10 Things to Do in St. Stephen's Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) Budapest Hungary
As one of the most iconic landmarks of Budapest, St. Stephen's Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. Located in the heart of the city, this stunning Neo-Classical building offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to admire the stunning architecture, take part in a religious ceremony, or simply explore the city’s history, St. Stephen’s Basilica is a great place to start. Here are 10 things to do in St. Stephen’s Basilica.
1. Admire the Architecture: St. Stephen’s Basilica is a stunning example of Neo-Classical architecture. The building has a large dome flanked by two bell towers, and is adorned with intricate sculptures and beautiful stained glass windows. Take your time to admire the details of the building’s exterior and interior, and make sure to take some photos of the stunning architecture.
2. Attend a Religious Service: St. Stephen’s Basilica is a functioning Catholic church and regularly holds religious services. If you’re interested in attending a service, check the church’s website for times and dates.
3. Explore the Crypt: Underneath the main church building is a crypt where the remains of Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen, are buried. The crypt is open to visitors and is a great place to learn more about the history of Hungary and the church.
4. Visit the Treasury: The treasury of St. Stephen’s Basilica is home to a number of religious artifacts and works of art. From intricately carved wooden statues to ornate jewelry, the treasury is a great place to admire the church’s collection of art and artifacts.
5. Take a Tour: St. Stephen’s Basilica offers guided tours of the building and its grounds. The tours are a great way to learn more about the history of the church and the city.
6. Climb the Dome: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb to the top of the dome for a spectacular view of the city. The climb is a bit of a workout but the view from the top is worth it.
7. Listen to a Concert: St. Stephen’s Basilica is home to a number of concerts throughout the year. From classical music to gospel choirs, there’s something for everyone.
8. Visit the Gift Shop: The gift shop at St. Stephen’s Basilica is a great place to pick up souvenirs and religious items. From books to jewelry, there’s something for everyone.
9. Enjoy the View: St. Stephen’s Basilica is located in the heart of Budapest, so the views of the city from the church are spectacular. Make sure to take some time to admire the view from the church’s steps.
10. Take Part in a Pilgrimage: St. Stephen’s Basilica is a popular destination for pilgrims from all over the world. If you’re interested in taking part in a pilgrimage, check the church’s website for more information.
No matter what you’re looking for, St. Stephen’s Basilica has something for everyone. From admiring the architecture to taking part in a religious service, there’s plenty to do at this iconic landmark. Make sure to add St. Stephen’s Basilica to your list of must-see sights in Budapest!