A Tale of Three Cities: Budapest Turns 150
zita kisgergely
Exploring film locations in Budapest as the city celebrates 150 years since unification of the three towns of Buda, Pest, and Óbuda.
Majestically straddling either side of the Danube River, Budapest’s backstory gives some insight into why one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities is so diverse in character. Often referred to as Pest-Buda before unification in 1873, Budapest has become a harmonious blend of what once was three distinct towns. This has undoubtedly helped make it the unique and inspiring place it is today.
Heroes’ Square and Andrássy avenue, via www.dailynewshungary.hu
Pest: The Dynamic Urban Stage
Sprawling across the eastern side of the Danube, Pest is often characterized as the modern face of Budapest for its gritty, urban landscapes. But Pest is no stranger to history. Originally founded as a Celtic settlement, Pest was first mentioned in written form way back in 1148. Some think its name may have come from the Slavic word meaning oven or furnace. That’s not confirmed, but the cityscape certainly heats up like one in the summer months.
Confusingly for visitors, the locals tend to say “Pest” whenever they mean the entire city of Budapest. That might be because Pest comprises two-thirds of the city’s territory.
The gothic Hungarian Parliament Building, known as one of the architecturally most impressive parliaments in the world, dominates the Danube’s eastern bank. Other major sights this side of the river include Heroes’ Square and city park as well as the elegant boulevard that runs towards it from downtown, Andrássy Avenue.
The Hungarian Parliament, via www.parliament.hu
Pest's diverse neighborhoods, such as the lively Jewish Quarter with its plethora of backstreets, gyros joints, ruin bars and vibrant night life, offer a dynamic and modern backdrop for filmmakers seeking an urban edge.
Buda: An Epic Historical Set
Buda, nestled on the western banks of the river, was the historical capital of the Kingdom of Hungary. Chronicles from the Middle Ages claim that the name ‘Buda’ originally came from a man called Bleda. We don’t hear about him much as he was killed by his brother, Attila the Hun, who then threw his corpse in the Danube.
Despite that bloody start, Buda is regarded as Pest’s calmer sibling. Blessed with gently rolling hills and dotted with forests, Buda is often favoured by families and the well-heeled. Certainly there’s more room to roam with less of the frenetic energy of Pest. This has given rise to a friendly rivalry, with some die-hard Pest residents finding it difficult to forgive anyone who dares cross the river to live in Buda.
Fisherman’s Bastion, via www.budapestinfo. Photo: Bódis Krisztián
Buda is also a cinematic journey through time. Narrow, cobblestone streets wind their way through medieval architecture leading to the Buda Castle, perched above the Danube on the western side. The castle and surrounding district (a UNESCO World Heritage site) are a living museum perfect for period pieces.
Remnants of Ottoman rule also remain, such as the Rudas Baths. Turkish hammam culture has endured for 450 years; if you’ve ever spent a lazy Sunday afternoon hopping from one hot thermal bath to the next, it’s not hard to see why.
The Rudas Baths via www.rudasfurdo.hu
Óbuda: A Cinematic Time Capsule
Moving even further back in time we come to the oldest sibling of the trio, Óbuda. Evidence of settlements dating back to the Stone Age have been found in the area and the Romans established the capital of Pannonia here, Aquincum. The remains of one of their amphitheatres can still be visited.
The place was also a significant settlement for Hungarian tribal leaders after the year 900. The Kiscelli Museum, a Baroque monastery built in the mid 18th century, is another superb location for period projects.
The Kiscelli Museum, via Wikipedia
But it’s not just the historical significance of bygone eras that characterises Óbuda. Sziget, the music festival held here on a large island in the Danube, is touted as Europe’s answer to Burning Man in the US. The event attracts over half a million visitors annually, with headline acts like Billie Eilish, FooFighters, David Guetta and Lorde.
Sziget music festival, via www.hungarytoday.hu.
Like all great protagonists, Budapest's history is complex, troubled, and at times traumatic. It’s a history that has left deep marks on this city not only in terms of architecture, but also in less tangible ways, like atmosphere and energy. As this vibrant capital celebrates its 150th birthday, we raise a glass in celebration and hope that the lights, camera, and action continue to shine brightly on this enchanting grand dame of Central Europe.
Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.
Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.
Sources & further reading:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budapest
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pest,_Hungary
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buda
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Óbuda
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sziget_Festival