Metropolitan Penitentiary Institute, Correctional facility in Budapest District II, Hungary.
The Metropolitan Penitentiary Institute consists of three connected buildings, with the main structure on Gyorskocsí Street showcasing Art Deco elements and a striking street-facing facade. Today it houses multiple state agencies, including prosecutor's offices and court-related bodies.
Construction began in 1913 and concluded in 1922, with Italian prisoners of war assisting in the building work during World War I. This international participation shaped the facility during its critical formation period between the two world wars.
The entrance displays sculptures representing law and justice, while memorial plaques honor historical figures like Imre Nagy. These artworks convey the institution's role in Hungary's legal system to anyone walking past.
The complex is located in Budapest District II and is easily accessible by public transport, as the area is well connected to the city's transit network. The building's facade is its most visible feature from the street, allowing visitors to appreciate its Art Deco design without interior access.
The building preserves its original 1922 structure while modern security systems have been seamlessly integrated into the historic architecture without being visually obvious. This careful balance between heritage and function is subtle but worth noticing during a visit.
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