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An evening in Budapest:
Ah, Budapest! The city where history mingles with breathtaking beauty at every corner, and we found ourselves completely smitten. Just as we wrapped up our visit to the stunning Budapest Opera House and the majestic Saint Stephen’s Basilica, we realized the sun was starting to set. Worried it might get dark before reaching the Chain Bridge – though it was only a brisk 15-minute walk away – we picked up the pace, weaving through the bustling restaurant hub. but now before clicking few pictures with the iconic pot bellied Policeman statue along the way ! 😜
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Before we knew it, we were at the entrance of the Chain Bridge, and wow, the view was mesmerizing! The Danube River flowed gracefully beneath the bridge, while the majestic structure stood tall and proud, with those iconic lion statues adding to its charm.
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After a quick photo session, we wandered down to the riverbank. ( boss don’t worry I am not yet done , I promise to give you a history lesson on it 😜)
So, grab a cup of coffee, kick back, and join us as we relive the magic!
The Majestic Chain Bridge:
This grand old dame, built in 1849, was the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest, forever uniting the two halves of the city. It was designed by the English engineer William Tierney Clark and constructed under the supervision of Scotsman Adam Clark. No relation between the two Clarks, but certainly a fun coincidence! Walking across this beauty feels like stepping back in time, with lion statues guarding the entrances as if saying, “Welcome to the heart of Budapest!”
The bridge has seen it all – from glorious parades to turbulent wars. It was blown up during World War II but, much like the resilient spirit of Hungary, it was rebuilt and stands proud today, offering stunning views of the Danube River.
FunFact: The lion statues on either end of the bridge are famous for a quirky legend. It’s said that the sculptor, upon realizing he forgot to carve tongues for the lions, threw himself into the Danube out of sheer embarrassment. Thankfully, this is just a myth – both the sculptor and the lions lived on tongue-intact!
We soon started to walk along the Danube river and suddenly came across scattered shoes, do you know what these shoes are , well here I go again 😃
The Shoes on the Danube Bank :
Imagine walking along the serene Danube River, with the beautiful skyline of Budapest in the background. As you stroll, you suddenly encounter these iron shoes scattered along the embankment. They seem almost out of place, a chilling juxtaposition against the vibrant city life. Each shoe tells a story of an individual who was forced to step out of their shoes before being shot into the river by the Arrow Cross militia.
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A deeply poignant and humbling sight that stands as a stark reminder of one of history’s darkest chapters. Created by Hungarian sculptors Gyula Pauer and Can Togay in 2005, this moving memorial consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes lined up along the riverbank, each pair uniquely crafted to resemble the shoes worn by Jewish men, women, and children during World War II.
This memorial invites reflection and contemplation. As you stand there, you can’t help but feel a deep connection to the past and a sense of sorrow for the lives lost. The shoes are not just a symbol of the victims’ final moments but also a call to remember and never forget the atrocities that occurred. It’s a powerful tribute to resilience, a silent yet eloquent message to the world about the importance of tolerance, empathy, and the enduring human spirit.
We paid our homage and moved on to our next destination for the day the Hungarian Parliament
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Hungarian Parliament:
Next up, the grandiose Hungarian Parliament, a true architectural masterpiece. Constructed between 1885 and 1904, it’s one of Europe’s oldest legislative buildings, and certainly one of the most beautiful. The design, inspired by the British House of Parliament, is neo-Gothic in style but also boasts a majestic dome.
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As we marveled at the intricate details of the façade, we were awestruck by the 691 rooms (yes, you read that right!), 10 courtyards, and about 13 kilometers of stairs. The interior is just as impressive, with lavish decorations, gold leaf adornments, and stunning frescoes. The Parliament is home to the Holy Crown of Hungary, an exquisite relic dating back to the 12th century and used in the coronations of Hungarian kings.
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Fun Fact: The Hungarian Parliament Building is not only a political hub but also a haven for some of the city’s best-kept secrets. During World War II, it housed a hidden hospital in the basement, providing sanctuary and medical care to many.
Stories to Remember (I absolutely relish hearing them! I can’t express enough how much these tales mean to me. They add such richness and depth to every experience we share, making each moment truly unforgettable! 🌟)
Amidst our exploration, we stumbled upon a friendly local who shared a charming story about the Chain Bridge. During the 1980s, when communism was taking its last breaths, the bridge became a symbol of hope and freedom. Peaceful protests and gatherings often took place on the bridge, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Hungarian people.
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At the Hungarian Parliament, a guide regaled us with tales of the vigilant guards who protect the Holy Crown. Apparently, these guards undergo rigorous training, mastering everything from sword-fighting to complex ceremonies. It’s like something straight out of a medieval epic!
And there you have it – our delightful, fact-filled romp through the Chain Bridge and Hungarian Parliament. Budapest, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming people, left an indelible mark on our hearts. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone looking for a bit of adventure, these landmarks are sure to enchant and inspire.
We had finally wrapped up our first exhilarating day in Budapest, and it was time to kick back and relax on the banks of the Danube River. What a day! The river, with its calm flow and the city lights reflecting off its surface, was the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the magic of Budapest. 🎉✨
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Just picture this: the Danube River, the lifeline of Budapest, flowing gracefully under the golden hues of the setting sun. As the sky melts into shades of orange, pink, and purple, the Fisherman’s Bastion stands majestically on the Buda side, its fairy-tale towers glowing softly in the twilight.
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Along the river, floating boat restaurants begin to light up, casting warm reflections on the water. The ambiance is vibrant yet serene, with laughter and clinking glasses echoing from the decks. Twinkling lights strung across the boats add a touch of magic, creating a scene straight out of a romantic movie.
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Along the river, the Parliament building is illuminated, its grand silhouette mirrored on the Danube’s surface. Bridges connecting Buda and Pest sparkle with light, like strings of pearls adorning the city. The whole panorama exudes an irresistible charm, making every moment feel timeless and enchanting.
Until our next adventure, keep exploring and discovering the world’s hidden gems!
Happy travels!
To read the next part click here: Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest
Special Thanks to my dear friend Barbi Ivánka-Tóth from Budapest who was gracious enough to allow me to use some of the pictures which she had clicked, God bless you !
