Heroes Squere

Welcome to a place that holds deep national significance for Hungarians—a site where the country’s rich history is brought together in one grand location. At the heart of this impressive square stands a monumental tribute marking the arrival of the Magyar tribes. Built to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian state, the structure even earned top honors at the World Expo in Paris.

Completed in 1900, the monument celebrates a millennium since the Magyars settled in the Carpathian Basin. Its focal point is a tall column crowned with a statue of the Archangel Gabriel, who stands on a globe. Gabriel is depicted wearing the Holy Crown of King István and holding the apostolic cross. Legend has it that the angel appeared to King István in a dream, encouraging him to Christianize Hungary.

At the base of the column, you’ll find powerful equestrian statues of seven tribal leaders, led by Grand Prince Árpád. These were the founding chieftains of the Magyar tribes who entered Transylvania in 896 and soon expanded into Pannonia—an area that includes parts of today’s eastern Austria and southern Slovakia.

Encircling the monument are two sweeping colonnades. These house statues of significant figures from Hungarian history—mainly kings and statesmen—offering a visual timeline of the country’s leadership. Above them, a second row of statues represents symbolic virtues such as War, Peace, Labor, Wealth, Knowledge, and Glory.

Originally, the monument showcased 14 statues representing Hungarian monarchs. Close to the central column, a solemn stone memorial honors Hungarian soldiers who died in the World Wars. The inscription reads: "In memory of the heroes who died for the freedom and national independence of our people."