BUDA & Services at Heroes Synagogue

Our last stop with our private guide was the Budapest Castle/Royal Palace on Castle Hill, a historic castle complex that is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. It houses several museums, the National Széchényi Library, and the Hungarian National Gallery. It is a mix of architectural styles from medieval to Art Nouveau. The complex also includes notable sites like the Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church. The Castle was completed in 1265 and many Hungarian Kings lived here. It was damaged during WWII and rebuilt in Baroque style. Next door is the Sándor Palace, which is the official residence of the President of Hungary. The President’s residence must have had some unrest when we were there because our guide said he never saw so much security, and we could not get too close.

The Heroes' Temple, 1931, a memorial to Hungarian Jews who gave their lives during WWI which seats 250 people and is used for religious Services and where we attended Services this evening. Due to security concerns, we had to be pre-approved in advance to attend and provide passports when we arrived. The Services had an incredible Men’s Choir that we heard as well as a Cantor with a traditional baritone voice. The Temple had its own prayer book and Friday night Services that we were able to follow. A very interesting experience.Read more