Liberty Bridge

Overview

Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge) connects Gellért Square on the Buda side with Fővám tér and the Great Market Hall on the Pest bank. Designed by János Feketeházy for the 1896 Millennium celebrations, the iron truss bridge is painted a distinctive green and crowned by four bronze Turul birds — mythological falcons from Hungarian legend — perched on its pylons.

Highlights

• Turul Bird Statues: Four bronze raptors spreading their wings atop the bridge's main pylons, each holding the legendary Sword of God.
• Sunset Sit-Down: Locals and visitors gather on the bridge's low parapets at sunset — one of Budapest's most photographed rituals.
• Illumination: The bridge is spectacularly lit at night, reflecting off the Danube.

History

Emperor Franz Joseph symbolically drove the final silver rivet on opening day, 4 October 1896. Originally named Franz Joseph Bridge, it was renamed Liberty Bridge after World War II. Damaged in 1945, it was the first Budapest bridge to be rebuilt post-war.

Visitor Tips

• Best at golden hour: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the best light and atmosphere.
• Walk from Gellért to Market Hall: The bridge naturally connects two major attractions.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes to cross and photograph.