This is the premier destination for history buffs to learn about Hungary's rich and varied past.
The Hungarian National Museum (Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum) is a good place to come early in your visit to Budapest, as it gives you a real historical context for the city's many monuments and fine architecture. This striking Neoclassical building was purpose-built in the mid 19th century, finished in 1847, and been home to the museum ever since.
The influence of many different cultures over time, along with changes in Hungary's political and cultural climate, are the focus of the museum. Arranged in seven permanent exhibitions, the museum is divided into two major sections: “On the East-West Frontier” situated on the ground floor, with the nation's history from A.D. 804 to the present day explored one storey up.
There is a fantastic collection of ancient Roman stone inscriptions and carvings contained in the first two galleries, while the progress of the area's natives is followed from the Palaeolithic period all the way through the Copper, Bronze and Iron Ages.
Árpád's conquest and the foundation of modern Hungary in 895 was followed by the rule of his descendants, and then a sustained period of Ottoman rule. The former period saw the creation of a Byzantine crown containing a number of plaques depicting Constantine IX Monomachus and the Empress Zoe – this is one of the most significant exhibits held in the museum.
Another exhibit not to be missed is the opulent Coronation Mantle and the crown jewels of the Hungarian kings. The mantle is a cloak made of green and purple silk, and delicately embroidered with an incredible 2.2 kilogrammes of gold thread – thankfully it was only for ceremonial use! The piece is almost one thousand years old, and is thus preserved with the utmost care.
Twentieth-century political history is traced in the seventh exhibit, including the German invasion in World War II and the Soviet oppression of the post-war years, while another exhibition explores scientific and educational advancements made by Hungarians in the twentieth century.
The Hungarian National Museum is found across the Danube from the Citadella. It is near the Astoria and Kálvin tér subway stations. The museum is open daily, except for Mondays, and there is an entry charge.
