St. Stephen’s Basilica took over 50 years to build, from 1851 to 1905, surviving a dome collapse in 1868 that forced architects to rebuild large sections from scratch. Named for Hungary’s first king, it stands 96 meters tall, tied with the Hungarian Parliament as the country’s tallest building by law.
Inside, visitors can view the Holy Right Hand, a centuries-old relic believed to be the mummified hand of King Stephen I. For panoramic views over Budapest, an elevator or a 364-step climb leads to the dome’s 360-degree observation deck.
Opening hours vary by day: weekdays 9 AM-5 PM, Saturdays 9 AM-1 PM, and Sundays 1-5 PM, with an entrance fee for non-worshippers.
