Heroes' Square

Heroes' Square (Hősök Tere) is one of the most popular public spaces in Budapest, and was at the heart of the 1896 commemorations of 1,000 years of the nation's history. The Millennium Monument is the centrepiece of the square. The archangel Gabriel surveys goings-on in the plaza below him from his perch at the top of this dazzling 36-metre white column. While it was designed by Albert Schickedanz for the celebrations at the end of the 19th century, in fact it didn't see completion until much later, in 1929. A couple of years later, the square would be renamed, and take on its current moniker.

There are numerous other sculptures arrayed around the square, many of them symbolising different virtues and experiences of the people: from knowledge and glory to war and peace. The conquering of the Carpathians by the Hungarians in 895, which is remembered as the foundation of modern Hungary, is memorialised with a statue of its leader, Árpád, with seven of his Magyar lieutenants arranged around its base.

During the years of Communist control, the square was often used for large public events. More recently, the remains of Imre Nagy, the leader of the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 against Soviet control, were moved here in 1989.

It is recommended to come early to avoid the crowds, as the square can get very busy during the day. Take about one hour to enjoy the monuments on the square, but make sure to leave plenty of time to visit the museums, galleries, and the adjoining City Park. The Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum) and the Hall of Art are two cultural highlights here. Enter the park and explore the famous baths, Budapest Zoo and Vajdahunyad Castle (Vajdahunyad Vára).

Heroes' Square is in Pest at the end of Andrássy Avenue. It can be easily reached by subway, bus, tram or a 45-minute walk along the avenue from the Danube. There is no fee to enter Heroes' Square or City Park.