Kossuth Lajos Square

At first glance, this may seem like just another square—but its significance is elevated by the grand buildings and statues that surround it, making it one of Budapest’s most distinguished public spaces. The square is named after Lajos Kossuth, Hungary’s second Prime Minister and a revered national figure. Kossuth is celebrated for his tireless efforts toward Hungary’s independence, particularly in resisting Habsburg and Russian control.

A towering statue of Kossuth stands proudly here, facing the Hungarian Parliament as a symbol of the nation’s enduring fight for sovereignty. Nearby, you’ll also see the impressive building of the Ministry of Agriculture.

The square underwent a major transformation over a two-year period to return it to how it appeared before 1944. Today, visitors will find an underground parking facility and a collection of new sculptures enhancing the space. Kossuth Square is a central gathering spot during national celebrations, military parades, and public events such as flag-raising ceremonies or political demonstrations.

As winter approaches, the square transforms into a festive space with a large ice-skating rink set up just before Christmas. One of the standout features of the square is the equestrian statue of Ferenc Rákóczi II, the leader of the early 18th-century Hungarian independence movement.

The square is a pedestrian-only zone, inviting visitors to explore at their leisure. Opposite the Parliament building is the former Palace of Justice, which now houses the Museum of Ethnography. From the outside, it resembles an elegant palace, topped with a dramatic sculpture of the goddess of Justice riding a chariot. The museum's interior is just as striking as its exterior and well worth a visit.