Heroes Square (Hősök tere) and the City Park (Városliget) were the last places I visited before my sleeper train to Belgrade. Therefore, I am glad I did not skip these else I would have missed out such an impressive square. The Corinthian column is also known as Millennium Monument to mark the thousandth anniversary of Hungary. In comparison to Singapore’s SG50 celebration… Man, hope there will be SG1000 for us too.
Standing atop of the imposing Corinthian column is a statue of Archangel Gabriel holding St. Stephen’s Crown and a two-barred apostolic cross. In additional, encircling below are the statues of seven Magyar tribes’ leaders. And flanking both sides of the column are colonnades with statues of notable people in Hungarian history.
Yet what attracted me the most is the brilliantly designed geometric patterns on the ground. That’s because the patterns give a different perspective depending on how you frame the shot.
Also, the other two main sites of the square include the Hall of Art and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Beautiful sunset at Heroes Square
Maybe as a reward due to my insistence to come here. I witnessed the most beautiful sunset during my time in Budapest at Heroes Square. It’s so gorgeous and the most noteworthy moment!! I probably would have stayed on if not for wanting to visit Vajdahunyad Castle while it is still open.
Vajdahunyad Castle
The artificial lake around Vajdahunyad Castle is used for boating during summer and ice skating during winter.
Vajdahunyad Castle was built because of Hungary’s millennium exhibition. And it’s located right in the heart of City Park. Yet, the initial castle structure was made up of just wooden planks and cardboard! The Dracula’s Transylvania inspired castle was only reconstructed with permanent materials later as a result of its popularity. It has since become a favourite for the locals.
I am very confused with the various architectural styles found inside the castle. It seems like a big melting pot with the combination of Gothic, Renaissance, Romanesque and Baroque all coming as one. Maybe it’s me but the unusual architectural fusion probably didn’t work for me…
And in the courtyard of Vajdahunyad Castle sits the statue of Anonymous.
It’s probably me but the empty castle is a little spooky after sunset, especially so when I was the only one there. Hence, I quickly moved to check out the neo-Baroque style Széchenyi Baths within the City Park.
I couldn’t stay long though as I need to pick up my bag at for Bo18 Hotel Superior and head to Budapest Keleti railway station. How I wish I have another 3 days in Budapest…oh well…
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