Hungarian Parliament Architecture | Budapest’s crown jewel

Architecture

The Hungarian Parliament Building is a Neo-Gothic masterpiece on the banks of the Danube in Budapest. Completed in 1904, it’s one of Europe’s largest legislative buildings, with 691 rooms and a grand dome rising. Inspired by London’s Houses of Parliament, it combines pointed arches, elaborate turrets, and Renaissance details in a bold design.

Hungarian Parliament’s architectural history

Origin and evolution

The Hungarian Parliament Building was born from a need to showcase Hungary’s growing independence within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. A design competition in 1880 sparked national pride, and Imre Steindl’s Neo-Gothic vision won. Construction began in 1885 and took nearly two decades, with over 100,000 workers involved. The building officially opened in 1902, though work continued for years.

Built almost entirely with Hungarian materials, it symbolizes unity and national identity. Despite damage in World War II and during the 1956 uprising, it has been carefully restored. Today, it functions as both a working government seat and an enduring symbol of Hungarian resilience.

Read Hungarian Parliament history in depth

Stylistic influences

The Hungarian Parliament’s design mixes several styles to tell a story. Its Gothic towers and arches stand out, but inside, you’ll find grand Baroque-style halls that feel like a royal palace. Look closer, and you’ll spot colorful mosaics and dome decorations inspired by Byzantine art. Even Hungarian folk patterns are built into the details. This blend reflected late 19th-century Hungary’s desire to showcase its sovereignty, history, and place in European tradition through eclectic architecture.

Interior Highlights of the Hungarian Parliament

Crown Jewels on display

At the heart of the building, under the central dome, the Hungarian Crown Jewels—including the Crown of St. Stephen—are displayed. They're guarded day and night and symbolize Hungary’s thousand-year monarchy.

Upper House Chamber

Though no longer in use for legislation, the former Upper House chamber is fully preserved. It has wood-paneled walls, a decorative ceiling, and a golden speaker’s podium.

Holy Staircase

One of several ceremonial staircases, this one was used by the king during visits. It's lined with stained-glass windows and leads directly to the dome area.

Library of Parliament

Tucked inside the building is a working parliamentary library with thousands of books. It has a domed reading room and wooden galleries.

Exterior Highlights of the Hungarian Parliament

Riverside location

The Parliament sits right on the banks of the Danube, offering a dramatic view from across the river and the Chain Bridge. Its long facade runs parallel to the water, emphasizing its size.

Flag and ceremonial square

Kossuth Square, in front of the Parliament, features the Hungarian national flag and hosts official ceremonies. It's a public space where locals gather, with monuments honoring key moments in Hungary’s history.

Central Dome

The massive central dome rises between two symmetrical wings, making it the highest point in Budapest. It's visible from far across the city and marks the building’s central axis.