Although Budapest has long been associated with the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building on the banks of the Danube, St. Stephen's Basilica can also claim the title of the city's hallmark. It is equal in height to the famous Parliament of Budapest: both buildings have the status of the highest in Budapest. Besides, St. Stephen's Basilica is also one of the three largest cathedrals in the country.

Do not be surprised if you hear another name of the temple, St. Istvan's Basilica: it was consecrated in honor of the first king and founder of Hungary, Istvan I, whose name was Latinized as Stephen I due to the complexity of the Hungarian language.

The basilica is located in the eastern part of Budapest, as well as the majority of the most famous landmarks of the city. While walking along the Hungarian Parliament Building and by the sculpture of "Shoes on the Danube promenade," turn deep into the city and come to Liberty Square. From there, go to the intersection of October 6th and Zrinyi streets. And here you are, in St. Stephen's (Istvan) Square, right in front of the basilica.

The size of this Catholic temple is striking: its length is 87.4 m, width – 55 m, and height – 96 m. It can accommodate more than 8 thousand people. The basilica was built in the neo-Renaissance style, marked by a mixture of elements of the Northern Renaissance: Gothic, French Renaissance, and German Baroque. The building has the shape of an equal-sided cross. The main facade is adorned on the sides with two tall bell towers, one of which houses the largest bell in Hungary. A massive dome occupies the center of the cathedral. All visitors to the basilica are greeted by an inscription in Latin hanging over the entrance: Ego sum via veritas et vita ("I am the way, the truth, and the life").

The interior of the temple was designed at the end of the 19th century by the best craftsmen of Hungary. There are beautiful mosaic patterns and stained glass windows, luxurious marble and gilding, paintings with scenes from St. Stephen's life. The altar is decorated with a statue of St. Stephen, which stands next to the saint's relics, the palm of his right hand.

St. Stephen's Basilica is not only the majestic temple and the functioning Catholic cathedral but also an excellent viewing platform and a venue for classical music concerts.