Stunning Renewed Budapest Citadel Revealed – PHOTOS
The Budapest Citadel is undergoing a major transformation and is set to be a mesmerizing sight by the year 2026. The revitalized site will feature a new public park, a cross symbolizing Hungary’s Christian statehood, the country’s largest national flag, new stairways, and exhibitions honoring Hungary’s struggles for freedom.
The National Haussmann Programme’s official Facebook page revealed that the Citadel had been deteriorating for many years, despite being a UNESCO World Heritage site. An in-depth survey was conducted, followed by the restoration of the exterior and interior of the fortress. Plans are also in place to expand the green spaces within the Citadel, creating a new public park in Budapest.
One of the most notable developments is the opening of the Northern and Southern walls, along with the installation of Hungary’s largest flag atop the Citadel. Additionally, a grand stairway has been constructed behind the Liberty Statue, providing visitors access to the park.
Scheduled for completion in 2026, the restored cannon tower will host an exhibition titled “Bastion of Freedom,” highlighting Hungary’s historic struggles for independence. A team of historians, museum educators, and scriptwriters have collaborated on developing the exhibition.
Restoration work on the statues at the Budapest Citadel has also commenced, with scaffolding erected to address stone defects and weather erosion. A cross will be placed on the pedestal, replacing the previous Soviet soldier statue, symbolizing Hungary’s Christian heritage and its place within European culture.
The Budapest Citadel, situated on Gellért Hill, not only offers a breathtaking view of the city but also serves as a reminder of past oppressions. Originally built to intimidate the Hungarian capital, the Citadel’s cannons were never utilized by the Habsburgs. The Liberty Statue, erected in 1947, has since become one of Budapest’s iconic symbols.
The ongoing reconstruction of the Budapest Citadel will not only transform the site into a mesmerizing landscape but also serve as a tribute to Hungary’s rich history and struggles for freedom.
