Budapest Sept 11

It was drizzling early this morning, but it stopped at about 9, and was clear by 11. We spent most of the day across the Danube in Buda. The Danube divides Buda and Pest, and the two sides are quite different. Pest is very flat, while Buda is quite hilly. As soon as you cross the river you have to go uphill. Luckily the is a funicular trolley that takes you up. Until1928 that was the only way up, aside from stairs.

I had a shock when I found out that using the toilet was 1,60 dollars; that is one expensive pee; I held it in. Our luck changed when we went to the Sandor Palace, which is now the National Art Museum. Admission for EU members over 70 is free, and I asked for the free tickets. I guess I look like an EU member because we got in for free. As a bonus there a FREE toilets inside. A most enjoyable experience, even the art wasn't bad.

We then walked around Buda and its sights. There are some Roman ruins, but the highlights were the Matthias Church and the Fisherman Bastions.

The church has beautiful spires, and is very graceful. The most appealing aspect though is the roof. The 250 000 ceramic tiles, made in Hungary, form a variety of beautiful patterns.

The Fisherman Bastion, so named because in the Middle Ages, this was the area where the fishermen resided, is a series of towers and covered passages. It is located along the edge of the hill, overlooking the Danube, and Pest. The towers and walls are beautifully restored and offer great views.

All in all it was a lovely way to spend the day.

We had a bit more rain in the early evening, and, instead of taking a boat cruise we treated ourselves to dessert at Gerbeaud Cukraszda, a gorgeous bake shop, which has been in business for more than 100 years. The interior was very Old Hapsburg, lovely chandeliers, and great food. A lovely way to end our last day in Budapest.

Photo 1 the Chain Bridge, the oldest bridge joining Buda and Pest

Photo 2 Matthias Church

Photo 3 another view of the church, showing the tiles

Photo 4 part of the Fisherman Bastion

Photo 5 the Parliament Building from across the river