Heroes' Square in Budapest

At the end of Budapest’s elegant Andrássy Avenue lies one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere). With its towering Millennium Monument, flanked by grand museums and the City Park (Városliget), the square is a favorite destination for visitors – and has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002.

At the heart of the square stands a 36-meter-high column, topped by the Archangel Gabriel, who holds the Hungarian Holy Crown of St. Stephen. At the base of the column, equestrian statues of the seven Magyar chieftains represent the founding of the Hungarian nation in the 9th century. Behind them, semi-circular colonnades showcase statues of important Hungarian rulers, kings, and statesmen, creating a powerful visual tribute to the country’s thousand-year history.

Right next to the square are two major museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art (Műcsarnok). Just beyond lies City Park (Városliget) – home to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the Budapest Zoo, and the fairytale-like Vajdahunyad Castle. Heroes’ Square is not only a must-see landmark, but also the perfect starting point for exploring this vibrant part of the city.

Heroes’ Square was laid out in 1896 to mark the 1000th anniversary of the Magyar conquest of the Carpathian Basin. The design was created by architect Albert Schickedanz, who also designed the neighboring Hall of Art. The central Millennium Monument was completed in 1929.

The square honors the most important figures in Hungarian history – from tribal leaders and kings to modern reformers. Over the years, it has also become a key site for national celebrations, political events, and public gatherings.

Heroes’ Square is located on the Pest side of Budapest, at the eastern end of Andrássy Avenue, one of the city’s grandest boulevards leading directly into the city center. The square also marks the main entrance to City Park (Városliget).

The easiest way to reach Heroes’ Square is by metro line M1 – Budapest’s historic underground line. The station "Hősök tere" is located directly beneath the square. Alternatively, you can exit at "Széchenyi fürdő" (one stop further) if you plan to visit the thermal bath first.

Several bus lines stop nearby, and the square is also easily accessible by bike – a dedicated cycling path runs along Andrássy Avenue straight to the square. Parking spaces are limited due to ongoing redevelopment in the surrounding City Park area.