The Hungarian Girl » Budapest

Photographer of the Week: Krisztina Erdodi

The Hungarian Girl — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:02:40 +0000

Each week we will select a photographer whose work either showcases or reflects elements of Central and Eastern Europe from professionals to hobbyist photographers around the world. This week our photographer is Krisztina Erdodi from Budapest, Hungary. Here’s a brief collection of her photos that showcase the many beautiful regions of Hungary.

Name: Krisztina Erdodi
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Camera Equipment: Canon PowerShot A710
Inspirations: See and show the beauty of Hungary
Favourite Destination: Buda Castle District (Budapest) and a lot of marvellous lands of Hungary.
Website Link: http://picasaweb.google.com/kittacsiga

The ‘Sziklás’ hill in Buda hills. You can find many hiking possibilities, very close to the capital. Most of them are nature reserves, such as this one.

Amazing panorama from Citadel of Visegrád. Visegrád was a royal residency in the medieval age. Due to King Matthias’ palatial construction, it became Europe’s most beautiful renaissance royal court at that time.

Colourful houses nearby the fishpond, in the lovely old town of Tapolca.

Gate tower of Sümeg castle. It’s the best-preserved fortress in Hungary, where spectacular medieval shows are held every summer.

View from St. George hill, in the beautiful Upper Balaton area.

If your interested in becoming our photographer of the week, please visit our contact page.

Sziget Festival

The Hungarian Girl — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 04:24:12 +0000

The Sziget Festival takes place on Óbudai-sziget ("Old-Buda Island"), an island in the Danube, Budapest, Hungary. Photo courtesy of Sziget Festival.

Get the party started!

Hungary’s largest and most popular music festival will be happening from August 11- 16th on Óbudai Island, in the heart of Budapest.

The event draws hundreds of thousands of revellers for a week of great music, camping and partying.

Highlights for this year include performances by Iron Maiden, Muse, Fear Factory, Billy Talent, as well as upcoming bands from Hungary. A series of art exhibitions, literary events and classical music concerts and children’s programmes are also held at the festival, making it a highly diverse gathering.

The Sziget Festival originally started in 1993 as a relatively low-profile student event playing host to various Hungarian artists and has grown into a large European festival attracting over 400,000 visitors each year, half of which come from outside Hungary.

For more information including the program schedule and tickets, visit the Sziget Festival website.

Hollywood in Hungary

The Hungarian Girl — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 21:45:02 +0000

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army (2008) was the first American production to shoot at the Korda Studios in Hungary.

Hungary has made appearances in a variety of foreign films and television productions. With its ever-expanding capacity of production facilities and unique varied locations, Hungary is making it’s mark in Hollywood. Cities like Budapest have been able to pass off as London, East and West Berlin, Paris and even Buenos Aires. Hungary has also provided significant tax incentives to foreign productions making it a very budget very location.

So, if your eager to see Hungary on the big screen, take a closer look at some of these productions.

Bel Ami (2011)

Staring Robert Pattinson and Uma Thurman, this upcoming film follows a young man’s rise to power in Paris by manipulating a series of powerful, intelligent, and wealthy mistresses. Budapest’s New York Palace Hotel is featured in the film. Rumor has it that Pattinson’s girlfriendKristen Stewart came to Budapest to spent time with him and to celebrate her birthday in the capital city.

The Pillars of the Earth (2009)

Set in 12th-century England, the narrative concerns the building of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. The ambitions of three men merge, conflict and collide through 40 years of social and political upheaval as internal church politics affect the progress of the cathedral and the fortunes of the protagonists. Filming of this mini-series took place throughout Hungary and Austria.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (2008)

Set during World War II, this film is seen through the innocent eyes of Bruno, an eight-year-old son of the commandant at a concentration camp, whose forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence has startling and unexpected consequences. Most of the film was shot in Budapest with local Hungarian crew members and studio space being used.

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army (2008)

In this superhero sequel, Hellboy must defeat the evil prince before The Golden Army can destroy humanity’s existence. The film was the first American production to shoot at Korda Studios in Hungary. The creature shop was led by the company Spectral Motion, and Filmefex contributed work in makeup and prosthetics. The latter company designed a creature for the troll market scene and built several statues and full-sized replicas of the Golden Army.

Munich (2005)

Based on the true story of the Black September aftermath, this film is about the five men chosen to eliminate the ones responsible for that fateful day. The hotel lobby of the Marriott Budapest Hotel, Puskás Ferenc Stadium, and Tököl Airport are just a few of the recognizable locations seen in this film.

I Spy (2002)

Based on the 1960′s television series I Spy. Two agents are are reluctantly paired for a dangerous mission to recover a missing jet. Hungary’s most famous landmarks, Buda Castle and Széchenyi Chain Bridge are featured in this action film.

An American Rhapsody (2001)

A young Hungarian girl struggles to find her place in the world when she’s reunited with her parents in the USA years after she was left behind during their plight from the communist regime in the 1950s. Budapest Ferihegy Airport makes a cameo.

Sunshine (1999)

Sunshine tells the story of a Jewish family living in Hungary through three generations, rising from humble beginnings to positions of wealth and power in the crumbling Austro-Hungarian Empire. The film includes many historical buildings and monuments throughout Budapest.

Evita (1996)

The hit musical based on the life of Evita Duarte, a B-picture Argentinian actress who eventually became the wife of Argentinian president Juan Peron, and the most beloved and hated woman in Argentina. The streets of Budapest are made to look like Buenos Aires. The Museum of Ethnography and Liberty Square can also be seen in the film.

Music Box (1989)

Music Box tells the story of a Hungarian-American immigrant who is accused of having been a war criminal. The plot revolves around his daughter, an attorney, who defends him, and her struggle to uncover the truth. Principal photography for the film started on location in Chicago, but for later scenes of the film the production was actually moved to Budapest, as the director wanted authenticity in what he considered some of the key scenes.

VinAgora Wine Gala

The Hungarian Girl — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 11:44:06 +0000

VinAgora Wine Gala

If your a Hungarian wine connoisseur, you don’t want to miss this event!

The 3rd annual VinAgora Wine Gala will be happening on July 3rd, 2010 in Budapest at the Applied Arts Museum.

The all-day gala provides an opportunity for the public to taste the more than 500 wines entered into the VinAgora Wine Competition. After the medals and awards have been give out, visitors can compare their opinions with that of the experts.

All of the wines will be presented with the detailed results they received such as score, wine profile, and bouquet list. Those of you who wish to learn even more can take part in 50-minute themed wine tastings as well, where experts of the field will guide visitors through a selection of wines which achieved outstanding results at the competition.

For more information about the gala, visit the Hungarian Viniculture Public Benefit Company website. Tickets can be purchased at Jegymester.

St Stephen’s Basilica

The Hungarian Girl — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 15:21:53 +0000

St Stephen’s Basilica is the largest ecclesiastical building in Budapest, named in honour of Stephen, the first King of Hungary (c 975–1038).

The spectacular St Stephen’s Basilica is a must see sight in Budapest. Named in honour of Stephen, the first King of Hungary (c 975–1038), the building is a symbol of Hungarian statehood and spiritualism.

Its sheer size and complexity resulted in St Stephen’s Basilica taking over 50 years to build. Construction was started in 1851 under the supervision of József Hild; however, the building was not completed until 1905 along with the assistance of three different architects. Much of this delay can be attributed to the collapse of the dome in 1868 which required complete demolition of the completed works and rebuilding from the ground up. Cleaning and restoration work have also been carried out over the years.

Built in neoclassical style, it comprises of a two distinctive bell towers with a vast dome in the centre. Ionic columns and statues of twelve apostles adore the outside walls which can be seen from a distance.

The interior features elaborately decorated chapels, intricate carvings and sculptures, bronze mouldings as well as many famous Hungarian works of art. Of particular note is a painting by notable artist Gyula Benczúr, it shows St Stephen offering the Hungarian crown to Mary.

The interior consists of marble and gilded-stucco. Famous Hungarian works of art can be seen throughout the building.

There is also the mummified hand of Stephen, Hungary’s holiest relic housed in a small chapel to the left of the main altar. On August 20, the relic is paraded around the church and through the streets of Budapest to commemorate his legacy to Hungary.

Vistiors can take an elevator or climb the stairs up to the cupola, from where a scenic view of the city can be enjoyed. In the southern tower is Hungary’s biggest bell, weighing over 9 tonnes.

Music lovers can also enjoy the excellent acoustics of St. Stephens Basilica by attending one of the organ concerts, which are held throughout the year. The paved piazza, full of restaurants amd cafes just outside the basilica also makes an excellent stopping-off point.

BudaFest Summer Music Festival

The Hungarian Girl — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 23:21:41 +0000

Andrassy Avenue viewed from below the arches of the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest.

The annual BudaFest Summer Music Festival will be happening from July 6th – August 17th in the heart of Budapest.

Featuring traditional klezmer (music of the Ashkenazic Jews of Eastern Europe), folk and jazz music, as well as famous operas, the festival is held in some of the city’s most beautiful historical buildings – the Hilton Dominican Court and the Hungarian State Opera House.

The mission of the festival is to promote the cultures of Hungarian music to locals and foreigners alike.

For more information about the event including the schedule, visit the VIP Arts Management website.

Photographer of the Week: Réka Solymosi

The Hungarian Girl — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:15:40 +0000

This is the first in our series called “Photographer of the Week.” Each week we will select a photographer whose work either showcases or reflects elements of Central and Eastern Europe from professionals to hobbyist photographers around the world. This week our photographer is Réka Solymosi from Stockholm, Sweden. The following are 3 photos from her portfolio. If you would like to see more of her gallery, be sure to visit her website.

Name: Réka Solymosi
Location: Stockholm, Sweden
Camera Equipment: Canon EOS 450D, various Sigma zooms and Canon EF USM fixes
Favourite Destination: any European capital!
Website Link: rekafoto.com

The inner dome of the St Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest.

Details at Kerepesi Cemetery, where many famous people rest.

Heroes’ Square under a stormy sky.

If your interested in becoming our photographer of the week, please visit our contact page.

Best Historical Hotels in Budapest

The Hungarian Girl — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 14:23:49 +0000

The New York Palace with it's stunning façade at night. Photo courtesy of Boscolo Hotels.

Budapest is known for its historical buildings including magnificent examples of neoclassicism and Art Nouveau. In the past decade, many of these establishments have been renovated and remodelled into high-class accommodations attracting all types of guests.

Here are just a few of the best hotels in Budapest that include both a great night’s stay and hold historical significance.

New York Palace

At the end of the 19th century the New York Life Insurance Company extended its business interests to Hungary, and assigned architect Alajos Hauszmann to build a four story eclectic palace. The New York Palace is one of Budapest’s most famous buildings and has attracted guests from all over the world. It features an eclectic neo-Renaissance style with lavishly decorated pillars, fine marble and ornate Italian furnishings throughout its premises. On the ground floor, the hotel is occupied by the historic New York Café, dubbed “the most beautiful café in the world”. Opened in 1894 by Sandor Steuer, a member of an important Hungarian coffee family, the café soon became the centre of Budapest’s vibrant artistic and cultural life at the turn of the twenty-first century. During the 1956 uprising, the building suffered significant damage and was deemed too costly to repair. However, all that changed when it was bought by Italian Boscolo Hotels in 2001 and was restored to its original splendour a few years later. The New York Palace remains one of the most beautiful and magnificent establishments in the city.

Entrance to the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace. The hotel consists of Art Nouveau style and architecture. Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

St. George Residence & Hotel

St. George Residence & Hotel is located in the picturesque Buda Castle District and is steps away from some of the city’s best historical sites such as Fisherman’s Bastion, the Matthias Church and Holy Trinity Square. Built on a 600 year-old foundation from the medical ages, it has served in many capacities over the years and has recently undergone major reconstructing to preserve its original beauty and heritage. The Baroque style hotel features 26 suites equipped with a bedroom, living room, bathroom, a fully-equipped kitchen and unlimited Internet access. As well as accommodation, the St. George Residence facilities are completed witharestaurant serving both Hungarian and International food, a coffee shop, a cigar room and numerous private living rooms and a medieval pub. The hotel makes an excellent choice for families and long-term visits.

Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

Situated on the banks of the Danube River, at the foot of the Chain Bridge, is the opulent and dramatic Hotel Gresham Palace. The building was originally home to the Gresham Life Insurance Company, which later became apartments before being converted to the Four Seasons Hotel in 2004. Its Art Nouveau style is reflected throughout the building including wrought-iron vents in the hallways, vast chandeliers, exquisite gold mosaic tiles on the façade, stained-glass windows, and cupolas. There are 179 spacious rooms and suites, many of which have balconies offering sensational views over the city. Inspired by Budapest’s rich spa heritage, the hotel has a spa and indoor pool which features underwater lighting and music.

Corinthia Hotel

Beautifully transformed and tenderly restored from the old Grand Hotel Royal in 2003, it has retained much of its original interior and breathtaking historical façade. Spread over six floors, its 414 air-conditioned guestrooms comprises of elegant decor with cherry wood furnishings and rich patterned fabrics. Corinthia Hotel offers a wide range of facilities including a 15-metre indoor swimming pool, several relaxation areas, saunas, steam bath, jacuzzis, a fitness room, tropical rain showers, Niagara bathtubs, mud baths, seaweed baths, as well as a variety of therapeutic and massage treatments.

Hotel Palazzo Zichy. The building was once the residence of a famous Hungarian noble, Count Nándor Zichy. Photo courtesy of Hotel Palazzo Zichy.

Hotel Palazzo Zichy

Originally designed and constructed in the 19th century, this luxury hotel once served as the residence of a famous Hungarian noble, Count Nándor Zichy. The 80-room hotel features stylish contemporary décor with state of the art facilities including flat panel televisions and complimentary high-speed Internet access in each suite. Guests are also treated to a buffet breakfast served in their unique glass-roofed restaurant, combining modern comforts with its historical atmosphere. Hotel Palazzo Zichy is conveniently located in the heart of Budapest’s palace district, near the M3 metro and only a 5-minute walk from the National Museum.

Danubius Hotel Astoria

Danubius Hotel Astoria is one of the most charming old-style hotels in Budapest. Opened in 1914 and built on the site of medieval town walls, it was named after the world-famous Waldorf Astoria in New York. Its deluxe rooms feature elegant antique-like white furnishings with fancy carpets, crystal chandeliers, glittering mirrors and stained-glass windows. The hotel’s traditional, yet fashionable Mirror Café & Restaurant serves excellent Hungarian delicacies as well as International flavours.

Summer on the Chain Bridge 2010

The Hungarian Girl — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:23:36 +0000

The historic Chain Bridge is Budapest's oldest bridge, which first linked the Buda and Pest sides of the city.

The largest free cultural festival in Budapest will be taking place each weekend from June 26 – August 15th along the Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

Traffic will be closed in the area to give way to pedestrians, baby strollers, roller skaters and onlookers.

Visitors can enjoy the pleasant views of the Danube while taking in performances of music, theatre and dance. There are also a number of food and drink stalls, arts and crafts for sale, and cultural displays. Programs are available for both children and adults alike.

The event brings a lively and upbeat atmosphere into the heart of the city.

For more information, visit the Budapest Festival Centre website.

The National Gallop 2010

The Hungarian Girl — Tue, 25 May 2010 16:36:51 +0000

The National Gallop is one of Hungary's largest equestrian events. Highlights include the historical gallop race in which Hungarian settlements compete against each other. Photo courtesy of vagta.hu.

The 2010 National Gallop will be happening from June 2 – 6th in Budapest.

The five day event is a celebration of Hungarian horsemanship dating back thousands of years when the Magyars first settled into the region. It includes traditional Hussar races, show jumping, dressageas, processions, historical parades, as well as children’s horse riding shows.

Visitors can get a glimpse into Hungarian horse riding culture by walking through the craft’s market known as “Gallop Promenade” along Andrássy Street, between Bajza street and Heroes’ Square. Participating villages and towns will each have a pavilion in which they can introduce themselves. Folk music performances and traditional Hungarian cuisine are also part of the event.

Over 300,00 visitors attend the festival each year including horse enthusiasts from around the world.

The National Gallop is a free event. Tickets are available for VIP and grandstand seating.

More information about the event, visit the National Gallop website.