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Hungarian Parliament History: Timeline, Key Events, & Present Status

Discover the fascinating tales behind the stunning Hungarian Parliament, steeped in centuries of political significance and cultural heritage. Built in the late 19th century, the building houses the National Assembly of Hungary and has survived floods, bombings, and even political upheaval in the 20th century - a symbol of Hungary's resilience and strength, indeed.

Keep reading to know all about the Hungarian Parliament history and what makes it a must-visit landmark in Budapest!

Hungarian Parliament timeline

  • 1867: Following the Austro-Hungarian Compromise, plans were formed to build a new parliament building.
  • 1873: Budapest was formed out of 3 cities, and the parliament building got its iconic location on the bank of Danube river.
  • 1885: Construction of the Hungarian Parliament began in a neo-Gothic style designed to rival London’s Parliament.
  • 1896: The almost finished Parliament was inaugurated on Hungary’s 1000th birthday.
  • 1902: The lead architect, Imre Steindl, sadly went blind and eventually died in 1902 before the building was completed.
  • 1904: The Hungarian Parliament building was finally completed after 20 years of craftsmanship.
  • 1918- 1945: The Parliament withstood tumultuous periods, including World War I, the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the turbulence of World War II.
  • 1949: A red star was added to the dome during the communist era – a controversial makeover.
  • 1989: With the fall of communism, the red star was removed from the building, and Hungary embraced democracy.
  • Present: The Budapest Parliament building, with its rich history and stunning architecture, attracts millions of tourists from around the world.

Hungarian Parliament history explained

Birth of an idea

1867

Following the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, Hungary desired a new parliament building in the heart of the country to symbolize Hungary's newfound independence and autonomy within the empire.

Finding a location

1873

Budapest officially united in 1873, and the parliament was awarded a location on the Danube bank, facing the Buda Castle across the river. This symbolic placement highlighted the parliament's role as the heart of the newly unified Hungary.

Construction begins

1885

Construction of the Hungarian Parliament building began in 1885 following a design competition won by architect Imre Steindl, who designed the building in a neo-Gothic style to rival London's Parliament.

A milestone celebration

1896

The (almost) finished Parliament was inaugurated on a grand scale to celebrate Hungary's 1000th anniversary, marking a millennium of Hungarian statehood and showcasing the country's grandeur and cultural heritage to the world.

The building is completed

1904

After nearly 20 years of meticulous craftsmanship by over 1,000 workers, the Hungarian Parliament building was completed and ready to make history! The iconic dome, towering at 96 meters, was finished, becoming a prominent feature of Budapest's skyline.

War and change

1918-1949

The Austro-Hungarian Empire crumbled after WWI, making the Hungarian Parliament the seat of the independent Hungarian government. During WWII, the parliament building suffered significant damage from Allied bombings and was restored in 1945.

Democracy dawns

1989

The Iron Curtain fell, marking the end of Communist rule, and Hungary embraced democracy. Consequently, the Budapest Parliament became a powerful symbol of the nation's regained sovereignty and democratic journey.

A symbol of national pride

Present

Today, the Hungarian Parliament continues to serve as the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary and stands as a symbol of resilience, embodying Hungary's rich history, architectural splendor, and democratic principles.

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Architectural significance of the Hungarian Parliament building

Hungarian Parliament History
  • In the late 19th century, Hungary, newly asserting its autonomy within the Austro-Hungarian Empire, sought a grand Parliament to embody its national pride.
  • After a competition, Hungarian architect Imre Steindl's design, inspired by London's Parliament, was selected. Steindl masterfully blended neo-Gothic elements, with pointed arches and spires reaching towards the sky, with touches of Renaissance and Baroque styles. This fusion reflected Hungary's desire to be seen as a modern European nation while also drawing upon its rich architectural heritage.
  • The building's sheer scale, with 40 million bricks and intricate details, further emphasized Hungary's newfound power and ambition. The construction, lasting nearly two decades, became a national project, a testament to Hungary's emerging identity, and a symbol of its aspirations for the future.
Inside Hungarian Parliament

Though a symbol of national pride, the Parliament hasn't escaped the hands of time. The building underwent a decades-long restoration to address wear and tear. This project, finished around 2002, aimed to restore the Budapest Parliament building's full glory, including rebuilding features simplified after WWII. Currently, plans are underway to renovate the building's interior, ensuring this architectural marvel continues to inspire awe for generations to come.

Hungarian Parliament today

Hungarian Parliament History

Budapest's Hungarian Parliament building isn't just a stunning landmark; it's a living testament to Hungary's rich and enduring history. Its neo-Gothic walls have witnessed multiple triumphs and struggles.

Today, the Parliament houses Hungary's National Assembly, and its intricate details whisper stories of a bygone era. A visit here isn't just about admiring the architecture; it's a chance to step into Hungarian history and culture and gain a deeper appreciation for this vibrant nation. Visiting this awe-inspiring building is a Budapest essential.

Hungarian Parliament building photos

Frequently asked questions about Hungarian Parliament history

​The Hungarian Parliament has witnessed numerous significant events, including the tumultuous years of World War I, the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the interwar period, World War II, and the subsequent communist era followed by Hungary's transition to democracy.