Behind the Scenes in Budapest: A Cultural Guide to the Hungarian Capital

Words: Lucy Connors

Photography: Adrian Botica

Budapest is currently basking in the limelight, attracting tourists with its well-documented charms. But there’s more to this city than meets the eye. A deeper dive into its history reveals the city as a vibrant hub for writers, artists, and musicians. With over forty theatres and more than a hundred museums, the city offers a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic heritage.

Budapest’s Architectural Wonders: From Belle Époque to Art Nouveau

The architectural history of the Hungarian capital is a testament to its cultural complexity. The cityscape features Neoclassical gems and Gothic Revival structures, with Art Nouveau influences adding vibrant colours and creating a unique style known as Secession.

Unlike modern metropolises dominated by skyscrapers, Budapest’s intricate facades stand as flamboyant tributes to its storied past. A prime example is the newly renovated Párisi Passage, now an opulent hotel and restaurant, restored to its Belle Epoque splendour.

Coffee, Culture, and Creativity: The Literary Legacy of Budapest

Artistic influences permeate every corner. The city’s thousand-year history has been a magnet for patrons of art and literature. This legacy is vividly alive in Budapest’s coffee houses.

The ‘Coffee House Cult,’ which emerged in the 1800s, has endured, turning cafes into epicenters of artistic, cultural, and political life. Central Café, a significant intellectual hub for writers of A Het and Nyugat literary journals, still operates today, offering visitors a taste of its historic ambience and delectable pastries.

To delve deeper into the literary spirit of Budapest, visit the Petőfi Literary Museum. Named after Hungary’s national poet, the museum celebrates Hungarian authors with exhibits and events that blend the contemporary with the classic. Petőfi’s influence, alongside that of the wider literary community, is palpable throughout the city.

Sounds of the City: Classical and Folk Music in Budapest

Music, another pillar of Budapest’s cultural heritage, is best showcased magnificently at  The Palace of  Arts: MUPA Budapest. This musical citadel operates a concert hall, museum, and festival venue, blending new artistic directions with traditional homage.

Alternatively, the classical music scene, epitomised by the Liszt Academy of Music, celebrates the legacy of native composer Franz Liszt. The recently refurbished Art Nouveau concert hall hosts vibrant performances, reflecting the city’s deep musical roots.

Folk music, characterised by lively rhythms, colourful costumes, and expressive dances, remains a central influence on Hungarian culture. This genre is celebrated citywide, especially during the festival at the Castle in August.

Beneath the Surface: Mysteries and Legends of the Castle District

For a contrasting experience, explore the Labyrinth beneath the Castle, a network of caves and caverns rumoured to have imprisoned Count Dracula, adding a layer of dark intrigue to the city’s storytelling traditions.

Budapest on the Big Screen: A Cinematic Journey Through the City

Budapest’s cinematic culture is equally rich. The Művész Cinema is a haven for cinephiles, screening international and vintage films as well as hosting film festivals. This retro venue embraces art cinema, allowing visitors to experience movies in their original languages with subtitles.

Budapest’s unique architecture and iconic locations have also made it a favoured shooting location for filmmakers. László Nemes’s “Son of Saul,” which won both Academy and Golden Globe Awards for Best Foreign Language Film in 2015, is a testament to the city’s thriving film scene.

The culture of Budapest flows through its buildings, museums, and the people that inhabit them. Any journey through the city is a cultural odyssey, providing a deeper understanding of how Budapest’s stunning appearance and unique atmosphere came to be.

From its architectural marvels and literary cafes to its concert halls and cinemas, it is a city where history and modernity coalesce in a symphony of art and culture.