Buda Castle

In the 13th century, trying to protect the city against a Tatar and Mongolian invasion, King Béla IV ordered to build a fortified complex on the hill, on the bank of the Danube.

In the 15th century the Royal Castle in Budapest gained unprecedented size, becoming one of the most beautiful architectural complexes in Europe.

In 1526 the Buda area was for the first time conquered by the Turks, who although impressed by the luxury and greatness they found, plundered and burned the castle anyway. The long rule of the Turks that lasted a hundred and forty years was a very sad period for the city and the stronghold, which from a magnificent royal palace turned into a border stronghold on the outskirts of the Ottoman Empire.

After the castle was recaptured, it had to face adversities many times because of natural disasters, plagues, fires and other misfortunes. It was not until 1749 the construction of a new royal palace ended.

However during the Hungarian revolution of 1849 insurgents occupied Buda Castle, as a result of fighting fire consumed the castle.  Finally, in 1912 a ceremonial opening of another new palace was held.

During World War II, in the times of bloody fights for the city, Buda Castle went to ruin. During their retreat, the Nazi army blew up and burnt the most beautiful Buda building. It took a few decades to reconstruct it. It was not until 1966 when it regained its former appearance, and the historical interior was not reconstructed until 1980.