Beautiful Buda Castle - By: Anna Copeland

When deciding on the best way to see Europe, train holidays are an often overlooked way of exploring the fascinating landmarks and landscapes of the continent. The rich history of the region is exhibited in many of its famous buildings, most of which have well organised museums and exhibitions that allow visitors to learn about the complicated course of events that shaped the people, cities and countries. In eastern and central Europe, the Ottoman, the Habsburg (or Hapsburg) and the Austro-Hungarian Empires all played an incredibly significant role in the shaping of the states. Buda castle in Budapest, Hungary, is one of the best places to explore in this part of Europe. Train holidays often pass through this city, so why not stop off in Budapest and visit the castle?

Buda Castle

A castle was first built on the hill by King Béla IV, between 1247 and 1265. Of what remains today, the oldest section was built by Stephen, Duke of Slavonia in the 14th century. Unfortunately, all that is left of this original structure are the foundations of what is known as ‘Stephen’s Tower’ and three interconnected, barrel-vaulted rooms. Stephen’s Tower was a formidably large structure with a distinctive turreted spire. The tower was destroyed by an explosion in 1686. The castle was greatly expanded by King Sigismund, perhaps the monarch most closely associated with the structure. If you want to see Sigismund today, you can spot him in statue form on the back of a horse in a prominent position outside of the castle. Through various repairs and redevelopments the castle continued to develop into one of the most impressive structures in this part of Europe. Train holidays to the region will offer you a good view of the castle rising above the city and the Danube as you roll into one of the stations.

Exploring History in Budapest

When you’re in Europe, train holidays that pass through Budapest can introduce you to a very different type of rail transport – the funicular railway, a common sight around many castles in this part of the world. If you do choose to take this route to Buda Castle, you will be treated to a stunning panorama of the city. That said, for those who enjoy stretching their legs, the walk up the switch-back cobbled road isn’t strenuous and also provides a great view.

In 1987 the region was announced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This encompasses more than just the castle, with its official name being: ‘Budapest, including the banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrassy Avenue.’ Cultural sites around the castle include a number of galleries and museums.

About the Author

Anna Copeland is the Marketing Manager for The Danube Express, which specialises in Europe train holidays . The Danube Express has a range of exclusive, luxurious European train holidays taking in travel across fascinating countries such as Poland, Hungary and Turkey.

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