Rising above the streets of Buda Castle District, Matthias Church (officially called the Church of Our Lady or Nagyboldogasszony-templom) showcases centuries of Hungarian history and architectural excellence. With a history spanning over seven centuries, it has witnessed significant historical events, from royal coronations to battles and restorations. The neo-Gothic structure we see today was the outcome of an extensive reconstruction, led by Frigyes Schulek, and completed in 1896. The Matthias Church is a must-visit destination for tourists, history enthusiasts and those seeking to explore Budapest’s cultural heritage.
Medieval origins and the influence of Matthias Corvinus
The first historical mention of the church dates back to 1247 when it was still under construction. Its foundation is attributed to King Béla IV, who decided to strengthen the city following the Mongol invasion. As Buda grew in importance, the church became a key religious and cultural center. During the 14th century, under the reign of Louis I of Hungary, the church underwent modifications that gave it its characteristic Gothic style. The construction of elaborate chapels and the elevation of its ceilings transformed it into a grand medieval place of worship.
However, the church gained its popular name thanks to King Matthias Corvinus, who ruled between 1458 and 1490. This Hungarian monarch held both of his weddings in the church, first with Catherine of Poděbrady in 1463 and later with Beatrice of Aragon in 1476. He also commissioned the construction of the iconic southern tower and placed his coat of arms on the facade, a feature that remains a notable element of the church’s architecture. The original coat of arms is preserved inside the church, while a replica is displayed on the exterior. His strong connection with the church led to its enduring nickname, Matthias Church. Under his reign, the church flourished as a royal chapel, hosting ceremonies and celebrations of great significance.
The centuries of Ottoman rule
In 1541, Buda was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, and the church was converted into a mosque. For nearly 150 years, its frescoes were covered with whitewash, its bells removed, and its Christian altars destroyed. The church, known during this period as the Grand Mosque, became an important religious center for the Muslim community of the city. Some architectural elements from the Islamic period can still be traced in the church’s structure today.
One of the most intriguing stories from this time is the legend of the hidden Madonna statue. According to historical accounts, a statue of the Virgin Mary was concealed behind a wall during the church’s transformation into a mosque. During the Christian reconquest of Buda in 1686, the wall collapsed during an intense battle, revealing the statue. The sight reportedly demoralized the defending Ottoman soldiers, aiding in the city’s recapture by Christian forces.
The return of christianity and Baroque renovations
When Christian troops, led by the Holy Roman Empire, expelled the Ottomans in 1686, the church was given to the Jesuits. They began an extensive process of restoration, introducing Baroque elements and building additional structures around the church. The Jesuits also introduced new religious traditions and re-established the church as a prominent Catholic place of worship. However, in 1723, a devastating fire severely damaged the church and its adjacent buildings, leading to further restorations that added more Baroque embellishments.
During this time, the church played a central role in the religious and cultural life of Buda. Grand processions, religious festivals and royal ceremonies were held within its walls. Despite its modifications, the church retained its historical importance and continued to be a symbol of Hungary’s resilience.
Frigyes Schulek and the Neo-Gothic revival of the 19th century
The 19th century saw the rise of the Historicist movement, leading to the restoration of the church under the direction of architect Frigyes Schulek. The renovation, which began in 1873 and was completed in 1896, aimed to restore the temple’s Gothic splendor and remove the Baroque modifications. Schulek was determined to revive the medieval grandeur of the church, using historical references and archaeological findings to guide his work.
His approach went beyond simple restoration; he reimagined the church’s missing elements with meticulous craftsmanship. He designed the magnificent Neo-Gothic Matthias Tower, added intricate decorative details and introduced the now-famous colorful Zsolnay ceramic roof tiles that make the church stand out in Budapest’s skyline. Schulek also reconstructed the royal oratory, a balcony from which the monarch once observed the services, ensuring it reflected the medieval atmosphere of the church.
Inside, stunning frescoes, inspired by ancient Hungarian legends and biblical scenes, were painted by renowned artists such as Károly Lotz and Bertalan Székely. The magnificent high altar, featuring a golden depiction of the Virgin Mary, became one of the most admired pieces of sacred art in Hungary. The stained-glass windows, crafted by master glassmaker Ede Kratzmann, illuminate the church’s interior with vibrant colors, adding to its ethereal beauty.
One of the church’s most valuable treasures is its oldest stone carving, which can be found at the base of the Béla Tower. This 13th-century artifact, discovered and restored in its original location, is considered the oldest surviving stone carving in Budapest. The intricate relief depicts two hooded figures pointing at a book on the capital of a wall pillar, offering a fascinating glimpse into medieval craftsmanship.
Few people know that Matthias Church is also the final resting place of King Béla III and his wife, Anne de Châtillon. The medieval royal couple’s remains were reinterred in the Holy Trinity Chapel in 1898, making the church a significant site for Hungarian monarchic history.
Key historical events in the church
Over the centuries, Matthias Church has been the site of many crucial historical events, including several royal coronations and national celebrations:
1309: Coronation of Charles I of Hungary.
1458: King Matthias Corvinus holds a grand thanksgiving mass after being elected king.
1867: Coronation of Franz Joseph I and his wife, Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), an event that played a crucial role in solidifying the Austro-Hungarian Compromise.
1896: The restored church is officially reopened and rededicated for Hungary’s Millennium Celebrations.
1916: Coronation of Charles IV, the last King of Hungary.
1991: Visit by Pope John Paul II during his apostolic trip to Hungary.
The Matthias Church choir
The Matthias Church is also home to one of Hungary’s oldest choirs, with a history dating back to 1688. The choir has played an essential role in preserving sacred music traditions and regularly performs during Sunday Masses, special religious events and concerts. Their repertoire includes Gregorian chants, Renaissance polyphony, Baroque compositions and works by Hungarian composers such as Franz Liszt and Zoltán Kodály.
The choir collaborates with professional orchestras and guest performers from around the world, adding to the church’s rich musical heritage. The acoustics of the church, combined with its historic organ, provide a magnificent setting for their performances, attracting audiences from across the globe.
Matthias Church today
Today, Matthias Church remains an active place of worship but also serves as a major tourist attraction in Budapest. Its stunning architecture, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Hungarian capital. The church also hosts classical music concerts, sacred art exhibitions, and is a favored venue for weddings and religious events. Visitors can explore its beautiful chapels, climb the tower for panoramic views of Budapest, and immerse themselves in centuries of history.
As part of the UNESCO-listed Buda Castle District, Matthias Church continues to be a beacon of cultural pride for Hungary. The adjacent Holy Trinity Square, with its iconic statue, enhances the spiritual atmosphere, making it a place of reflection and admiration.
- Address: 1014 Budapest, Szentháromság tér 2.
- Official website: matyas-templom.hu
- How to get there: metro line 2, buses: 16, 16A, 116
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