The Bodor Music Well: A Unique Attraction on Margaret Island
If you’re looking for a unique and historical attraction during your visit to Budapest, make sure to stop by the Bodor Music Well on Margaret Island. This charming fountain, located in the northern part of the island near Árpád Bridge, offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
History and Significance
The Bodor Music Well is named after Péter Bodor, a talented Transylvanian handyman who built the original fountain in Marosvásárhely, Romania between 1820 and 1822. The original well was a remarkable feat of engineering for its time, featuring a pavilion-like base, a semi-spherical dome, and a statue of Neptune/Apollo that rotated once every 24 hours, indicating the time with its trident. The fountain not only rotated the statue but also played a different song every six hours, which could be heard in nearby villages at night. Unfortunately, the original well was destroyed by a snowstorm in 1836 and was eventually demolished in 1911.
Architectural Details
In 1935-1936, a duplicate of the Bodor Music Well was built on Margaret Island by György Páll and Gyula Jankó. This replica faithfully recreates the visual appearance of the original fountain, with its pavilion base, dome, and rotating Neptune/Apollo statue. However, the musical mechanism has been updated to modern technology, with hidden speakers playing characteristic music from the turn of the 20th century every hour.
Getting There
The island is accessible by foot from Árpád Bridge on the north side or Margaret Bridge on the south side. Visitors can reach the island by taking the 4/6 tram from Jászai Mari square or Oktogon, or bus number 26 from Nyugati Railway Station and get off at the “Palatinus fürdő” stop. Alternatively, a leisurely walk or bike ride across the Margaret Bridge will lead you directly to the island. To reach the Bodor Music Well, simply head to the northern part of Margaret Island.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting the Bodor Music Well take time to explore other attractions nearby. If you are up for a short walk, visit the Japanese Garden, the Water Tower, and Petting Zoo. The Margaret Island Music Fountain is a bit further away, but it is a must see attraction when visiting Margaret Island.
When you arrive at the Bodor Music Well, take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and imagine the ingenuity required to create such a marvel nearly two centuries ago. As the music plays and the statue rotates, you’ll be transported back in time and gain a newfound appreciation for the rich history and culture of Budapest.
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