The Buda Castle hides a unique attraction: the newly renovated Saint Stephen’s Hall, restored to its former glory by the country’s finest craftsmen based on the original plans of Alajos Hauszmann. Those who purchase a ticket for the exhibition can not only admire the hall, which shines in noble colors, but also gain insight into the life of King Saint Stephen.
Program Discounts
If you book accommodation with us while logged in, we will give you a discount coupon for the Saint Stephen’s Hall program!
50% Program Discount On the full price of adult tickets on the Saint Stephen’s Hall website… +91 additional program coupons for Budapest and surrounding areas!
Visitor Information
The exhibition is only available during predetermined time slots due to limited room capacity. Tickets can be purchased in person at the ticket counter, but booking online is more convenient and faster.
You can explore the treasures of the hall individually (with a tablet) or in a group (with a guided tour). Maximum time allowed inside: 1 hour.
History of Saint Stephen’s Hall
No doubt, it needed a facelift
As soon as Franz Joseph ascended the throne, the renovation of the Buda Castle gained new momentum. It was time for embellishment, for luxurious interior spaces worthy of a European ruler. The task initially fell to Miklós Ybl, and after his death, Alajos Hauszmann took over the baton.
Saint Stephen’s Hall was located in the southern connecting wing of the palace. Its breathtaking beauty not only praised Hauszmann’s imagination but also celebrated the industrial artists of the time.
Artistic Details
Ignác Roskovics contributed oil paintings to the decoration, honoring the memory of the Árpád dynasty kings. The meticulously carved wooden works in the hall were created by Endre Thék, and of course, one of the celebrated artists of the time, Vilmos Zsolnay, also contributed. In addition to the ceramic images, we owe the country’s most beautiful fireplace to him.
Success at the World Expo
Emperor Franz Joseph was so impressed by the decor of Saint Stephen’s Hall that he showcased the masterpiece at the 1900 Paris World Exposition. The audience marveled at the Hungarian pavilion, and the jury awarded the work of Hungarian artisans with a Grand Prix.
The destruction caused by World War II also spared the Buda Castle district, and the furnishings of Saint Stephen’s Hall were destroyed by bombing and weeks of fire. The hall was not restored until the present day.
Exhibition
Whatever type of guided tour you choose, you will learn a lot about the building’s history, the life of Saint Stephen, and his royal activities. The digital tour has the advantage of interactive tasks, adding spice to the exploration. In addition to the historical room, a faithful replica of the Holy Crown is also on display, as well as a contemporary art installation by Samuel Havadtőy.
Free Admission
On the last Saturday of every month, individuals under 26 years of age and up to two accompanying close relatives of those under 18 can visit the Saint Stephen’s Hall for free. On Hungary’s national holidays (March 15, August 20, October 23), the exhibition is free for everyone.
How to Get There
Saint Stephen’s Hall is located on the first floor of the southern connecting wing that links the E and F buildings of the palace. If you approach from Szent György Square and Hunyadi Courtyard, you can easily enter through the Lion Courtyard. If you’re coming from the Palota Street side, use the lift located in the National Széchényi Library building.
1014 Budapest, Szent György Square 2 (Hungary)
info@szentistvanterem.hu
Opening Hours
Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Discounts and Prices
Program coupon for logged-in bookers
Year-round
-50% On the full adult ticket price when purchasing on the Saint Stephen’s Hall website, while supplies last.
Prices
Year-round
Adult ticket (guided tour): 4,400 HUF
Adult ticket (tablet): 3,900 HUF
Child, student, senior ticket (tablet): 1,950 HUF
Child, student, senior ticket (guided tour): 2,200 HUF
Location Features
General
Advance booking: Recommended
Accessible
ATM nearby: 900 m
Languages spoken: Hungarian, English
Pet-friendly
On-site Services
Restroom
Bicycle storage
Dining options: nearby
Guided tours/audio guide
Child-friendly services
Interactive puzzles
Payment Options
Credit cards: MasterCard, VISA, Maestro
SZÉP card: OTP, MBH, MKB, K&H
Parking
Paid parking nearby: On-street
Price: 600 HUF/hour
Access
Distance from the train station: 1.5 km
Distance from the bus stop: 100 m
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