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Margaret Island Musical Fountain – Budapest
The Musical Fountain on Margaret Island in Budapest has been one of the island’s most beautiful and fascinating attractions since 1962. Located on the southern part of the island, near Margaret Bridge, the fountain originally entertained passersby with live music, later switching to an electronic musical accompaniment.
In 2013, the fountain underwent a significant technical and structural renovation, making it Hungary’s largest musical fountain and a standout even by European standards. With a diameter of 36 meters, the fountain boasts a water surface of over 1,000 square meters and contains 400 cubic meters of water. Of its 154 built-in jets, the central one shoots water up to a height of 25 meters. The water displays are illuminated by 227 colorful lights.
The musical fountain entertains visitors with its water and light shows, as well as a continuously refreshed musical repertoire, from May 1 to October 31 each year, operating from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The program features a musical block every hour, including classical pieces, pop and rock hits, as well as children’s songs.
Margaret Island Wildlife Park
In the heart of Budapest’s Margaret Island, spanning approximately 5,200 m², lies a small wildlife park. It is home to native Hungarian species, including aquatic and predatory birds, deer, rabbits, and ponies.
The wildlife park is divided into two sections: one side features the enclosure for fallow deer, where visitors can also spot wild rabbits, while the other side houses aquatic birds and various other bird species. This setup recalls the island’s historical state, once known as “Rabbit Island.”
The park also includes a stable for ponies, which visitors can ride. Opened in the 1950s, the wildlife park has been part of the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden since 2002.
The park is divided into two sections:
- One area features an enclosure for fallow deer and wild rabbits.
- The other is home to aquatic birds and other bird species, evoking the historical landscape of Margaret Island, once known as “Rabbit Island.”
A stable within the park serves as the home for ponies, which visitors—especially children—can ride.
Established in the 1950s, the wildlife park became part of the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden in 2002. It remains a delightful, educational experience for families and nature enthusiasts.
Admission is free, making it a wonderful spot for families and nature lovers to explore.
Key Attractions:
- Parks and Green Spaces:
- Gardens: The island features beautifully landscaped gardens, including the Rose Garden (Rózsakert) and the Japanese Garden, which are perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.
- Cycling and Walking Paths: There are dedicated paths for walking and cycling, providing a scenic route around the island.
- Margaret Island Water Tower:
- Design: An iconic structure with a unique, historical design. The tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Danube River.
- Function: Originally built in 1911 as a water reservoir, it has been converted into a viewing platform.
- Musical Fountain:
- Location: Located near the island’s entrance.
- Features: The fountain offers a musical light show in the evening, where the water jets are synchronized with music.
- Swimming Pools and Spa:
- Palatinus Strand: A large outdoor swimming complex on the island featuring thermal baths, wave pools, and various water slides.
- Medical and Wellness Services: The island also offers spa and wellness facilities for relaxation and health treatments.
- Ruins and Historical Sites:
- Dominican Convent: The ruins of a medieval Dominican convent are located on the island, adding a historical touch to the island’s landscape.
- St. Margaret’s Ruins: These are remnants of a medieval church dedicated to St. Margaret.
- Sports Facilities:
- Tennis Courts: There are several tennis courts available for public use.
- Running Tracks: Designated running tracks for fitness enthusiasts.
- Animal and Nature:
- Deer Park: The island is home to a small deer park where you can see deer and other wildlife.
- Flora and Fauna: The diverse plant life and the peaceful environment make it a haven for nature lovers.
Visiting Information:
- Opening Hours: The island is open year-round. Specific attractions such as the Palatinus Strand have seasonal hours, typically from May to September.
- Transportation: Accessible by public transport, including trams and buses, with several stops located near the island entrances. It’s also reachable by bike or on foot via the nearby bridges.
Tips for Visitors:
- Picnicking: Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many green areas or gardens.
- Cycling: Renting a bike can be a great way to explore the island efficiently.
- Seasonal Activities: Check for seasonal events or activities, such as concerts or festivals, which are often held on the island.
Margaret Island is a serene and multifaceted destination, offering a mix of nature, recreation, and relaxation, making it a popular retreat for both locals and visitors.
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