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Hungary – a Crossroads of Europe The history of Hungary and Budapest goes back to pre-Roman times. The country occupies a unique position in Europe. It has been open to influences from the Mediterranean world through the Western Roman Empire, then latterly the heavily Greek influences of the Byzantine Empire to the south. Over the centuries it has also seen influences, incursions and at times, the ravages and occupations, of many peoples. These included the Huns (where the name of the country comes from, although this is a misnomer as Hungarians are not descended from the ancient Huns!), the Turks, the Austrians, Germans, Russians and eventually the Soviets. All these passing tides of history have given Hungary a uniquely cosmopolitan, but essentially ‘Hungarian’ culture that is phenomenally rich. Budapest – Two Cities for the Price of One Hungary’s capital city is one of the real gems of Europe sitting astride the mighty River Danube. It reflects much of the rich and diverse cultural legacy outlined above and contains a number of ‘must see’ sites. In fact, until the latter 19th century, Buda and Pest were two different cities sitting on opposite banks of the river. Their originally separate development has given them different architectural styles and a different ‘feel’; with Buda giving off old-world ancient charms and Pest having a slightly more modern metropolis feel to it. Of course, before you can enjoy the sights, you’ve actually got to get there! Taxis just about everywhere in the industrialised world may now be fairly expensive but, fortunately, there is a regular and modestly priced Budapest airport shuttle that can take you from the airport to a number of city or wider destinations. You can find details through the Internet and by keeping your eyes open in the airport terminal for signs. Budapest – Some Key Sites No brief article can possibly do justice to this magnificent city, which is regularly cited by travellers as being one of the most beautiful in Europe. Several parts of it are listed as World Heritage Sites. It is worth doing some research before you go, but here is just a taste of what you can see: •The parliament buildings – one of the largest in the world and they also house the crown jewels •6 or 7 major museums and art galleries •Vajdahunyad Castle – built at the end of the 19th century, it is an very impressive reproduction of a typical ancient castle of the region •The Dohany Street Synagogue, which is the largest in Europe •Matthias Church – 700 years old and a building that has been at the centre of many of the major events of Hungarian history •The fishermen’s’ bastion – a spot near Matthias Church where one can take in panoramic views over the city •The embankments along the Danube, The Castle Hill and Andrassy Ut are all UNESCO heritage sites and well worth a visit •Finally, if you’ve had a little too much history and culture and fancy indulging yourself, take a stroll along Andrassy Ut – a fantastic avenue lined with impressive buildings, bars, restaurants shops and chic cafés All of these sites and many more can be easily reached if you’ve taken the Budapest airport shuttle into the city centre. Budapest offers the possibility of a fabulous weekend or short break. Cheaper flights and the convenience of the Budapest airport shuttle put the city well within geographic reach, and within the scope of even a modest budget. Enjoy!
Article Source: http://www.bharatbhasha.net Article Url: http://www.bharatbhasha.net/travel.php/219985 Article Added on Monday, March 1, 2010 LD
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