Budapest History Museum

Since the unification of Budapest in 1873, historic artifacts relating to Hungary’s capital have been collected. Many are now on show at the Budapest History Museum (also called the Castle Museum). During the rebuilding that followed the destruction suffered in World War II, chambers dating from the Middle Ages were uncovered in the south wing (wing E) of the Royal Palace. They provide an insight into the character of a much earlier castle within today’s Habsburg reconstruction. These chambers, including a tiny prison cell and a chapel, were recreated in the basement of the palace. They now house an exhibition, the Royal Palace in Medieval Buda, which displays authentic weapons, seals, tiles and other early artifacts. On the ground floor, Budapest in the Middle Ages illustrates the evolution of the town from its Roman origins to a 13th-century Hungarian settlement. The reconstructed defensive walls, gardens and keep on this level are further attractions. Also on this floor are the Gothic Statues from the Royal Palace, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries. These were uncovered by chance in the major excavations of 1974. On the first floor, Budapest in Modern Times traces the history of the city from 1686 to the present.