St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest

In the heart of Budapest, just a few steps from the Danube, the majestic dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) rises proudly above the city skyline. As the largest church in Hungary, it impresses not only with its monumental architecture and exquisite interior, but also with its spiritual significance and the spectacular panoramic view from the dome’s terrace.

A Masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance Architecture

As you step into the square in front of the basilica, your eyes are drawn to the symmetrical façade, flanked by twin towers and crowned by a massive central portal. Inside, the vast interior can accommodate up to 8,500 people. Gilded decorations, intricate mosaics, marble columns, and a richly adorned high altar leave no doubt about the grandeur of this sacred space. The highlight is the 96-meter-high dome – those who conquer the 297 steps (or take the elevator) are rewarded with a 360-degree view over Budapest.

The basilica is also known for its music: it hosts regular organ concerts and classical performances, offering unforgettable acoustics and atmosphere. For those interested in history and art, guided tours are available, including access to the treasury and the dome.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon, when the sunlight streams through the stained-glass windows and bathes the interior in a magical glow.

The Holy Right: Hungary’s Most Sacred Relic

One of the basilica’s most revered treasures is the Holy Right (Szent Jobb) – the mummified right hand of St. Stephen I, the first king of Hungary and the basilica’s namesake. Housed in a beautifully ornate reliquary in a side chapel, it draws pilgrims from across the country. The relic plays a central role in Hungary’s National Day celebrations on August 20, when it is honored with processions and ceremonies.

The story of St. Stephen’s Basilica dates back to the mid-19th century, with initial plans taking shape in the 1840s. Construction began in 1851 under architect József Hild. After his death, Miklós Ybl – one of Hungary’s most renowned architects – took over and gave the building its final Neo-Renaissance design. But even Ybl didn’t live to see its completion. After more than five decades of construction, and numerous interruptions, the church was finally inaugurated in 1905 under the direction of József Kauser.

Since 1987, the basilica has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes Budapest’s historic city center.

St. Stephen’s Basilica is located in the heart of Budapest’s 5th district (Pest side), just a short walk from Széchenyi István Square and the Danube River. It’s easily accessible on foot from the riverbank, the Chain Bridge, or the popular pedestrian shopping street Váci utca.

The best public transport connections are via the metro lines M1 ("Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út") and M3 ("Arany János utca") – both stations are just a 3-minute walk from the basilica. Alternatively, bus lines 15 and 115 stop at "Hercegprímás utca", just around the corner.