The first renovated part of the Budavári Palace was completed, during the reconstruction, the southern connecting wing was restored to its original, turn-of-the-century condition.
The southern facade of the part of the building was rebuilt according to the original plans within the framework of the National Haussmann Program, and the northern facade facing the Lion's Court was also renovated and can be seen in its original form. After the restoration of the interior structure, the interior design of the reborn Szent István hall also began in the wing of the building a few weeks ago, announced the Castle Administration.
The southern connecting wing is a relatively narrow part of the building within the complex of the Budavári Palace, which was built at the same time as the new wing in Krisztinaváros based on the plans of Alajos Hauszmann. In 1902, the internationally famous Szent István hall was created in the part of the building, also called the southern neck member, which could be approached from the east and west palace wings. Both facades of the nave were designed almost identically, on both sides of the north gate facing the Lion's Court, the figures of Károly Senyei's sculpture group War and Peace were placed.
In the Second World War, the southern connecting palace wing was seriously damaged. Instead of restoration, the facade overlooking Gellért Hill was simplified and rebuilt on the instructions of the state party, and for decades only the view from the courtyard reminded of the original conditions. In the part of the building, the Szent István room was also destroyed, after the reconstruction after the war, a study room and a storage room were created in its place.
The announcement highlights: on the south side, the first restored facade of Budavári Palace can be seen from afar, now reborn in its turn-of-the-century light, as Alajos Hauszmann dreamed. Instead of the stripped walls and featureless windows created after the Second World War, the columns and reliefs made of Süttő limestone that decorated the facade were returned. The Castle Administration also restored the original windows designed by Hauszmann and manufactured by Endre Thék.
In order to ensure an authentic restoration, the southern facade was completely demolished and then rebuilt according to the original plans, as well as the contemporary interior structure. The works began with wall research, monument protection and archeological research, during which memories of several eras were found. The revealed details and archival photos were also used for the sake of an authentic end result.
Restoration specialists are currently cleaning and repairing the stone elements on the northern side facing the Lion's Yard. The period windows have already been replaced here, and the entrance has the carved wooden doors of the Haussmann period. After the works are completed, new decorative lighting will further enhance the beauty of the palace wing. The first phase of the external renovation of Budavári Palace can also be interpreted as a test task, the reconstruction continues, with the work proceeding from Szent György tér, from north to south.
The doors of the restored south connecting wing and the reborn Szent István hall will be opened to the public on August 20, free of charge for the first few days.
MTI
Photo: Castle Administration
