The shining Gothic spires of Matthias Church have not had an easy history, just like the entire structure. Built by King Béla IV around 1200 in the district of Buda — which at the time was a separate city — it was rebuilt by King Matthias Corvinus in the 1400s, from whom it takes its name. The king, who celebrated his two weddings here, left his coat of arms, the royal raven, on the façade of the tower.
During the Turkish occupation — 1541–1686 — Matthias Church was transformed into a mosque and left in decline for almost two centuries. In 1896, restoration work began in Gothic style, commissioned by the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I.
This long and troubled history ended with the bombings of the Second World War and a 20-year restoration that made it the masterpiece you can see today.
The history of the Austro-Hungarian Empire passed through here
In addition to being one of the most important religious sites in Budapest, the Church was also the setting for memorable coronations, including that of Franz Joseph I and his wife Elisabeth — Sisi — in 1867, for which Liszt composed and conducted the Coronation Mass. The acoustics of the Church are perfect, so much so that organ concerts are held here throughout the year.
What to see in Matthias Church in Budapest
On the outside, the Church is characterised by two towers: the taller one — 80 metres — is the Matthias Tower, with its lace-like stone spire, while the lower one, in Romanesque style, is the Béla Tower. The roof with its colourful tiles — pictured — is very beautiful and clearly visible from the Fisherman’s Bastion.
The interior of the Church, with its stained-glass windows, frescoes and wall decorations by Hungarian artists Lotz, Székely and Zichy, is striking for the truly unique way in which Art Nouveau, Eastern influences and Hungarian folk tradition blend together. The Church houses a rich collection of religious art, relics, coronation memorabilia and several Hungarian treasures.
Opening hours, ticket prices and other information for visiting Matthias Church in Budapest
Address: Buda District
How to get there: Bus: 16, 16A, 116. On foot from the banks of the Danube. From Adam Clark Square by the Castle funicular — 200 HUF. From Palota Ut by the lift that leads to the Castle.
Opening hours: the Church’s opening hours depend on religious services. Visits alternate with interruptions for Mass.
Full ticket: 1,600 HUF, around €7
