Esztergom is a historic river town, best known as the home of one of Northern Europe’s largest basilicas. Hungary’s capital between the late 10th and mid-13th centuries, this small town has a long and fascinating history. Explore the crypts, cupola and treasury of the town’s fine basilica and view the exhibits displayed at several fine museums.
It’s impossible to miss the imposing Esztergom Basilica. Head inside to explore this architectural marvel. Admire the Italian Renaissance stone carving and sculpture of the marble Bakócz Chapel on the basilica’s south side. Visit the treasury, which is filled with ornate ecclesiastical artifacts. Don’t miss the huge copy of Titian’s Assumption hung over the church’s main altar. Explore the crypts below the church and climb the 400 steps to its cupola for wonderful views over the city.
Visit the Keresztény Múzeum, or Christian Museum, to see one of the most impressive collections of medieval religious art in Hungary. Browse Hungarian gothic triptychs and altarpieces, works by German, Dutch and Italian artists as well as numerous beautiful tapestries. Look for the Holy Sepulchre of Garamszentbenedek, a wheeled cart shaped like a cathedral dating back to the 15th century. The museum is located in the town’s scenic Waterbank district, a pleasant neighborhood of winding streets and attractive townhouses.
Check out the Castle Museum, found at the southern end of Castle Hill. The museum building is constructed from an unusual mixture of modern brickwork and medieval stone. Designed by French architects in the 12th century, this former Royal Palace was largely destroyed when the Turk’s invaded the city. View the exhibits housed inside which focus on local archaeological finds, including pottery dating as far back as the 11th century.
The nearest airport to Esztergom is in Budapest. Get here by train, bus or take the boat from Budapest’s Vigadó Square.
Take your time discovering the many cultural treasures of this ancient capital.
