Buda Castle

Welcome to one of the most iconic and historically rich locations in Budapest—Buda Castle. This majestic site has stood through centuries of conflict, conquest, and change. Its golden era was during the reign of King Matthias Corvinus in the late 15th century, when the royal palace of Hungary and Croatia was considered one of Europe’s most magnificent.

Since that time, the castle has faced destruction and reconstruction not once, but three times. The most severe damage came during World War II, when much of the palace, like many other landmarks in Budapest, was left in ruins. Post-war rebuilding was slow under the communist regime, and when reconstruction finally began, it didn’t restore the original architecture. Instead, the new design reflected a more simplified, Stalinist interpretation of Baroque style.

Despite the loss of its original grandeur, Buda Castle remains an essential place to visit. Between 1958 and 1962, archaeologists uncovered a number of medieval rooms during restoration efforts. These spaces were rebuilt and are now part of the Budapest History Museum’s permanent exhibit in Building E. The museum traces the city’s evolution from its earliest days to modern times. Notable highlights include the reconstructed Royal Chapel and the Gothic Hall, with its dramatic rib-vaulted ceiling. The museum itself spans four floors and offers a deep dive into the city's layered past.

Today, the castle is a thriving cultural hub. It houses not only the history museum, but also the Hungarian National Gallery and the National Széchényi Library. As you explore the grounds, be sure to check out the Matthias Fountain on the far side of the palace. This impressive sculpture portrays King Matthias leading a hunting party with hounds, a fallen deer, and his companions. Though damaged during WWII, the fountain has been carefully restored and is now one of the castle’s most photographed features.

For over 35 years, Buda Castle has proudly held a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Beneath the Castle District lies a vast network of tunnels and caves, originally used for defense and shelter. These natural formations once protected early settlers from threats long before the arrival of the Hungarian tribes.

If you're looking for something truly different in Budapest, don’t miss the Labyrinth of Buda Castle. Set in the natural caves under Castle Hill, it offers an eerie and atmospheric journey through dim chambers—including the one where Vlad the Impaler, the figure who inspired Dracula, was reportedly imprisoned in the 15th century. Along the way, you'll encounter statues of historic Hungarian figures and have the chance to test your nerve in the Maze of Darkness. Just remember: the only way to find your way is by following the garden hose running along the wall. Let go, and you might just get lost in the shadows!