Budapest Reclaims Its Treasures! Archduke Palace and Military Command Building Under Reconstruction

- listopada 21, 2025

Reconstruction of the historic Supreme Command Building

Latest Reconstructions in Budapest

For several years, Budapest has been steadily reclaiming its lost treasures. On Castle Hill, two spectacular reconstruction projects are currently underway, restoring buildings that were almost completely destroyed during the war: the Archduke Joseph Palace and the nearby Main Military Command Building. Beyond faithfully restoring their historic appearances, both structures will gain new functions designed to attract tourists. These projects are part of the large-scale government initiative Nemzeti Hauszmann, which aims to restore the former glory of Castle Hill.

The Main Military Command Building

One of the most impressive undertakings is the reconstruction of the historic Main Military Command Building at Dísz Square. Designed by the renowned architect Mór Kallina, the building was originally constructed between 1895 and 1897. During World War II, it suffered severe damage, including the destruction of its distinctive dome. After 1945, authorities deemed the building unnecessary, and between the 1950s and 1960s, it was gradually dismantled down to the first floor. For decades, the ruins stood as a silent witness to the destruction and transformation of Budapest, a reminder of the lost splendor of the city’s historic architecture. The ongoing reconstruction restores the building’s monumental appearance and faithfully reproduces all facade details. Interestingly, surviving fragments from the war will be incorporated into the new structure, giving the building a unique character. The reconstructed building will house the Institute and Museum of Military History, an institution comparable in significance to the Polish Army Museum. This addition will enrich Castle Hill and offer visitors a fascinating insight into the history of Hungarian armed forces.

Reconstruction of the historic Supreme Command Building

Archduke Joseph Palace – The Return of a Lost Gem

The history of Archduke Joseph Palace dates back to the 18th century. The first classical-style building was erected in 1789, but it gained its new glory in 1892 when Archduke Joseph Charles Louis commissioned a historicist-style reconstruction. The palace, with its characteristic corner towers, stood out among neighboring buildings, and its terraces offered stunning views of the Krisztinaváros district and Sándor Palace. The interiors were equally impressive, featuring richly decorated ceilings, marble floors, and dark wood furniture.

However, World War II left a tragic mark on the palace. During the 1944 siege of Budapest, the building was repeatedly hit. Post-war communist authorities deemed its reconstruction unnecessary, and by 1968, the palace was almost completely demolished to its foundations. Fortunately, the site remained undeveloped, allowing reconstruction to begin decades later. In the early 21st century, detailed archaeological studies of the site were conducted, with remnants displayed for visitors. The actual reconstruction, however, took years to begin. Work finally started two years ago, following the historical plans of Flóris Korb and Kálmán Giergl, ensuring the building will reflect its 19th-century appearance. The new palace will include office spaces and event halls accessible to visitors. The complex’s garden and former neo-Renaissance stables will also be revitalized, eventually becoming another tourist attraction.

The reconstructed Prince Joseph Palace

While both reconstructions faithfully restore the exterior appearances, the interiors will largely not be recreated, except for the palace’s main hall, which will be fully restored, complete with its lavish decorations and grand staircase. The decision not to reconstruct all interiors is primarily due to costs. Rebuilding the large-scale structures alone is already expensive, and full interior restoration would require significant additional funding. Moreover, the buildings will serve new purposes, necessitating changes to the original layout. Nevertheless, historical photographs and descriptions survive, making full restoration theoretically possible. Visitors will, however, have the opportunity to experience the historic character of the palace through the restored main hall.

The reconstructed Prince Joseph Palace

Recent years have shown Budapest’s consistent commitment to reclaiming its lost heritage and restoring the city’s historic character. The projects currently underway on Castle Hill are part of this broader trend, primarily realized through the Nemzeti Hauszmann Program. These are not the first comprehensive reconstructions on the site: in 2021, the former Riding Hall and Guard Building were completed, and this year, work on the former Red Cross Building is also concluding. All these projects have been documented on the Architektoniczna Rewolta Polska profile.

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