This neo-renaissance or neo-classical church is the largest religious monument in Budapest and thus in Hungary. The enormous St. Stephen’s Basilica is located on the left bank of Budapest. It offers a breathtaking view of the city from its dome—more pictures of the Basilica.

The treasure of St. Stephen’s Basilica

While in France the separation of church and state was celebrated, in Hungary the Basilica of St. Stephen was inaugurated. In 1905, Emperor Franz Joseph established this splendid building in memory of Istvan, who had died nine centuries earlier.

The Basilica, which is 87 meters long and 65 meters wide, is out of the ordinary. Still, it blends rather well into the city. The dome rises to a height of 96 meters, an undeniable architectural feat. To discover this religious monument, you have to go to the Lipotvaros district, pass through the thick gate, and finally reach the interior of the memorial.

What is even more remarkable are the decorations and paintings. A richly decorated place where you can find marble, mosaics, stained-glass windows as well as many pictures and sculptures. The architect Jozsef Kauser was commissioned to complete, furnish and decorate the interior of the Basilica. The result is impressive and very busy. Despite this, one never tires of admiring the place.

Although the inauguration of the Basilica took place in 1905, the work was completed a year later in 1906. It took 55 years to build this religious building.

A breathtaking view from the dome

To reach the parapet walk of one of the towers, you have to take a small staircase that leads to the roof structure and then to the panoramic terrace. Even if the visit to this small panoramic terrace is not free of charge, it is one of the things to do in Budapest.

Address of St. Stephen’s Basilica: Szent Istvan ter, 1054 Budapest. Free entrance, but donations are welcome.

photo credits: Yann Vernerie