01/09/2026
"Stories Behind - part I."
Budapest is one of Europe's most beautiful capitals, but its landmarks are much more than impressive buildings and scenic viewpoints.
Behind the city's magnificent architecture are tales of kings and queens, heroic battles, legendary builders, and fascinating myths that continue to captivate visitors today.
If you're planning a visit to Budapest, here are the most famous landmarks and the remarkable stories behind them.
Why Does Fisherman's Bastion Have Seven Towers?
One of Budapest's most photographed attractions is the beautiful Fisherman's Bastion.
Completed in 1902, the Bastion was designed as a panoramic terrace celebrating Hungary's 1,000th anniversary. Its seven elegant towers symbolize the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in 895 and laid the foundations of the Hungarian nation.
Its name comes from the medieval fishermen's guild, which was responsible for defending this section of the city walls during the Middle Ages.
The Parliament Building Was Designed to Impress
The magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building is not only Hungary's most famous building, but it is also one of the largest parliamentary buildings in the world. Construction began in 1885 and took nearly twenty years to complete.
The building contains almost 700 rooms, hundreds of statues, and nearly 40 kilograms of gold decoration. Its purpose was clear: to demonstrate the confidence, prosperity, and growing importance of Hungary following the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867.
Matthias Church Has Witnessed More Than 700 Years of History
Standing proudly in the heart of Buda Castle, Matthias Church has witnessed coronations, wars, occupations, and royal weddings.
Although officially named the Church of Our Lady, it became known as Matthias Church because King Matthias Corvinus held two of his weddings here during the 15th century.
During the Ottoman occupation of Budapest, the church was converted into a mosque for almost 150 years before returning to Christian worship.
Ready to visit Budapest? Join one of Eurama's guided Budapest sightseeing tours, where experienced local guides bring centuries of Hungarian history to life.