Budapest: Tracing 150 Years of History

Published: November 17 2023

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, has a rich history that spans over 150 years. From its origins as a Celtic settlement to its status as a vibrant metropolis, the city has undergone significant changes and developments. In this article, we will explore key milestones in the history of Budapest.

Budapest's history can be traced back to the 4th century BC when the Celts occupied parts of Hungary. It was later conquered by the Roman Empire, which established the town of Aquincum in the 1st century AD. The ruins of Aquincum can still be seen in present-day Budapest.

The 19th century was a period of booming development for Budapest. The unification of three settlements led to the city becoming a metropolis. Significant industrial and trade developments took place, and many public institutions were established. The iconic cityscape of downtown Budapest, which attracts domestic and international tourists, was also established during this era.

In the late 19th century, Budapest underwent further construction and expansion. An urbanism competition was held in 1870, won by Lajos Lechner, leading to the city becoming a constant construction area. The widening of the streets in Pest began, and landmarks such as the Andrássy road and the main ring were established. Bridges were built, including the Margarethe Bridge, and cultural venues like coffee houses and cabarets, such as the famous New York Café, opened their doors. The Opera House, designed by Miklós Ybl, was also completed in this period.

The zenith of Budapest's history in the late 19th century was the Millennium year in 1896. A monumental exhibition was organized in the city park (Városliget), showcasing the city's achievements. The first underground metro system in continental Europe was also built during this time. While the 20th century brought turbulent historical events that marked the cityscape, Budapest has emerged as a glorious and vibrant metropolis. Today, the city welcomes lovers of classical and contemporary art, gastronomy, history, and nature.

As Budapest celebrates its birthday, it is worth reflecting on the city's rich and diverse history. From its Celtic and Roman origins to its development as a bustling metropolis, Budapest has evolved into a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a lover of arts and culture, Budapest offers a wealth of experiences to discover. Happy birthday, Budapest!

Source: Budapestinfo.hu

What is the history of Budapest? The origins of Budapest can be traced back to the 4th century BC when the Celts occupied parts of Hungary. It was later conquered by the Roman Empire, which established the town of Aquincum around AD 100 on the site of today's city of Budapest.

When did Budapest become a metropolis? Budapest became a real metropolis by the turn of the century after the unification of the three settlements. There was a booming development in the city, significant industrial and trade developments, and the establishment of many public institutions during this time.

When did the construction of Budapest begin? The construction of Budapest began in 1870 after an urbanism competition was launched. The winner of the competition was Lajos Lechner, and from that time on, the city became a constant construction area with the widening of the streets of Pest. The building of Andrássy Road and the main ring also began during this period.

What significant venues were opened in Budapest during this era? Several main venues of social life, such as coffee houses and cabarets, were opened in Budapest during this era. Examples include the famous New York Café, the Central Café, and the Somossy Orfeum. Additionally, the Opera House, designed by Miklós Ybl, opened its doors to the public in 1884.

What was the Millennium year in Budapest? The Millennium year in Budapest was in 1896. On this occasion, a monumental exhibition was organized, and the buildings of the exhibition were placed in the city park (Városliget). The first underground of continental Europe was also built during the Millennium year.

How has Budapest changed over the years? Budapest has experienced stormy historical events throughout the 20th century, which have marked the cityscape. However, the present-day Budapest is a glorious and vibrant metropolis that opens wide its gates to lovers of classical and contemporary art, gastronomy, history, and nature.

When is Budapest's birthday? The General Assembly of the City of Budapest declared 17 November as the day of Budapest on 21 March 1991.