Budapest’s Public Spaces Get a Fresh Spark: The New Square Caretaker Service
Budapest has always been known for its grand squares, vibrant streets, and historic atmosphere — but recently, visitors might notice that the city feels cleaner, calmer, and more inviting than ever. That’s no coincidence. Since October, the Budapest Public Utilities Company (Budapesti Közművek Nonprofit Zrt.) has launched a new “square caretaker service” across six of the city’s busiest public spaces, earning enthusiastic feedback from both locals and tourists.
A Hands-On Approach to Urban Care
This new initiative reflects a hands-on, human-centered approach to urban cleanliness and maintenance, inspired by successful programs in major Western European cities. Fourteen dedicated caretakers — or “térgondnokok,” as they’re called in Hungarian — now look after Budapest’s most frequented hubs: Blaha Lujza Square, Deák Ferenc Square, KÖKI, Etele Square, Örs vezér Square, and Széll Kálmán Square.
Working in two shifts from early dawn until late evening, these caretakers act as the “eyes and ears” of each square. You might spot them in their easily recognizable uniforms, moving through the area with cleaning tools or checking on public amenities. Their task isn’t only to keep the environment tidy but also to observe, report, and respond to small urban issues before they become big problems.
Keeping the Heart of the City Alive
What makes this project truly unique is its personal touch. Instead of relying solely on large-scale machine cleaning, Budapest’s caretakers bring continuity and local presence to each square. They handle everyday situations with practical care — from managing litter and emptying overfilled bins to addressing bird-related cleanliness issues and keeping bottle collection points tidy.
Their vigilance extends beyond cleaning. Caretakers pay close attention to the condition of benches, trees, and green spaces, contacting the city’s horticultural division (FŐKERT) whenever intervention is needed. This constant attention helps prevent vandalism, protect irrigation systems, and maintain the lush greenery that gives Budapest’s public spaces their charm.
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Locals and Tourists Already Notice the Difference
Early feedback shows strong public support. Both residents and visitors have praised the visible improvement in cleanliness and organization around these squares. Frequent travelers passing through Deák Ferenc Square or Széll Kálmán Square, for example, now encounter tidier pavements, well-kept flowerbeds, and a generally more pleasant atmosphere.
Tourists exploring these iconic Budapest locations — whether for shopping, sightseeing, or catching the metro — can now enjoy more comfortable surroundings. The initiative also encourages mutual responsibility: seeing caretakers at work reminds passersby to respect public spaces and keep the city beautiful.
A Shared Effort for a Greener Future
Budapest Public Utilities has extended an open invitation to local businesses, cafés, and institutions to join this effort and maintain cleaner, more sustainable public spaces together. By forming partnerships with these urban caretakers, companies around the squares can actively contribute to a cleaner and more welcoming environment — something that benefits everyone, especially the millions of tourists who experience Budapest each year.
Visiting a Cleaner, More Welcoming Budapest
As you wander through Budapest’s famous squares, take a moment to notice the renewed atmosphere — a blend of bustling city life and visible care for detail. From the early-morning bustle of Blaha Lujza Square to sunset over Deák Ferenc Square, the presence of these dedicated caretakers represents something bigger than maintenance: it’s a sign of Budapest’s ongoing commitment to creating a livable, lovable city for everyone.
For travelers, this means one thing — Budapest’s beloved public spaces are cleaner, greener, and more enjoyable than ever to explore.
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