Restoration Begins on Heroes Square’s Iconic Archangel Gabriel Statue
The iconic Archangel Gabriel statue atop the Millennium Monument in Heroes’ Square, Budapest, is undergoing a full restoration for the first time in over 120 years. The nearly five-meter-tall bronze statue, mounted on a 36-meter Corinthian column, has experienced significant deterioration over the decades, leading to a comprehensive restoration effort led by Városliget Plc.
The restoration process will involve constructing extensive scaffolding around the column to safely lower and transport the statue to a restoration workshop. Depending on its internal condition, the restoration is expected to take 6-12 months to complete. The restoration, commissioned by the National Heritage Institute after a detailed survey, aims to return the statue to its original state.
The Archangel Gabriel statue, created by sculptor György Zala and unveiled in 1901, is a symbol of Hungary and a popular tourist attraction. Despite previous restorations, the statue’s deterioration required a more extensive restoration plan, which includes reinforcing both the bronze statue and its supporting column.
Scheduled to begin on July 22, 2024, the restoration work will involve 3D scanning and meticulous documentation of the monument for the most detailed survey of its condition to date. The sculpture will be dismantled into pieces and removed by a heavy-duty crane truck for transportation to the restoration site.
The restored Archangel Gabriel statue is expected to be reinstalled in Heroes’ Square by the first half of 2025, preserving this iconic symbol of Hungarian heritage for future generations to admire and appreciate.
