Esztergom

Esztergom, once the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary and the royal seat of the country, is a city of great historical importance. It was here that the first Hungarian king, Saint Stephen, was crowned in the year 1000, marking the birth of the Hungarian state. This glorious period lasted until the invasion of the Tatars in 1241.

The castle of Esztergom, majestically situated on a hill above the city on the banks of the Danube, regularly provided rest and recreation for crusaders and their troops in the Middle Ages. Prominent figures such as the German Emperor Conrad III and Louis VII, the King of France, in 1147, as well as the German Emperor Frederick I (Barbarossa) in 1189, stayed here.

Today, most of the remains of medieval buildings are exhibited in the Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum in Esztergom. Another prominent visitor to the city was the Austrian Emperor and Hungarian King Franz Joseph, who visited Esztergom when the imposing basilica was consecrated on August 31, 1856.

During your visit to Esztergom, be sure to visit the Cathedral Treasury and the Christian Museum. The Treasury houses the richest collection of liturgical art treasures in Hungary, while the Christian Museum is the third most important gallery in the country. Here you can gain valuable insights into the history and culture of the region.

Explore the Castle Hill, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube, Maria Valeria Bridge, the Water City and St. Thomas Hill. Visit the uncovered Royal Castle and the impressive Basilica of Esztergom, considered the tallest building in the country. The basilica impresses with its hemispherical dome, massive walls and impressive columns. From the observation deck of the dome you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view.

Also enjoy a walk along the chestnut tree-lined Little Danube Promenade (Kis Duna sétány), ideal for romantic strolls. Cross the Maria Valeria Bridge and explore Prímás Island, a green oasis between the Small and Great Danube.

If you like hiking, trips to the lookout tower on Kis Strázsa Hill east of Esztergom Garden City or to Sátorkőpuszta Cave on Nagy Strázsa Hill are recommended. From these vantage points you can admire the impressive Gerecse and Börzsöny Mountains, the meandering river of the Danube and the silhouette of the Basilica.

Esztergom awaits you with a wealth of historical treasures, cultural highlights and breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of this charming city on the Danube.

Information board at the basilica:
Esztergom 2500, Szent István tér 3

Tourist Info:
+36 30 710 5015
esztergom@tourinform.hu
https://visitesztergom.hu