The Basilica of St. Stephen is one of Budapest’s most iconic buildings. It is currently regarded as the largest church in the capital, showcasing significant architectural and cultural richness.
This 96-meter-tall religious temple is one of the city’s most important points of interest.
For any traveler, the Cathedral of St. Stephen is an essential destination and a magnetic tourist attraction in the beautiful Hungarian capital.
Join us to explore the history of this religious site and discover with us the most symbolic elements of its neoclassical architecture.
History of the Basilica of St. Stephen in Budapest
The construction of the Church of St. Stephen in Budapest began in 1851, initially following a classical architectural style.
However, a little more than half a century later, the project was completed with a fully neoclassical appearance.
During its construction, several setbacks caused delays in its inauguration.
The most notable were:
- The death of its architects
- The collapse of the central dome in 1868
The Basilica of Budapest honors Hungary’s first king. Additionally, the right hand of this monarch is preserved in the cathedral.
The church’s construction came about after much of Pest was flooded by the waters of the Danube.
During the river’s overflow in 1838, citizens climbed to a hill in the area to save their lives.
After the natural disaster, many locals were left homeless. However, donations poured in to support the construction of a Catholic temple in gratitude to God.
In 1931, Pope Pius XI granted it the title of “Basilica Minor” due to its size.
What to See in Budapest’s Cathedral?
Visiting the Basilica of St. Stephen is an incredible experience for anyone exploring Budapest.
The main facade faces the Danube’s surroundings. At 55 meters wide, with two immense towers, this Catholic temple commands the visitor’s attention.
Inside, the Cathedral is richly decorated. Marbles, paintings, reliefs, and sculptures are among the historical and artistic elements to be admired.
This masterpiece by architect Miklós Ybl also boasts perfect acoustics, ideal for experiencing sublime organ concerts.
Architecture of the Building
The architecture of the Church of St. Stephen in Budapest is composed entirely of neoclassical elements.
It is also the largest religious building in the country, with a capacity to accommodate over 8,500 people.
The cathedral itself rises on a three-tier foundation nearly the size of the church itself.
Its impressive facade is adorned with two elegant twin towers that serve as bell towers, topped by a central dome standing just under 100 meters tall.
The window details and reliefs lend the structure a style heavily inspired by Greco-Roman antiquity, making it one of Budapest’s most beautiful neoclassical buildings.
Additionally, the cathedral is designed in a Greek cross layout.
It houses a total of six bells, distributed between its two towers. The north tower contains five bells, while the south tower holds only one, which is curiously the largest bell in Hungary.
Holy Right Hand
This chapel displays the mummified right hand of King Stephen I, a ruler remembered for his justice and piety.
You can visit the Holy Right Hand chapel for an additional 1 euro during your tour of the cathedral.
The Holy Right Hand relic has long been a historical symbol for Hungarians. It is also a tribute to a monarch who was far more than just another ruler in the dynasty.
During the Middle Ages, the relic was revered by hundreds of thousands of worshipers and has also been a focal point in significant Catholic pilgrimages within Hungary.
The Holy Right Hand Chapel, where the relic is kept, was consecrated in 1987 by Cardinal László Paskai.
However, since 1989, a procession led by the right hand of King St. Stephen is held every August 20. This event undoubtedly strengthens Budapest’s cultural heritage.
Dome and Tower
Another must-see feature of this beautiful cathedral is the dome.
To reach the topmost window of the dome, you can take the elevator or climb a spiral staircase of approximately 364 steps.
However, the reward is quite satisfying, as from there you get a 360º panoramic view of Budapest. It’s an impressive view you won’t want to miss and one well worth photographing.
Treasury
The treasury is located on the cathedral’s second floor.
It is undoubtedly another area you should not miss if you visit the Basilica of St. Stephen.
In this space, you can admire valuable objects belonging to various cardinals. The exhibition also includes censers, chalices, ciboria, and vestments.
Much of the treasury is dedicated to Cardinal József Mindszenty, who was persecuted by the Hungarian communist state for denouncing abuses against civilians and clergy. Garments, masks, and devotional items are some of the objects on display in the Treasury Room at the Budapest Cathedral.
Remains of Puskás
Ferenc Puskás, the legendary Hungarian footballer who played for Real Madrid during his prime, is buried in the Basilica of St. Stephen in Budapest. His grave attracts thousands of fans who honor the legendary Spanish-Hungarian footballer and coach by lighting candles in remembrance.
Similarly, the remains of Sándor Kocsis and Gyula Grosics, football companions of Puskás, also rest in the peace of this Christian temple.
The Size of the Bell
Hungary’s largest bell is located in St. Stephen’s Church in Budapest.
This immense bell, weighing approximately 9 tons, is housed in the basilica’s right tower and is only rung twice a year: on August 20, when the church was consecrated, and on December 31, to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
Attend a Concert
Another unique way to experience the basilica is by attending an electric organ concert held every Thursday. Lasting about an hour, it’s a true delight, allowing you to enjoy the music as well as the basilica’s interior.
Please note that these concerts are popular and often reach capacity, so it’s best to reserve in advance via this link.
Entry to the Basilica of St. Stephen – Prices and Hours
Admission to the Church of St. Stephen in Budapest is free.
However:
- A donation of 200 Ft is suggested.
- Access to the dome costs 500 Ft.
- Entry to the treasury room is 400 Ft.
If you plan to visit the Budapest Cathedral, we recommend doing so in summer to access the dome and enjoy a beautiful view of Budapest.
The Cathedral of St. Stephen is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On Saturdays, it’s open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. For the treasury room, visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
During July, August, and September, the treasury room extends its visiting hours until 6:00 PM.
You can tour the basilica on your own, or you can book a guided tour, which is highly recommended for a more in-depth experience of this landmark. Here are some options:
- Guided tour of St. Stephen’s Basilica
- Tickets for the organ concert at the Basilica
- Classical music concerts at St. Stephen’s Basilica
Exploring the Budapest Cathedral can take about 40 minutes if you choose to climb up to the dome.
How to Get to St. Stephen’s Church?
You can find it marked on the Budapest tourist map:
The city offers various transportation options that make it easy to reach this central location.
The church is in the heart of Budapest, at Szt. István tér, V.
Public transport options include:
- By Metro: Take Line M1 (yellow) and stop at Bajcsy Zsilinszky út. Alternatively, you can take Line M3 (blue) and get off at Arany János utca.
- By Bus: Hercegprímás utca, Lines 15 and 115.