Why is Elvis Presley Honored in Budapest If He Never Visited?
Elvis Presley Leaves a Lasting Mark on Budapest
Despite never visiting Hungary, Elvis Presley has left a lasting mark on Budapest, earning a public square in his name and inspiring a dedicated fan movement in the city. Born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis Presley became a legendary American singer, known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” and one of the most influential figures in rock music from the mid-1950s until his death.
In Hungary, Elvis Presley’s name is closely tied to Budapest. In 2011, the city’s leadership awarded him honorary citizenship posthumously and named a public square after him near the Buda side of Margaret Bridge. Despite never setting foot in Hungary, Presley’s connection to the country can be traced back to the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.
During his third and final appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show in January 1957, Elvis Presley performed the gospel song “Peace in the Valley” as a tribute to the Hungarian people. Host Ed Sullivan urged viewers to donate in support of Hungarian refugees, leading to a significant outpouring of aid.
While the connection between Elvis Presley and the 1956 Hungarian Revolution remains debated, Budapest’s municipal government decided to honor Presley’s sympathy and support for the revolution by granting him honorary citizenship and naming a public square after him. City officials also anticipated the popularity of the street sign amongst fans, leading to it being frequently stolen as a souvenir.
In Budapest’s Elvis Presley Park, the Hungarian Elvis Club has been working on a project to erect a statue in his honor. The club initiated a donation campaign to fund the project, with donations varying in size. Priscilla Presley, Elvis’ former wife, visited Budapest in 2018 and expressed her support for the project, hoping that the statue would be successfully installed.
Despite facing challenges in realizing the statue, the Hungarian Elvis Club remains committed to the project and continues to raise funds and secure necessary permits for its completion. The club also organizes events and commemorations at Elvis Presley Park, keeping the singer’s memory alive and promoting his legacy in Hungary. Elvis Presley may have never visited Hungary, but his impact on Budapest and its residents is undeniable.
