Chain Bridge in Budapest
- attractionsthings to do
- November 18, 2023
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a monumental suspension bridge spanning the Danube in Budapest, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and historical significance. Connecting Buda and Pest since the mid-19th century, it symbolizes the city’s unity and resilience.
Chain Bridge History
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge was the first permanent link between Pest and Buda and the second permanent crossing on the Danube. Proposed by Count István Széchenyi and named after him, the bridge was constructed from 1839 to 1849, under the supervision of Adam Clark, an English engineer.
A symbol of Budapest, it was at the time of construction, the world’s second-largest suspension bridge. Its design includes lionhead-shaped capstones and the Hungarian coat of arms, adding to its aesthetic and symbolic significance.
Renovations and fortifications
By the end of the 19th century, increased traffic necessitated the fortification of the bridge. Modifications, starting in 1913, focused on reinforcing the bridge without altering its appearance, preserving its historical facade. These renovations culminated in the bridge’s reopening on 27 November 1915, under the name Széchenyi Chain Bridge.
WWII and Reconstruction
In the devastation of WWII, the Chain Bridge was destroyed by retreating German forces on 18 January 1945. Its reconstruction, beginning in 1947, involved extending pillar portals, broadening abutments, and installing pedestrian subways. The bridge was restored to its former glory and reopened on 20 November 1949, marking a century since its original inauguration.
Chain Bridge facts
• Architectural Design: Designed by William Tierney Clark, built by Ádám Clark.
• Construction Periods: Original (1839-1849), first rebuilding (1913-1915), and post-WWII rebuilding (1947-1949).
• Dimensions: Total length – 380 meters; Width – 14 to 14.8 meters; central span: 202 meters between pillars.
• Inauguration: Opened on 20 November 1849, and after WWII reconstruction, reopened on 20 November 1949.
• Structural Features: Two vaulted stone pillars, robust iron structure weighing approximately 5,200 tons.
• Unique Aspects: Stone lion statues at both ends, sculpted by Marschalko János, with an urban legend about their missing tongues.
Origin of the Name "Chain Bridge"
The bridge’s name originates from its design: the road-bed hangs on iron chains, each link forged from lengthy iron plates connected by large rivets. This design not only provides structural integrity but also allows for minor movements of the chains. The addition of ‘Széchenyi’ in the bridge’s name honors Count István Széchenyi, who was a major supporter of its construction.
The four Stone Lions and an urban legend
Sculpted by János Marschalkó and placed in 1852, the stone lions at both bridge ends have become iconic. The Buda end also features the coats of arms of the Széchenyi and Sina families.
The legend surrounding the stone lions of Budapest’s Chain Bridge tells of their sculptor, Marschalkó, being mocked for allegedly forgetting to carve tongues for the lions, which were added in 1852.
As the story goes, the omission was pointed out by a shoemaker’s apprentice, leading to widespread ridicule.
Nonetheless, contrary to the myth, Marschalkó didn’t commit suicide, but rather defended his work, stating that the lions’ tongues were intentionally not visible from the ground. To prove his point, he compared his lions with real ones in a zoo. But the rumor persisted, overshadowing his other significant works in Hungary. Marschalkó responded to the criticism with humor and irony, and he passed away naturally, not by suicide – as the legend suggests.
Tunnel under the Buda Castle
The Adam Clark Tunnel, commenced in 1853 and opened in 1856, runs beneath Buda Castle, mirroring the Chain Bridge’s length. Its creation allowed for easier northward travel from the Pest end and has become an integral part of the city’s infrastructure, designed in a classicist style.
Attractions near the Chain Bridge in Budapest
• Castle Bazaar & Royal Gardens: Recently renovated, this complex features arcades, gardens, and statues, and regularly hosts concerts and festivals.
• Clark Ádám Square: Named after the bridge’s constructor, the square is famous for the 0-kilometer stone, marking the country’s road distance measurements.
• Budapest Castle District & Buda Castle: Offers stunning views and historical sites, including the Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.
• Széchenyi Square: Home to the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace.
• Shoes On The Danube Memorial: A poignant memorial commemorating the Hungarian Jews victimized during WWII.
• Dunakorzó (Danube Promenade): Ideal for strolls, lined with cafes and luxury hotels, offering views of Castle Hill and the Danube.
Where to eat near the Chain Bridge
• Kollázs Brasserie & Bar (Pest): Located in the Four Seasons Hotel, it offers modern European cuisine in a setting reminiscent of Budapest’s coffee-house culture.
• Marionett Craft Beer House (Pest): A craft beer house within the Budapest Marriott Hotel, featuring local brews and simple, tasty food.
• Trattoria Toscana (Pest): An Italian-style tavern on the Pest bank, offering traditional Italian cuisine with a riverside panorama.
• ZONA – Fine Dining with a View (Buda): A gourmet restaurant next to the Chain Bridge, offering fine food with stunning views of historic landmarks.
• Costes Downtown (Pest): a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Pest, Costes offers an exceptional culinary experience. It’s relatively close to the Chain Bridge, within walking distance or a short drive from the bridge.
• Baltazár Grill (Buda): Baltazár Grill, situated on the Buda side, is known for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional grilled dishes and gourmet burgers. It’s a bit farther from the Chain Bridge compared to Costes Downtown, but it’s close the Buda Castle, so still accessible for a visitor exploring the Buda side, especially the Castle District.
• Pierrot Café (Buda): Also in the Castle District, Pierrot Café is a quaint and elegant restaurant with a rich history dating back several decades, and known for its classic Hungarian and European dishes.
Chain Bridge in Budapest - FAQ
How long is the Chain Bridge?
The bridge spans 380 meters in length, with a central span of 201.6 meters and a road width of 14.5 meters.
Why is it called Chain Bridge?
Originally named after its iron chains, the bridge was later renamed Széchenyi Chain Bridge in honor of Count István Széchenyi, whose support was essential for its construction.
Can you walk across the Budapest Chain Bridge?
Pedestrians can walk across the bridge on sidewalks flanking both sides of the road, and it takes about 5-7 minutes to cross it by foot.
How old is the Chain Bridge in Budapest?
As of 2024, the Chain Bridge is 184 years old, reflecting its rich history and enduring presence in Budapest. It’s the oldest permanent bridge in Budapest.
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