The Hungarian Girl » Budapest

Best authentic souvenirs from Hungary

The Hungarian Girl — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:03:06 +0000

Handmade dolls for sale in Hollóko, located in northeastern Hungary.

The best souvenirs are those that are specific to the place you visited and, ideally, made by local people. You’ll not only be buying something special but you’ll also be supporting the local economy. If you’re traveling to Hungary and are hoping to bring back a memorable gift, here is a list of ideas for souvenirs that embrace the culture and heritage of Hungary.

Paprika

The perfect souvenir for anyone that loves to cook, paprika is the national spice of Hungary and used extensively in Hungarian cuisine. There are several versions of paprika in Hungary ranging from édes (sweet) to eros (hot) as well as everything in between. You can buy paprika in almost any market or food shop and most are fairly inexpensive. Alternatively, there are many products containing paprika as an ingredient such as paprika pastes.

Wine

Pálinka

A ubiquitous specialty known throughout Hungary, pálinka is the generic name for a fiery fruit brandy. There are many flavors to choose from including plum, apricot, and apple, so even if you find the drink overwhelming, you can still have fun trying to find a flavor that suits your palate. Pálinka also comes in various sizes and shapes, making it an ideal gift.

Embroidery

Of the most cherished aspects of Hungarian culture, is its rich heritage in needlework. Bold colors, floral patterns, and rich textures all characterize embroidery from Hungary. You can find all kinds of handmade items including tablecloths, linens, serving towels, and even garments at markets and festivals across the country.

Porcelain

Anyone with an interest in porcelain, we’ll certainly be able to appreciate Hungary’s legendary history in porcelain-making being of the world’s most sought-after. Among the most famous manufacturers are Herend and Zsolnay, both of which have been producing fine porcelain for decades. You can visit these manufacturers directly and purchase products at their gift shops.

Cured Meats

Hungary is renowned for its production of speciality cured meats. Most are flavored with paprika and are made from traditional recipes. Look out for brands like Pick and Herz. Pork from Mangalica, an indigenous curly-haired pig, is also highly regarded for its exceptional taste.

Woman’s Suffrage Congress: vintage photos

The Hungarian Girl — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 07:37:46 +0000

In 1913, the 7th Congress of the International Women’s Suffrage Alliance (IWSA) met in Budapest. The aim of the convention was to raise public awareness of women’s issues in Hungary. In particular, the alliance wanted to work with city council to establish a women’s aid office as well as day care centers.

Here’s a look a some of the photos that were taken during the convention. All photos are the courtesy of the New York Public Library archives.

In front of Congress headquarters.

Crowd scene in front of a building.

Holding up copies of "A Nok" the Hungarian feminist newspaper.

Dr. István Bározy, mayor of Budapest with his secretary, Mr. Barchy.

Mrs. Frigga Carlberg of Göteborg, a town councellor (2nd row, middle, marked 'x'), with other members.

Congress members and a street vendor.

Parliament terrace luncheon.

Congress members in conversation in Mezokövesd. Behind them are women in traditional costumes.

International Doll Exhibit for Congress funds.

Group of women and their babies on the street.

Nurses bathing babies.

Party goers entering Fisherman's Bastion.

Steve Jobs statue unveiled in Graphisoft Park

The Hungarian Girl — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 03:33:07 +0000

Steve Jobs statue at Graphisoft Park in Budapest. Photo courtesy of Szabolcs Dudás

A larger-than size bronze statue of the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs was unveiled today at the Graphisoft Park in Budapest.

The statue was commissioned by Graphisoft Founder and Chairman of the Board Gabor Bojar.

The relationship between Graphisoft and Apple can be traced to the 1980’s, when Jobs came across the first version of Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD software at the 1984 CeBIT in Germany. His first impressions of the software led him to throw Apple’s support behind the development and distribution of ArchiCAD.

“Apple’s support included cash and computers at a time when Graphisoft was a small company with limited resources, working within the economic and political confines of what was, at the time, communist Hungary,” Mr. Bojar said in a statement.

Crafted by Hungarian sculptor Erno Toth, the statue is the first in the world honoring Jobs in such a fashion.

Jobs died on October 5 of pancreatic cancer at the age of 56.

Budapest Christmas markets

Zita Nagy — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:07:58 +0000

‘Tis the season once again in Budapest, where the city is transformed into twinkling, aromatic open-air markets. Filled with traditional arts and crafts, mulled wine, and tasty eats, these holiday bazaars offer a great way to experience some of the local culture while shopping for special gifts. The largest and most colorful market is located at Vörösmarty Square which includes over 100 wooden pavilions as well as a live music and stage performances. The other four main markets are located at Saint Stephen’s Basilica, Liszt Ferenc Square, Gozsdu udvar and the Museum of Applied Arts.

Visitors walk through the Christmas market in Vörösmarty Square.

A vendor serves a cup of mulled wine to a customer.

Christmas tree decorations hanging on display at a stall.

Fresh sausages for sale at a meat stall.

A vendor cooks meat on a grill.

A vendor serves a bag of roasted chestnuts to a customer.

Kürtöskalács (also known as chimney cakes) on hot coals.

Stuffed cabbage and other street food for sale.

Visitors having a drink at a stall.

Budapest Christmas market souvenir mugs.

Nativity scene in the market.

Visitors skate at an ice rink next to St. Stephen's Basilica at night.

Bridges of Budapest

The Hungarian Girl — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:11:35 +0000

Budapest has eight bridges that extend across the Danube. Each of these bridges have played an important role in the development and infrastructure of the city. Some have even become icons because of their influence and engineering wonder while others are known for their remarkable beauty. Here’s a brief highlight of each bridge that includes some facts and statistics.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Year opened: 1849
Length: 202 meters
Type: Suspension bridge

One of the city's most famous landmarks, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge was the first bridge to span the Danube connecting the two halves of the city Buda and Pest. It is named in honor of its initiator, István Széchenyi, but was actually built by Scotsman Adam Clark. In 1945, Germans troops destroyed the bridge as well as all the others that were in existence at that time. The bridge was rebuilt in November 1949.

Margaret Bridge

Year opened: 1876
Length: 637.5 meters
Type: Suspension bridge

Margaret Bridge was built according to the design of Emile Gouin who worked together with Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, the creator of the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty in New York. It became into the most used bridge in the city until it was blown up, parts of the Pest side in 1944 from an accidental explosion and then parts of the Buda side in 1945 by German troops. The great need for the bridge made the repairing go fast, and it was opened again in 1947.

Liberty Bridge

Year opened: 1896
Length: 333.6 meters
Type: Suspension bridge

Although radically different in structure, Liberty Bridge imitates the general outline of a chain-type bridge, which was considered an aesthetically preferable form at the time of its construction. The bridge was opened in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph in which the last silver nail was inserted into the structure by the Emperor himself, and the bridge was originally named after him. Each post of the bridge is topped by a mythical turul bird.

Elizabeth Bridge

Year opened: 1964
Length: 637.5 meters
Type: Suspension bridge with portal frame

The Elizabeth Bridge received its name from Queen Elisabeth, a queen in Austria-Hungary, who was assassinated in 1898. The original bridge was completed in 1903 but was destroyed during World War II and could not be restored. The new version is a white suspension bridge which connects from the base of Gellert Hill and into Kossuth Lajos utca, perpendicular to Vaci utca.

Arpad Bridge

Year opened: 1950
Length: 981 meters
Type: Beam bridge

As the Hungarians came to “Hungary” in 896, they were led by the chieftain Árpad. He is also the name giver of the most northern bridge of Budapest, the Arpad Bridge. Though it carried the name of Stalin from its opening in 1950 to 1958, it regained its original name in 1958. It is said to be the most used bridge in Budapest. It also contains a little bridge, connecting it to the northern side of Margaret Island.

Petofi Bridge

Year opened: 1937
Length: 514 meters
Type: Truss bridge

Rather nondescript in design yet functional, Petofi Bridge connects Boraros ter with Goldmann Gyorgy ter. It is named after Petofi Sandor, Hungary's most beloved poet and a hero of the Hungarian War of Independence, during which he was killed in 1849.

Lagymanyosi Bridge

Year opened: 1995
Length: 494 meters
Type: Steel girder bridge

Named after the south Buda district of Lágymányos, this bridge is the southernmost and second newest bridge in Budapest. The new Hungarian National Theatre and the Palace of Arts is located directly across from the pest side of the bridge.

Megyeri Bridge

Year opened: 2008
Length: 1,862 meters
Type: Cable-stayed bridge

Megyeri Bridge, previously known as the Northern M0 Danube bridge, is the newest and longest bridge in Budapest. It connects Újpest with Budakalász through the Szentendre Island. A naming poll to determine the new name of the bridge caused controversy and received widespread media attention.

What to drink in Hungary

The Hungarian Girl — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:48:01 +0000

Bottles of palinka for sale at a wine shop in Budapest. Palinka is one of Hungary's most prized drinks.

Hungary has a vast array of alcoholic beverages including quality wines and beers, as well as liqueurs and brandies that are made exclusively in the country.

Here are a few suggestions of various drinks to try.

Egészségedre! (Cheers!)

Palinka

Produced in both Hungary and Transylvania, this traditional brandy is made from various kinds of fruit such as plums, pears, apricots, mulberries or quinces. It is consumed at all hours of the day, but is particularly popular as an after work or after dinner drink. A must try!

Wine

Hungary is famous for its excellent wines. There are 22 distinct wine regions across the country which produce the full spectrum of wine styles including reds, whites, roses, and sparkling wines. Tokaji Aszu, which comes from the Tokaj region, is Hungary most famous wine and is even mentioned in the Hungarian national anthem. Other wines include full-bodied, robust reds from Villány-Siklós and Szekszárd, while Somló and Badacsony is regarded for its mineral rich whites.

Beer

Although Hungary is better known as a wine-producing country, beer has been made here for over a thousand years and the country has a significant history of commercial beer production. Top domestic brands include Arany Ászok, Kobányai (the first commercial brewery in Hungary that was established in Buda in 1845), Borsodi, Soproni and Dreher. A number of small microbreweries have also emerged in recent years.

Spritzer

Spritzer also known as fröccs in Hungarian, is a popular drink in Hungary that is mixed from wine and soda water in varying proportions. The most common is the basic classic, known as the “nagy“, or large, fröccs. This is a mix of two parts wine to one part soda water, a third of a litre in size. Fröccs is especially ideal for the summer.

Unicum

This traditional bitter liqueur has been produced by the Zwach family for over 150 years. It is a blend of 40 different herbs, based on an old secret recipe. Unicum is sold in a characteristic bomb-shaped bottle which features a golden cross on the front. Usually drunk as an apéritif, Unicum is an acquired taste.

Twenty years and still going strong

Kristian Kielmayer — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 19:12:50 +0000

Visitors arriving at the entrance of the Budapest International Wine Festival. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the festival which was founded by the Hungarian Viniculture Foundation in 1991.

After spending an enjoyable day at the Budapest International Wine Festival last week, I thought I would share some of my favorite moments.

Arriving in style

If you know Budapest, you know how painfully slow your journey can be through the city. I tend to walk, sometimes it’s the quickest way, but this time I decided to arrive in style by taking the funicular which links at river level from the Chain Bridge to the Buda Castle above. I bet the Ottomans would have loved to have such a transport into the castle as well!

It’s like a big family

If you work long enough in the wine business you will evidently catch up with people who you know, it’s like family, a big family and it gets bigger. My mentor and friend Robert Cey-Bert introduced me to some friends from Serbia and we had a great discussion about the wine regions of “Szerémség” (today Croatia and Serbia). Emperor Probus home town is in the area; it was thanks to him that vine growing got re-established in Pannonia. It is also the home of the Tarcal mountain (also known as Fruska Gora today) and what better way to be acquainted with this region than to try a glass of Tokaji (as Tarcal is also a town within the wine region of Tokaj). One of the wines we happen to sample was a Muscat Lunel 6 puttonyos aszú 2006 from Crown Estate. Both the base wine and the aszú berries come from 100% Muscat Lunel. It’s rather unsual to have base wine and aszú grapes made from this variety, as it’s the least planted.

Olaszrizling step-child or more

You either like it or hate the idea of Olaszrizling as a leading grape variety. Some people look at it as rather inferior, especially as it does not have the same quality as Riesling (no relationship what so ever), on the other side it’s the most planted grape variety in Hungary and it does occasionally shine and makes more than just a coughing wine. While Szekszárd is clearly a red wine region, the Olaszrizling from Bösz Adrián showed the typical characters of the Olaszrizling. Dry, slightly tangy, salty-mineral note with a citrus fruit touch of floralness in the background and in this case a bit of the less protective (oxidative) character. The Kálikövek a new winery from the northern side of Balaton had a blend of Rajnai (Riesling) and Olaszrizling (Welschriesling). The Rezeda from the 2010 vintage was delicious with ripe fruit, notes of maracuja and pineapple followed by some floral notes and a hint of cashew nuts in the background, supported by great acidity.

Meeting the wine personalities

Winemakers have opinions and that’s good. They should interpret their passion from the land on which they live and Mother Nature via their wines. Attila Németh from the NAG winery of the Mátra regions does this. He is not afraid to let the wine be as nature wants it. By this I mean, if the wine has some residual sugar, so let it be. It’s about the balance, not just individual bits and pieces of the wine. József Horváth from the Ráspi Winery at the Sopron wine region shares similar thoughts. He not only runs one of the best restaurants in the country at the Fertö Lake (near the Austrian border) but delivers quality and passion through his wines. The main focus for him is “terroir”; he really wants to know what’s possible in each unit and elevates Kékfrankos and Zweigelt into a different league.

Budapest International Wine Festival: photo gallery

The Hungarian Girl — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 17:40:21 +0000

The Budapest International Wine Festival is the largest and most prestigious wine festival in Hungary. Featuring wines from across the country and the world, the festival is a great opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of Hungarian wine making and meet renowned wine makers, while enjoying traditional Hungarian music and gastronomic delights. Several wine workshops and lectures are also held. A charity wine auction wraps up the event, with proceeds donated to the Hungarian Maltese Charity Service.

Here are some of the highlights of the festival which were taken by our photographer Gabor Ancsin.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the festival which was founded by the Hungarian Viniculture Foundation in 1991.

The festival is traditionally held at the grounds of the Buda Castle district, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

There are 220 winemakers from 15 countries with a total of 5,000 wines on exhibit.

The festival's location provides a breathtaking view over the Danube.

Wine bottles of Disznóko, a well-established winery that produces some of the country's best sweet wines.

VinAgora Tent which allows visitors the opportunity to learn about the customary methods of wine evaluation.

A bottle of Szent István's Korona Szekszárdi Bikavér, a full-bodied red wine from the Szekszárd wine region.

Vendors pouring samples of wine at the Bock winery booth.

Attila Gere, owner and winemaker of Gere Attila Pincészete located in Villány.

Vendor preparing "tócsni", which is similar to a potato pancake.

Cherry strudel "meggyes rétes", one of the many favorite foods to enjoy at the festival.

Visitors enjoying a live performance on stage.

István Pál with the Szalonna band.

The festival continues to attract more visitors each year.

Visitors enjoying a glass of wine overlooking the Danube.

Evening at the festival with the Buda Castle in the background.

Tom Lantos Institute unveiled in Budapest

The Hungarian Girl — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:16:44 +0000

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton delivers her speech during the inauguration of the Tom Lantos Institute. Photo courtesy of U.S. Department of State.

The Tom Lantos Institute was officially inaugurated in parliament this week with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and her predecessor Condoleezza Rice leading the ceremonies.

The institute, named after Hungarian-born U.S. Congressman Tom Lantos, was established to promote tolerance and support minority issues in Central and Eastern Europe and in the world.

“This represents an important commitment on the part of the Hungarian government to advance human rights, protect minority rights, promote tolerance and strengthen trans-Atlantic relations,” Lantos Foundation President Katrina Lantos Swett announced.

Lantos was born to a Hungarian Jewish family in Budapest in 1928 and survived the Nazi occupation of Hungary in the final year of the Second World War before emigrating to the United States. He became the only Holocaust survivor to enter the U.S. Congress when he was elected in 1981. He died in February 2008, at the age of 80.

Budapest transit system

The Hungarian Girl — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:58:26 +0000

If you’re spending time in Budapest, chances are you’ll be taking public transportation at some point. As one of Europe’s oldest transportation systems, the Budapesti Közlekedési Vállalat (BKV) has many fascinating and unique elements about it. Here’s a photo gallery with a bit of history and background information.

The public transportation system in Budapest is operated by the company Budapesti Közlekedési Vállalat (BKV). The service includes buses, trolleybuses, trams, underground trains (Metro) and above-ground suburban trains.

The underground metro consists of three lines and are each designated by a number and a color. Line 4 is currently under construction; the first section is scheduled to open in 2014. Line 5 is in the early planning stages.

Passengers on Line 2 which was constructed from 1950 to 1963.

Deák Ferenc tér transfer station for the M1, M2, and M3 lines.

A passenger inserts a ticket in the validating machine. Tickets are validated at the station entrance before taking the escalator, and must be retained until leaving the metro.

Passengers waiting on the platform of Deák Ferenc tér.

Passengers exiting a long escalator in the Metro underground.

The Metro 1 also known as Millennium Underground Railway or M1 is the oldest line of the Budapest Metro system. It was built from 1894 to 1896. In 2002, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The original line followed a northeast-southwest route along Andrássy Avenue from Vörösmarty Square to the City Park. There were a total of eleven stations, with nine underground and two above ground.

Passengers waiting for a tram. There are over thirty tram lines stretching along the city and connecting almost all districts of Budapest.

The articulated bus is a hallmark of Budapest; both diesel and ETB bendy vehicles have been running since the late 1950s.

A blue urban bus in the Buda district.