Heroes' Square

Exploring the Square and Its Surroundings

Heroes' Square sits at the far end of Andrássy Avenue, the elegant boulevard that runs from the city centre towards City Park (Városliget). Its centrepiece is the Millennium Monument, built to mark the thousandth anniversary of the Magyar conquest of the Carpathian Basin, celebrated in 1896. A tall column topped by the Archangel Gabriel rises above a group of equestrian statues representing the chieftains of the Magyar tribes, while two curved colonnades behind them hold statues of figures from Hungarian history. In front of the column lies the Memorial Stone of Heroes, which gives the square its name.

Museums on either side

The square is framed by two major cultural buildings. On one side stands the Museum of Fine Arts, known for its European art collections, and on the other the Hall of Art (Műcsarnok), which focuses on contemporary exhibitions. Both are worth checking in advance, as opening times and temporary shows change throughout the year.

Getting there

The easiest way to arrive is on the M1 metro line, the historic Millennium Underground, which runs beneath Andrássy Avenue and has a stop right at the square. Walking the length of the avenue is also rewarding, passing grand villas, embassies and the Opera House along the way.

Tips for your visit

• Come early in the morning or towards evening for softer light and fewer crowds if you want photographs of the monument.
• The open plaza offers little shade, so bring water on hot summer days.
• Continue into City Park afterwards, where you will find Vajdahunyad Castle, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and plenty of green space for a break.
• The square is sometimes used for public events and ceremonies, so access to parts of it may occasionally be limited.

If you are planning a day around the area, our Places section covers other notable spots in Budapest, and the Guides offer practical ideas for combining sightseeing with local errands.