This structure, home to Europe’s largest agricultural museum, has such a beautiful facade that it is called a castle. And instead of a moat, it has an ice rink.
Unlike other castles that are occupied by royalty, the Vajdahunyad Castle (Vajdahunyad vára) would better suit peasants, since it houses a museum of agriculture. Like many of the other large buildings in Budapest, the structure was built for Hungary’s Millennial Exhibition of 1896. View the impressive appearance of its buildings from across the lake to understand why it was given the castle nickname.
The castle is beautiful inside as well, with a marble staircase, carved pillars, crystal chandeliers and stained glass windows.
Inside, find the largest agricultural museum in Europe, with many interesting exhibits. The History of Hungarian Agriculture from the Beginning to 1945 includes information on agrarian activities and tools from Neolithic to modern times and includes interactive activities for children. Other exhibits demonstrate the development of domestic animals, hunting, fishing and forestry in Hungary, showing implements of the trades as well as art depicting workers in action.
Learn about grape growing and winemaking in another exhibit. Until the late 1800s, wine was the economic basis for nearly one third of Hungary’s population. The Natural Values, Conservation exhibit reviews Hungary’s ecologic efforts from the creation of its first protected lands in 1939 through the work that has been done to preserve numerous species. The Kingdom of Plants talks about the historical importance of plants and their uses through modern day.
In addition to the agricultural exhibits, look for the museum’s 40 other collections, ranging from stamps to scale model vehicles, including a steam engine and a walking reaper.
Vajdahunyad Castle is on Széchenyi island in City Park (Városliget). In the summer, rent a rowboat to make your way around the large lake. In winter, part of the lake is maintained as a giant ice-skating rink. Rent skates and twirl around the ice in front of the fairyland castle and take a break to enjoy mulled wine or a snack.
To get to the castle, take public transportation to Heroes’ Square. From there, it’s a five- to 10-minute walk to the castle.
