Happy Thursday dear friends. We have enjoyed several days of sunny skies and temperatures in the 60’s. Spring surely can’t be too far away, but who knows?!
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.”
Hebrews 10:23 (ESV)
Today is the last installment of our Viking Danube River cruise that we took last September. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and join us for my favorite destination of the trip…Budapest! It is often called the ‘Pearl of the Danube’ or ‘Little Paris’.
This iconic building is amazing during the daytime, but is magnificent at night! The Hungarian Parliament Building is a notable landmark of Hungary and a popular tourist destination in Budapest! What appear as stars overhead are actually birds flying.
The Parliament building sits on the banks of the Danube River and is located in the Pest side of the city. This photo was taken from a Buda hilltop across the river. It is the largest building in Hungary and was designed by a Hungarian architect in a neo-Gothic style. It opened in 1902. Hot air balloons were seen at times, pretty, but not our choice of transportation!
Fisherman’s Bastion lookout towers offer gorgeous views of the Danube and the Pest side of the city as seen in the previous photo.
The Bastion, near Buda Castle, attracts many visitors and is one of the areas top attractions and considered a “must see”. The mock bastion was built during the 1800’s, and the design is reminiscent of a fairytale castle. As mentioned above, the panoramic view from here is amazing!
Matthias Church is located in front of Fisherman’s Bastion in the heart of the Buda Castle hill district. The church was constructed in the second half of the 14th century in the Gothic style. Matthias Church underwent a major reconstruction in the 19th century that restored it to its original image.
Can you imagine the skill needed to lay the stunning diamond pattern roof tiles?! We found the design and colors breathtaking!
The church has a long and important history. The church was severely damaged during the 1944-45 siege of Budapest by the Allies. The Germans used the crypt as a camp kitchen and after the fall of the city, the Soviets used the sanctuary as a stable for their horses.
Beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows adorn the interior! With excellent acoustics, organ and classical concerts are given regularly. Can you imagine housing horses here?
The bronze Matthias Fountain, located in the Buda Castle courtyard, was designed in 1904 and features King Matthias as the top figure in a royal hunting scene. The ornate and beautiful sculpture has the legend of a sad love story that reminds me of Cinderella. The Fountain survived the destruction of World War II with minor damage. It was recently restored in 2010. The arrangement of the figures resembles the much larger Trevi Fountain in Rome.
With the River Danube dividing the city of Budapest into Buda and Pest, its eight bridges are most important! The easily recognized green bridge is called Liberty Bridge and is the shortest of the bridges. It was originally called the Franz Joseph Bridge for the Emperor who opened it in 1896. On the top of each pillar is a Tural, the mythical Hungarian bird standing on a golden ball.
The bridge was built in an Art Nouveau style. Retreating German troops during World War II blew up this bridge on January 16, 1945, along with every other bridge. It was the first bridge after the war to be reconstructed. Only its central parts had to be rebuilt. It was reopened on August 20, 1946 and renamed the Liberty Bridge.
Walking around the city, we happened upon two beautiful and elaborate fountains that certainly got my attention. The one pictured above is by the renowned porcelain manufacturer Zsolnay and is about thirteen feet in height. It is designed in the same way as the company’s distinct Hercules Fountains that are found elsewhere in the region.
The “Tree of Life” by the famous porcelain company of Herend is a curved plant-like formations mounted on the end of the tree branches. It was disappointing that neither fountain was running. Both Herend and Zsolnay are Hungarian porcelain companies that are known world-wide!
Only a few steps from our hotel entrance was this very popular pedestrian street filled with restaurants and shops. It was always busy and we joined the crowd several times. This was our preferred route, providing easy walking and access to many wonderful sights in the city. This was the perfect time of day to get a photo and to take in the captivating St. Stephen’s Basilica at the end of the way. The Basilica is a major tourist attraction!
St. Stephen’s Basilica is named in honor of Stephen, the first King of Hungary! It is the largest church in Budapest and is a World Heritage site. The facade is anchored by two large bell towers. The church is one of the two tallest buildings in Budapest, equal with the Parliament Building at 315 feet. Crews were setting up for a special outdoor event on this day, along with many visitors lining up to tour the Basilica. Busy place!
The Chain Bridge was the first permanent stone bridge connecting Pest and Buda and is the most famous of the Budapest Bridges!
Chain Bridge was opened in 1849 and its cast iron structure was updated and strengthened in 1914. As the Germans were retreating during the Siege of Budapest on January 18, 1945, they blew up the bridge with only the towers remaining intact. It was rebuilt and reopened in 1949.
A beautiful September day and a stroll across the Chain Bridge provided the perfect opportunity to frame Parliament and the Danube within parts of the bridges unique structural and ornate design features.
While it was a fairly long walk around the Parliament Building, the various views of the intricate and detailed architecture made the hike well worth the effort!
This is a fitting scene as we complete or time in Budapest…The Chain Bridge crossing the Danube, the Four Seasons Gresham Palace Hotel (our home away from home), just at the end of the bridge, and standing tall in the background is St. Stephen’s Basilica!
In case you missed our other Danube posts: Danube Delights – Salzburg – Wachau Valley – Vienna – A Budapest Experience
Thank you for joining our travels. We wish you a pleasant Thursday!
Linking with:
Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
Life and Linda
Pam, You are the ultimate travel guide. Your history is capitvating. I’ve been there and I don’t remember hearing that the bridges were blown up by the Germans as they retreated.
I also love how you captured the essence of the cities in your photos. I enjoyed viewing very much. Bonnie
Thank you, Bonnie. It is hard to decide what is info that readers will enjoy but not give more info than they would care about!
Where do I start? Having never been to Budapest I only know of what I’ve read. The Germans were very cruel. Their cruelty, is well documented. . I’ve read about the bridges being destroyed and rebuilt. It’s is the most beautiful city and I would love to go.,would like to know the story behind your comment of the fountain. The Four Seasons hotel was the ideal place, right in the middle of everything, an horses in the cathedral. They probably did that to show their disgust of the church. War is a terrible thing!
Thank you, Alice. I can see you love history. It is truly a gorgeous city and the people are most appreciative of their freedom!
My husband and I took the Viking Danube in early October. The boat was not able to sail into Budapest due to the low water. We had to be bussed into Budapest and it was 1 1/2 hour trip. We were very disappointed with Viking. We didn’t see half of what you saw. Unfortunately my husband became ill on the last day of the trip and although we stayed an extra day at the Kapinski hotel I was not able to see much of what you saw. I did go to Herend store but did not see the fountains nor were we shown these fountains. I am happy to read your post to learn more about Budapest.
Maureen, I am so sorry. That is so terribly disappointing and the trip is quite expensive. I had read that the river levels greatly impacted the boat cruises and I kept checking on it before we left. It does look like Viking could compensate their travelers in some way. I am also so sorry that your husband came down sick. I hope it wasn’t a serious illness.
Blessings, Pam
Good Morning Pam. I have enjoyed your incredible posts of your river cruise. I have to say this last post was my favorite. We want to go to Budapest, and now you sold me on the idea! The stunning architecture, along with the history, is like no other—such an enchanting city.
Thank you for all the valuable information you shared about Viking and this cruise. Enjoy your weekend dear friend.
Thank you, Nancy. We needed more time in Budapest, the extra two days were not enough. It is an enchanting city! Happy weekend, dear friend!
It looks as though your timing was perfect for this trip, Pam. gorgeous architecture. I love that Herend fountain.
The Herend was amazing. Budapest ranks high on my list of favorite European cities! Thank you for coming along, Rita!
What a wonderful trip! I love the fountains and beautiful architecture. I can’t imagine horses in that beautiful church but there was utter destruction during the war, so shelter was taken where it could be found. I’m so glad everything could be restored. We’re so glad you got to have a fabulous trip to celebrate your 50th anniversary and special new decade birthday. Those fountains are gorgeous! Thanks for sharing your pictures. I have enjoyed each post! Have a wonderful day! Clara❤️
Thank you, Clara. It was truly a wonderful trip to celebrate our 50th! The people are friendly and so appreciative of their freedom. Americans could learn from them!
Butch and Pam, thank you for taking us along with you. It’s hard to describe in words how I feel about the history, sites, and views you experienced. I’m awe-struck. I’m a traveler in my heart. I never knew about all the bridges and am so thankful for the rebuilds of the ones that were destroyed in WWII (or partially or mostly). The churches made my jaw drop. Going overseas to see such historic architecture is a blessing. I’m blown away by how they could build such amazing structures for their time. Here, we are enthralled by century-old homes! Yet, in places in the world structures are many centuries old. I love the World we have and appreciate you taking us along with you on the Danube and around your “home away from home”. I always appreciate how you share the beauty in our world and God’s words in tandem! I love you and pray each day for you both! You’re such blessings! 💛🙏💕 I’m taking care of some responsibilities in which I’m behind in due to some rough nights–and I’m so grateful and thankful to be here and to “see” you! Praise God!
I am happy that you are here, sweet friend. Travel is an education just as reading is to me. The city is breathtaking and the people are friendly and very thankful for their freedom. We could learn some valuable lessons from them. I am so sorry about your rough nights. Butch and I continue our daily prayers for you our friend. Sending our love ❤️🙏🏻🤗❤️🙏🏻
Oh, Pam, I couldn’t go on with my day until visiting you. This week has been filled with many things and seeing you and talking with you is what gives me joy to continue on! I had TWO wonderful nights of rest so I DO count all the blessings I receive and every hour I’m here–it’s a win! I’m utterly dependent on Christ! I’m not letting go ever! I’m sending love, prayers, and hugs always! One day I’m going to surprise you with a call….just wait! 🙂 ❤️🙏💕 I dream of traveling again and I STILL look at RV’s for sale! 🙂
Oh please surprise me, I will be excited! Our son and his family love their RV and they use it for all of their trips. We never owned a camper, but as young marrieds we tent camped during the summers. It was fun back then, but an RV sounds better at our age now! Love you ❤️
I sure will, sweet Pam! I’m so happy your son and family love their RV and use it for their trips. How fun! My son and his family love theirs and they met me in Texas when my canyon crew took me to the Grand Canyon before my surgery! Oh, my heart! When the boys were little we camped all the time! I lived in mine for 4 years and miss my “tiny” life–but I know God had a plan for me! Yes, now is the time for you to have an RV. Oh, I miss that life! But I’m thankful for a roof over my head. Truly. Especially now, with this journey. God has given me strength that I’m going to go to the store and pick up some needed items while the sun is shining. I know I will tire later–but I’m filled with gratitude! I’m so excited I was able to chat with you today. It fills my heart! Much love again!! ❤️💕🙏
Enjoy your outing this afternoon. My girls and I are having a Valentine’s tea party this afternoon. I will go down and pick them up on the golf cart. Butch and WL will have playtime with trucks and tractors in the house while we are in the Sunshine Cottage ❤️
Pam, I loved your post! We somehow missed the Herend fountain, so I guess I need to go back! Our Tuk Tuk driver told us “unlike the Americans who tear down their unpleasant past to forget about it, we believe in leaving things as a constant reminder.” We were looking at the Liberty statue erected by the Russians when they “liberated” Hungary from the Nazis.
I read Maureen’s comment above and was so disappointed for her. We also constantly watched the river levels. For anyone contemplating a Danube or Rhine trip, spring and fall are the best times…the rivers are usually full and it is also not so crowded.
Roxanne, you had prepared me well to love Budapest. There is so much to see and take in that it would require much more time than we had. We could learn from these lovely people that cherish their freedom.
I am so sorry for Maureen’s disappointment.
Pam, thank you so much for sharing your trip with us. I have enjoyed my virtual trip so much! Budapest looks like such a beautiful and enchanting place to visit. Your photographs are gorgeous, and the architecture and history is amazing. Happy Thursday my friend!
Thank you, Shannon. I am so glad you enjoyed! We loved the trip!!
Thank you for my armchair travels this morning Pam. What beautiful architecture and history. I’m always amazed at the artistry and skill of the masons that build those cathedrals. You’d have to be a mathematician too. 😊 I can’t image that sanctuary used to stable horses….sacrilege! Wishing you a happy weekend. ♥
Thanks so much, Mary. It is truly amazing the artistry and skill in building cathedrals. Happy Weekend ❤️
Each photo is more breathtaking than the last! What an incredible and gorgeous city! I love virtually traveling with you Pam, you have been to so many amazing countries. Your river cruise was a dream indeed, thank you for sharing!
Thank you, Jenna. Budapest is a wonderful city and we thoroughly enjoyed!
I just marvel at the beauty and history of this gorgeous city. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you, Kris. Wishing you a great weekend!
One of the most beautiful cities in our world and just look how they immediately restored it to perfection after the WWII devastation. Viking is offering that cruise at some fair prices just now.
I would love to take it, stop off in Budapest for a month or so and then continue on home.
Ample time, possibly, to take much of it in….Victor keeps it safe, pristine and untouched…Bravo to him. Thank you for the marvelous, most comprehensive visit to this glorious haven, dear Pam
and Butch.
Mary, you would need a month to take it all in. The people appreciate their freedom! They were resilient in restoration for what the Nazis and Soviets did to their country.
Your photos are terrific, Pam. This is a spot I’ve never been (and never thought about that much). I think you’ve changed that for me. It looks like a wonderful place and destination on your trip of a lifetime!
Thank you, Jeanie. We really enjoyed all of the cities we visited, Budapest was the most magnificent!
Oh, my goodness. What a stunning place–I love your beautiful photos. I’d love to visit some day! The fountains are amazing. Visiting from Love Your Creativity link party.
Great photos! I would love to visit Budapest some year…
It is a lovely city, Jeanie!
Oh my! Your photos are beautiful and I love your commentary. It looks like a gorgeous city with so many beautiful attractions and mind-boggling architecture. What a fabulous way to celebrate your 50th! Just wow. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful trip with us!
Thank you, Kim. So happy that you enjoyed. Happy week to you!
I loved all your fabulous photos of Budapest!. We’ve been as far a Vienna along the Danube but have not gotten to this wonderful city. It was truly a delightful way to celebrate your 50th anniversary by taking your cruise.
Budapest is delightful in every way. The people are friendly and the city is safe and clean. The food is fabulous, as well. Thank you, Karen!
Pam, such a fabulous trip full of great architecture and history. Those buildings are amazing. A trip my mom always wanted to take. Unfortaunately she has passed. I am happy to feature your Danube Finale- Budapest at Love Your Creativity. Happy Sunday.
Thank you, Linda. I appreciate your party every week!
What a beautiful city! I am definitely heading back over your other posts to read ALL about your trip.
I have so enjoyed seeing all about your trip to Budapest! Thank you for taking us along on your grand adventures. God bless you and your family always!
Cheryl, we are thrilled that you traveled with us down the Danube in the comfort of home! Blessings always!