Vorosmarty Square (Vörösmarty ter) Budapest
History of Vorosmarty Square
Vorosmarty Square has a rich history that spans several centuries. The square was originally known by several names, including the Theatre Square and the Area of Gisela, in honor of Archduchess Gisela of Austria. However, in 1926, the square was renamed in honor of Mihaly Vorosmarty, a Hungarian poet and writer.
The centerpiece of the square is a monument of Carrara marble dedicated to Vorosmarty. The monument, which was created by Telc Edward and Edward Callosa, depicts Vorosmarty seated and surrounded by people.
The square has undergone several renovations over the years, with the most recent renovation taking place in 2008. Today, Vorosmarty Square is a bustling hub of activity, with shops, cafes, and restaurants lining its streets.
Attractions in Vorosmarty Square
Vorosmarty Square is home to several attractions that are worth visiting. One of the most famous attractions is the Lion Fountain, also known as the Fountain of Leon. Built in 1985, the fountain is located on the site of a well and is decorated with stone statues of four lions and an iron lamppost.
Another popular attraction in Vorosmarty Square is the Gerbeaud House, which was built in 1858-1862. The building, which is in the Art Nouveau style, is home to the famous Cafe Gerbeaud, one of the biggest and best-known coffeehouses in Europe. The cafe’s interior is luxurious, with chandeliers, precious wood walls, and furniture that has maintained the style and spirit of the grunderzeit.
Getting to Vorosmarty Square
Vorosmarty Square is easily accessible by public transportation. The M1 Millennium Underground, also known as the yellow line, has a station at Vorosmarty ter. The square is also accessible via the M2, M3, and M1 lines at Deak Ferenc ter station. Tram 2 stops at Vigado ter on the Danube Promenade, and the square is just a 3-minute walk away.
Restaurants and Cafes
Vorosmarty Square is home to several restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of cuisines. One of the most famous restaurants in the square is Onyx, which has earned Hungary’s second Michelin star after Costes in 2011. Onyx is located inside the Gerbeaud House and offers gourmet meals in an imposing dining room.
Another popular restaurant in Vorosmarty Square is the Hard Rock Cafe, which opened in 2011 in the Vaci1 Shopping Centre. The cafe serves fantastic food, drinks, and music, and is a great place to hang out with friends.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Szamos Gourmet Palace is a must-visit. The cafe, cake shop, and chocolate manufacturer offer various handmade bonbons, coffee drinks, cakes, and ice cream in a beautifully decorated setting.
Events and Festivals
Vorosmarty Square is the site of several events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Christmas fair, which starts in mid-November each year. The fair features local food and craft products, winter drinks, and concerts.
Another popular event is the Festive Book Week in June, where book lovers can browse among the stalls of various publishers.
The square is also a gathering place to welcome the New Year in Budapest, with people flocking here with champagne in hand to count down until midnight on December 31st.
Nearby Attractions
Vorosmarty Square is located near several other popular attractions in Budapest. One of the most famous is the pedestrian shopping street Vaci Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The street is a great place to walk around and soak up the atmosphere of the city.
Other nearby attractions include Budapest Basilica, which is just a short walk away, and Andrássy Avenue, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Heroes’ Square is also nearby and is home to several museums and monuments.
