Last day in Hungary

As our last day was spent sight-seeing, I've decided to show some photos of the interesting things we saw. I've been told that I'll have to do a slide presentation - perhaps at the Hungarian Club - in order to share the rest of the pictures with those interested. I must say that the architecture is MAGNIFICENT. Many of the buildings are in the process of being restored - but even the ones that aren't are amazing in terms of the stonework and sculptures. You can't look at any row of buildings without seeing something amazing.

Hero's Square:


The 7 chieftans with Arpad, the leader in the center.

One of the sculptures on the circular tribute. This one is actually the second from the left in the photo of the square above.

Inside the circular monument are individual statutes of various heroes. This is St. Stephen, the first King of Hungary.

Under each statute is a three-dimensional plaque. This one is St. Stephen's.

Across from Hero's square is a reproduction Transylvanian castle - every detail meticulously copied, down to the moat. It houses the Museum of Agriculture and, again, the architectural highlights are not to be missed.

The chapel inside the castle, complete with full-size statutes over the entrance. Another portion of the castle had this woman and child next to the doorway.

This is a "spa" which is actually a public pool fed by mineral springs and a 'bath' area fed by hot springs. Massage and physical therapy are available and many doctors prescribe such treatments for rheumatism and arthritis.

On many of the main streets, there are special bike lanes designated on the sidewalks. You walk here at your own peril!

The Basillica.

And it's dome. From outside the actual church area, you can walk up to the top of the dome, access the outer walkway and walk around the external structure of the dome. We happened to be there at noon to hear the bells.

This weekend, I will try to figure out a way to put the photos from my other days onto a viewer to make it easier to see them. I will also consider posting the excellent views of the Castle on Castle Hill and the church where all the kings of Hungary have been crowned.

But I leave you with this...the view on the ride up to Castle Hill. This is the famous Budapest "Chain Bridge" with the Basillica in the background.

This weekend, I will try to figure out a way to put the photos from my other days onto a viewer to make it easier to see them. I will also consider posting the excellent views of the Castle on Castle Hill and the church where all the kings of Hungary have been crowned. But I leave you with this: