Matthias Church Budapest: Stunning Secrets of Hungary’s Royal Church

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Matthias Church Budapest: Weddings, Coronations, and Timeless Beauty

Perched proudly atop Buda Castle Hill, Matthias Church — originally known as the Church of Mary or Church of Our Lady — is one of Hungary’s most iconic landmarks. This Roman Catholic church is not only famous for its stunning Neo-Gothic style but also for its centuries-long role in crowning kings and hosting grand church events. Overlooking the Danube River from the heart of Buda Castle Budapest, this site has been Buda’s first parish church since medieval times, founded by Hungary’s early kings after the Mongol invaders left Hungary in 1242.

According to historians, a church stood here as early as 1015, likely founded by the first King of Hungary, St. Stephen. It was later rebuilt by King Béla IV as a new church after the Mongol invasion. Over the centuries, the Church of Mary was expanded, whitewashed, and remodeled many times.

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During the Turkish occupation, the church was turned into a mosque until Christian forces reclaimed Buda during the Siege of Buda in 1686, marking a turning point for the entire Buda Hills region. The church takes its modern name from King Matthias Corvinus the Fair, whose expansions and weddings here in the 15th century secured its royal status. The name of the church refers to King Matthias Corvinus, also remembered by his famous raven emblem.

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The Coronation Church

Known as Buda Castle’s coronation church, this sacred space has witnessed the crowning of many kings of Hungary, including Franz Joseph I and Sissi in 1867. The Holy Crown of Hungary, central to the Hungarian coat of arms, was safeguarded within its walls. Today, visitors still see royal relics and learn how the church’s role during the Siege of Buda in 1686 shaped the kingdom.

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Royal Coats of Arms and Symbols

The interior decoration features coats of arms and royal symbols carved into the walls of the church. The famous raven of King Matthias appears alongside the Holy Crown and Hungarian motifs. These symbols remind visitors how this church is not only a Roman Catholic church but a guardian of Hungary’s royal past.

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A Beloved Wedding Venue

Matthias Church — called Matthias Church in Budapest — is still a favorite spot for weddings. The main altar, painted by artists like Bertalan Székely and Károly Lotz, creates a stunning backdrop. Couples often book the south tower side for photos, with the northern tower and southern high tower adding to the fairy-tale feel. Visitors often catch glimpses of church events like concerts and ceremonies.

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Architectural Highlights

Schulek’s 19th-century restoration transformed the building back into a church in Gothic style, replacing earlier Baroque style details added after the Turks. The result is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic style, with colorful Zsolnay tiles covering the roof, stunning stained glass windows, and intricate frescoes. The Matthias bell tower, the tallest south tower, offers panoramic views of the Buda Hills, the Danube, and beyond.

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Concerts in Matthias Church

This Roman Catholic parish church is renowned for its concerts. When visitors enter the church, they can often hear classical music filling the nave. Performances include works by Hungarian composers and European masters, enhanced by the church’s unique acoustics and ecclesiastical setting.

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Visiting Matthias Church in Buda Castle Budapest

Visitors enter through the main portal on Trinity Square, which features the famous Trinity Column. From the front of the church, you can see Buda Castle Budapest, Castle Hill, and the Danube.

Practical Tips:

• Check opening hours — parts may close for church events or weddings.
• Dress modestly to enter the church.
• Climb the south tower for views of Buda Castle Hill and the river.

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Conclusion

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From its early days as Buda’s first parish church to its status today as a beloved wedding venue and concert hall, Matthias Church in Budapest stands as a testament to Hungary’s resilience, faith, and royal legacy. Overlooking the Danube from Castle Hill, this church continues to capture the hearts of visitors who come to admire its Neo-Gothic style, rich interior decoration, and timeless beauty.

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