Óbuda royal Castle

Óbuda is a large castle complex on Castle Hill in Buda with buildings from different time periods. Inside there are several courtyards, halls, and different architectural styles that show how the structure was expanded and rebuilt over centuries.

Hungarian King Béla IV had the first castle built between 1247 and 1265 as part of the country's defense. The structure was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times afterward, especially after wars and attacks.

The castle now houses the Hungarian National Gallery, where you can see Hungarian artworks spanning different periods. Visitors encounter paintings and sculptures that show how the country's artistic expression evolved over centuries.

Castle Hill can be reached on foot or by using the funicular from Chain Bridge, plus buses that go directly to the complex. It helps to wear comfortable shoes since the paths inside the castle grounds are uneven and there are stairs.

Beneath the castle foundations runs a network of natural caves and passages that served as shelters during World War II. These underground spaces remain preserved and offer insight into the survival conditions of that era.