The Basilica of St. Istvan

The Basilica of St. Istvan is the most imposing church of the Hungarian capital. Along with Hungarian Parliament building, this is the tallest building built in Budapest of its time. The construction of the basilica began in the mid-nineteenth century and ended almost fifty years later. Three chief architects succeeded each other at the head of the project, and each of them brought his touch to the church's style. It was consecrated November 9, 1905, a historic event not only for Budapestians but also for all of Europe. 30 years later, the Pope himself gave the Saint Istvan Church the honorary status of "Basilica Minor." On the sides of the main façade, there are two tall steeples. In the right tower hangs the largest bell in the country, which weighs 9 tons. From the top platform of the church, reached by climbing 364 steps or by taking the elevator, we discover a breathtaking view of the old towns of Pest, Buda and the Danube. The basilica is named in honor of Istvan, the first king of Hungary. Inside the basilica, it is mainly the central altar that stands out through its elaborate decoration.

To the left of the altar, we see a golden urn in which is held a particularly valuable relic of St. Istvan, specifically, his right hand. Tradition dictates that on the day of St. Istvan, the urn be taken outside and put at the head of a procession, walking it around the basilica. Behind the altar, we see a sculpture representing the Holy Saint himself.

The windows are decorated with stained glass windows with representations of prominent saints. Note that the interior of the basilica consists of about 50 different types of marble. You can observe rich mosaic works, crafted by the best artisans in Hungary.