and rich history to the delightful cafés nearby and its star-studded cinematic moments, you’ll leave with your heart (and stomach) full. So, lace up those walking shoes, grab your camera, and prepare for a day of exploration, culture, and maybe a little indulgence. Happy travels, my friends!

For us the journey for the day was not over, As they say yeh Dil mange more ( the heart desires for more) so we left the St. Stephen’s Basilica and started to move toward Danube river to catch a glimpse of Chain bridge, Stay tuned for the next part and be my fellow traveler. Stay tuned for next blog