The Impressive Renewal of the Ybl Stairway in Buda Castle
Budapest’s Buda Castle District is once again capturing hearts with its grandeur and historic charm as the monumental renovation of the Ybl Stairway nears completion. This iconic stairway, part of the extensive National Hauszmann Program aimed at restoring the castle district to its original splendor, promises visitors an unforgettable experience combining history, architecture, and breathtaking views.
A Stairway Full of History and Promise
The Ybl Stairway, named after the renowned 19th-century architect Miklós Ybl who designed the adjacent retaining walls, stands as one of the most stately historic staircases within the Buda Castle area. Originally stretching from Szent György Square down to Palota Street, this elegant stairway was sadly dismantled during the communist era despite suffering only minor damage in World War II. Now, after decades, the stairway is being meticulously rebuilt in its original form, a testimony to Budapest’s passion for preserving its cultural heritage.
The renewed stairway serves as a pedestrian connection between several key landmarks: the József főhercegi palace, the western castle gardens, and the imposing castle walls, all part of the castle’s western slope. Visitors will soon be able to ascend and descend the stairway, complete with resting points and viewing platforms where the unique architecture combines with stunning vistas.
Where Past Meets Present: Craftsmanship and Vision
What sets the Ybl Stairway restoration apart is its painstaking attention to authenticity infused with contemporary technology. Builders and architects have relied heavily on archival photographs and documents to faithfully recreate the stairway’s outward appearance, including its distinctive materials such as clinker bricks, Süttő limestone, and granite paving. Yet, the underlying structure meets the latest technical standards, ensuring durability and safety for modern visitors.
A particularly elegant detail of the project is the recreation of the 45-degree angled protrusion at the staircase’s Szent György Square end — a charming architectural flourish offering unparalleled views over the castle’s western terraces. The surrounding western castle walls, freshly restored as well, complement the stairway, creating an inviting promenade where history and nature coexist beautifully.
What Visitors Can Expect
The lower part of the stairway, near Várgarázs 3, has been accessible since last summer, while the Lovarda Street retaining wall, complete with a pergola, also adds to the ambiance. Work is now finishing on the middle straight section hugging the Castle wall and the upper segment reaching the castle’s rooftop, structured with three distinct resting levels to allow visitors to pause, soak in the views, or take photos.
Upon completion, the stairway will open to the public following the official handover of the western castle gardens, adding a new gem to the Buda Castle District’s appeal. For foreign tourists exploring Budapest, this means a chance to traverse one of the historic heartbeats of the city, combining exercise, architecture, and views of unparalleled beauty.
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More Than Just a Stairway: The National Hauszmann Program
The Ybl Stairway is one highlight in the grander National Hauszmann Program, an ambitious redevelopment project running from 2019 through 2030. Named after Alajos Hauszmann—the castle’s last major pre-war architect—the initiative aims to restore many damaged or lost landmarks of Buda Castle, including palaces, courtyards, and public spaces destroyed or altered through war and regime changes.
By preserving authentic architectural details while integrating modern standards, the program rejuvenates the castle district’s cultural vitality and sets a new level for heritage tourism in Budapest. Besides the stairway, other spectacular restorations like the József főhercegi palace and the western gardens are revitalizing the area, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in centuries of Hungarian history.
A Walk With History Under Your Feet
Walking on the renewed Ybl Stairway isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s a journey through time and craftsmanship. Every brick and stone echoes stories from the castle’s vibrant past, while the surrounding views tell tales of royal intrigues, sieges, and artistic grandeur.
Visitors will find that the gentle ascent, punctuated by resting spots shaded by pergolas, provides perfect opportunities to pause and appreciate panoramic views of Budapest’s rolling hills and the Danube shimmering in the distance. It’s a chance for tourists to feel the heartbeat of the city while tracing footsteps once trod by Hungarian aristocracy and architects of old.
Planning Your Visit
The Ybl Stairway reopening will coincide with the completion and public access to the western castle gardens, expected soon in 2025. Tourists planning to visit the Buda Castle District should keep an eye out for official announcements to enjoy this newly revived route in all its elegance.
Whether you arrive on foot, bike, or public transport, the blend of nature, culture, and history offered by the Ybl Stairway and surrounding castle renovations makes for a perfect day trip from the bustling city center.
Budapest’s Ybl Stairway stands as a shining example of how historic preservation and modern innovation can come together, offering visitors a rich, immersive experience. As the final touches are laid, the stairway is poised to become one of the Castle District’s crown jewels, an accessible monument to the city’s past and present.
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