Stunning Interior of Hungarian Parliament House in Budapest

Hungary Parliament house, a stunning blend of Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival styles, stands as an impressive and awe-inspiring architectural gem. I had read up that in recognition of its beauty and significance, the Parliament building has earned accolades from travelers worldwide. The Hungarian Parliament House in Budapest secured a coveted spot among TripAdvisor’s top 15 landmarks, surpassing renowned landmarks such as London’s Big Ben, Athens’ ancient Acropolis, and Paris’ Notre-Dame Cathedral in the 2017 Traveler’s Choice Awards.

Its grandeur and historical importance make Budapest Parliament a must-visit site in Europe. With over a century of history etched into its walls, it serves as a captivating testament to Hungary’s rich heritage. Well, for reasons more than these I was determined to add the Budapest Parliament inside tour during my one day itinerary of Budapest.

Hungarian Parliament Building Facade

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Hungarian Parliament House History

An amazing architectural wonder, the Parliament of Budapest – or the Országház, is the second largest parliament in Europe. Until 1843, the Hungarians did not have a Parliament building of their own. The Parliament was built between 1885 and 1902, at the time the largest parliamentary building in the world. It has symmetric facade and dome.

A competition was held in 1880 to find the best design for the Hungarian House of Parliament. Hungarian architect, Imre Steindl won the competition. His design was inspired by the British Parliament. Located on the banks of Danube River, the grand building has neo-Gothic and Revivalist elements which have added a beautiful charm to the building.

Hungarian Parliament House in Budapest – the equestrian statue of Hungarian leader Francis II Rákóczi

In 1885, when construction of the Budapest Parliament house began, Imre Steindl was a healthy young man of 46 years. Sadly, as the years passed, Steindl’s eyesight deteriorated, he passed away on October 8, 1902, just weeks before the building reached its completion. Although Steindl did not witness the finalization of his masterpiece, an additional two years were dedicated to the meticulous completion of the inner works and decorative elements of the building, meeting the highest standards of excellence envisioned by Steindl during its design phase.

Some statistics on Parliament House Budapest dimensions:
– The building has a length of 268 meters and is 118 meters wide.
– The parliament house contains more than 20 km staircase, and 691 rooms, 28 entrances, 10 courtyards and 29 staircases.
– The elegant dome has a height of 69 meters.

Of the 691+ rooms only three are open to public. Disappointing indeed! The tickets have to done in advance if you are keen to shell out the huge amount to see those three beautiful rooms. You will come out dazed seeing the dazzling opulence of the interiors, that is for sure!

Guided Tour of Budapest Parliament

After an elaborate (understandable) security check we were led inside by a smart English speaking guide. There are Budapest parliament guided tours in several other languages too.

We were soon facing the dramatic, operatic entrance. I was glad they allowed to take Hungarian Parliament Building Photos, though there were restrictions in some of the places inside. I hope you will like these captures of interior of Hungarian Parliament House.

The House of Parliament Budapest

Functioning of Budapest Parliament

During the tour our guide explained to us the functioning of the parliament. The House of Parliament, known as the Országház in Hungarian, serves as a fully functional law making body in Hungary. As the seat of the National Assembly, it hosts regular debates and sessions where important legislative matters are discussed with participation of the Prime Minister and his Cabinet.

Inside the Parliament building, each member of the Parliament has their own designated desk equipped with a voting system. According to the tour guide, the desks are equipped with a chip card that activates the voting system. This system consists of four buttons, enabling members to cast their votes by selecting Yes, No, or Abstain. Additionally, there is a fourth button that allows members to request speaking time during the debates. The voting results are displayed on screens located on both sides of the chamber, providing a transparent view of the outcome.

The Parliament building not only accommodates the 199 members of Parliament but also houses a substantial staff of nearly 600 individuals who provide support and assistance to the lawmakers.

While tours of the Parliament Budapest are generally restricted during regular session days, limited access is granted to visitors during the first plenary session of each week. Visitors can witness the parliamentary proceedings firsthand, usually between the hours of 8 AM and 10 AM. It offers a glimpse into the dynamic environment where crucial decisions are made, laws are enacted, and the democratic process unfolds.

Parlamento Budapest

Interesting Numerical Facts Budapest Parlament

• Imre Steindl, victor of an international competition, planned this majestic Hungarian parliament building.
• Construction started in 1885 and completed in 1904. The parliament building was inaugurated on the 1000th anniversary of the country in 1896. Sadly the architect of the building went blind before its completion.
• Some statistics regarding construction of this parliament: About 100,000 people were involved in construction; 40 million bricks, half a million precious stones and 40 kg of gold were used.
• You may not believe but the inside of this parliament is symmetrical. It has 2 absolutely identical parliament halls of which one is used for politics, the other for guided tours for tourists like us.
• It is one of the two tallest buildings in Budapest, the other being St Stephen’s Basilica.
• Another interesting fact of Budapest parliament is that its height of 96 m. The number 96 refers to the nation’s millennium in 1896 and the conquest of Kingdom of Hungary in 896.
• 365 towers are incorporated throughout the building, one for each day of the year.

Hungarian Parliament Budapest inside – The Grand Staircase

What to see inside Hungarian Parliament House

All pictures were taken during Parliament Budapest inside tour. Note: The must see in Budapest Parliament are:

• Staircase XVII– Within the Grand Stairway there are eight, four-ton granite columns
• Old Upper House Hall – The Hall, a resplendent room, is used for conferences and official meetings at present. It has gold plated decorations, and galleries. Behind the podium, there are paintings of coats of arms of Hungary’s royal families. There is seating for 453 people in this room.
• Upper House Lobby – As we stepped into the Upper House Lobby the hand knotted turquoise floor carpet spread at our feet stunned us. The pillars of this lobby are adorned with statues of old Hungarian national groups and Hungarian crafts and culture. I saw one of the most ornate gold gilded ceilings with paintings here.

Staircase Interior Hungarian Parliament Budapest

• Hungarian Crown – It is a part of Hungarian Coronation Regalia. Other items include the orb, the scepter and a renaissance sword. Scroll down for more info.
• Hungarian Parliament Museum
• Impressive grand staircase covered with rich red velvet. Gave a royal feel as I climbed it! Can you believe the total length of all stairs in this parliament together measures about 20km?!!!
• You are guided through the corridor crossing several grand and glittering halls.

Guards in Hungarian Parliament Building

• We were led through some long corridors, most of the doors were shut. Have you heard of the brass cigar holders? (scroll down for pictures) Those were spotted in the corridors.
• Finally we were shown the conference room through a window. Not just me even other tourists were stunned by the glittering interiors of National Assembly of Hungary.

Stunning Interior of Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest

• Dome Hall with a magnificent ceiling and 16 statues of Hungarian leaders – Finally we were at the Dome Hall which houses the Hungarian crown and royal insignia. Look up to see one of the most stunning ceiling designs. The dome has a rib vaulted ceiling replete with stained glass paintings on the windows. On the base of the rib vaulted pillars, there are statues of Hungarian rulers on gold pedestals.

• Stained glass windows are mind blowing works of Miksa Roth

Holy Crown of Hungary

I saw the Holy Crown of Hungary, also known as the Crown of St. Stephen, displayed in the central Dome Hall. A famous symbol of Hungarian heritage it has been there since 2000. This priceless work of art dating back to 12^th century has witnessed the coronation of more than 50 Hungarian kings, each receiving the crown’s regal touch.

The protection and reverence bestowed upon the Holy Crown are evident in the presence of two rotating guards who stand watch over it at all times. If you time yourself well, which many tour guides do, you can witness the change of guards. These dedicated guards change their positions hourly, ensuring the utmost security and care for this precious artifact. Carrying a sword, although not sharp, they are joined by a third soldier equipped with a gun, maintaining a steadfast presence in safeguarding the crown’s integrity.

Crafted in the year 1000, the Holy Crown of Hungary is a breathtaking piece molded from pure gold. Adorned with 19 enamel “pantokrator” pictures, pearls, semi-precious stones, and almandine, its intricate design showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of the time. Notably, it remains one of only two surviving Byzantine crowns in existence. The other, known as the Monomachus Crown, is also housed in Budapest at the Hungarian National Museum, further adding to the city’s wealth of historical treasures.

Coronation Regalia Crown of St Stephen in Hungarian Parliament Budapest

Brass Cigar Holders in Budapest Parlament

Can you guess what that curved structure is? The picture was taken in the corridors of Parliament Budapest. Here is one more close-up. The curves are all numbered. Before scrolling down further give it a thought what could it be?

Brass Cigar Holders in Parliament Budapest

So? Could you guess? These are brass cigar holders. Smoking was once permitted in the corridors of Hungarian Parliament, but not inside the voting and discussion chamber. The politicians left their cigars on these grooved racks before they went in to cast their vote. The numbers on the rack helped them remember which cigar was whose. After returning from the debates and voting sessions they could pick up their own cigar without confusion.

Interesting! I thought.

Numbering of Cigar holders in Parliament Budapest

Gilded Opulence: The Extravagant Display of Gold in Hungary’s Parliament Building

Can you believe Hungary’s Parliament building stands adorned with over 40 kilograms of meticulously crafted 22 to 23 carat gold, including rare gold leaves. As an Indian, my ears perked up hearing the amount of GOLD!

These dazzling gold accents are prominently featured throughout the architectural masterpiece, accentuating the splendor of the staircases and intricately designed ceilings. Each individual gold accent holds minimal weight on its own. This delicate balance of luxury and practicality allows for the stunning visual impact without compromising the structural integrity of the building.

Ceiling of Budapest Parlament

Engineering Marvel: The Innovative Ventilation System of Hungary’s Parliament Building

During the construction of the Parliament building Imre Steindl designed a sophisticated boiler located in a nearby building that generates steam, which is then circulated through pipes into the Parliament building. He wanted to avoid the presence of visible chimneys on the building’s rooftop.

To combat the sweltering summers, a conventional air conditioning system has been implemented in recent years. In the past, from the 1930s until 1994, a different method was employed. Large blocks of ice were strategically placed in underground mines, effectively utilizing natural cooling properties to regulate the temperature inside the building.

Hunter’s Hall Budapest Parliament

Iconic Riverside Location of Budapest Parliament Building

Situated along the banks of the Danube River, the Parliament building boasts a breathtaking location that adds to its fame. Its stunning position on the Pest side of Budapest provides panoramic views of the city and serves as an emblematic symbol of the Hungarian capital.
Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary
Google Coordinates: 47.50765729844253, 19.04592649205622

Change of Guards

The famous changing of the guard inside Hungarian Parliament House takes place at 12:30 p.m. each day in Kossuth Lajos Square, without any obstruction to tourists. Just take care to not get into their way.

Budapest Parliament Tickets and Timings

Summer timings 1^st Apr – 31^st Oct: Mon – Sun: 8.00 – 18.00, Winter timings 1^st Nov – 31^st Mar: Mon – Sun: 8.00 – 16.00. The parliament is closed to tourists on National Holidays and there are several of them throughout the year. Please check before you fix the itinerary.

Budapest Parliament Tickets for EU citizens, full price: 2 400 HUF, non-EU citizens, full price: 6 000 HUF. Students have different rates.

Tip: Buy tickets online to avoid standing in queue which can be considerably long during peak seasons.

FAQ questions and answers for tour of Interior of Hungarian Parliament House in Budapest

What is the Hungarian Parliament House?

The Hungarian Parliament House, also known as the Parliament of Budapest, is the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary. It’s an iconic landmark situated on the bank of the Danube River.

Is it worth visiting Hungarian Parliament House?

The Parliament House is not only a stunning architectural masterpiece but also holds significant historical and political importance. Its intricate design, rich history, and breathtaking interiors make it a must-visit attraction in Budapest.

How can I book a tour of the Hungarian Parliament House?

To book a tour of the Hungarian Parliament House, you can visit the official website of the Hungarian Parliament or purchase tickets on-site at the Visitor Center located near the building.

What languages are the tours available in?

Tours of the Hungarian Parliament House are conducted in multiple languages, including English, Hungarian, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and others. Audio guides are also available in various languages to enhance your experience.

What are the tour timings?

Tours of the Hungarian Parliament House typically run throughout the day, with varying timings depending on the season. It’s advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and availability.

How long does the tour of the Hungarian Parliament House last?

The standard guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament House usually lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, allowing visitors to explore the most significant chambers and halls while learning about its history and significance.

Are there any restrictions for visitors during the tour?

Yes, visitors are required to adhere to certain guidelines during the tour, including restrictions on photography in certain areas, as well as respecting the historical significance of the building by refraining from touching artifacts and exhibits.

Is the Hungarian Parliament House accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the Hungarian Parliament House is equipped with facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair access is available, and special arrangements can be made upon request for those needing additional assistance during the tour.

Can I visit the Hungarian Parliament House without taking a guided tour?

Unfortunately, access to the interior of the Hungarian Parliament House is only permitted through guided tours. However, you can still admire the exterior of the building and take stunning photos from the surrounding areas.

Is the Hungarian Parliament House illuminated at night?

Yes, the Hungarian Parliament House is beautifully illuminated after dusk, offering a mesmerizing sight that’s worth experiencing. Many visitors enjoy taking evening strolls along the Danube River to capture the breathtaking views of the illuminated Parliament House.

Parting thoughts from Hungarian Parliament House

The inside tour of the Budapest Parliament left me in awe of the grandeur and historical significance that emanates from every corner of this magnificent building. From the intricate gold accents that adorn the staircases and ceilings to the resplendent Holy Crown of Hungary on display, the Parliament stands as a testament to the nation’s rich heritage and enduring democratic spirit.

Walking through its halls, I couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the countless hours of labor that went into creating this architectural masterpiece. It is a place where the past and present converge, where laws are debated and decisions that shape the future are made. The Budapest Parliament is truly a symbol of Hungary’s rich cultural legacy, and I feel fortunate to have experienced its grandeur first hand.

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