Sightseeing in Budapest
Overview
Budapest’s rich, and at times, complicated history has left indelible marks on the city’s façade. Turkish baths dating back to the days of Ottoman rule, somber shrines to Holocaust victims, bullet-ridden buildings from the revolution of 1956, and statues of grim looking men from the Communist era – the city is dotted with reminders like these that will mesmerize you on your medical tourism vacation, whether you're a history buff or not. Â
Castle Hill
Begin your medical tourism sightseeing with a visit to Castle Hill - the cobblestone pathways lead from one treasure to another in this sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many of the city's most popular tourist sights are located here. Matyas Church, for example, is a must for any religious or history buffs out there. Majestic and cavernous, its walls depict seminal scenes from Hungary's rich history. Close by is Fisherman’s Bastion; a structure that holds little wonder for the average fisherman, but remains a marvel for anyone interested in architecture. Be sure to visit all seven turrets (one for each of Hungary's 7 tribes). The Royal Place was built, destroyed, and rebuilt many times. Today, the palace boasts of a mix of architectural styles, owing in no small measure to these constant reconstruction efforts. It also houses three museums.Â
The Millenary Monument
This impressive monument was erected to commemorate the thousandth anniversary of the Magyar conquest. It is actually a collection of statues representing Hungarian monarchs. A column at the center is surrounded by seven figures representing the seven tribes.Â
Stephen’s Basilica
The Basilica is not really a basilica at all, but a stamp of approval given by the Pope granted it this high status. The dome is close to 96 meters high, and the interior includes a marble statue of Saint Stephen.Â
Central Synagogue
To better understand Hungary's role in the Holocaust, don’t miss out on a visit to the Central Synagogue on your medical tourism holiday. Second in size only to the Temple Emmanuel in New York, the Central Synagogue is distinguished by its Moorish domes. When Adolph Eichmann came to the city to supervise the establishment of the Jewish ghetto, more than 20,000 Jews found sanctuary in the Synagogue. Many would die before liberation came, and their remains were buried in the Synagogue complex itself. The rear portion of the temple serves as a memorial to the Holocaust, with the Weeping Willow in the center inscribed with the names of Jewish families who perished. More Holocaust memories are preserved in a special wing inside the Synagogue.| Previous, Dining in Budapest | Next, Recreation in Budapest |
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