Ever heard of a statue so popular its horse’s testicles are polished for good luck? That’s the Monument of András Hadik von Futak for you. This equestrian statue in Buda Castle is more than just art. It is a symbol of Hungarian military bravado and good fortune.
The Monument of András Hadik von Futak stands proudly in Úri Street. You can find it near Matthias Church. György Vastagh created this masterpiece in 1937. The statue captures András Hadik in his captain’s uniform. He sits atop a detailed stallion.
But who was András Hadik? He was a celebrated Hungarian hussar. He lived in the 18th century. Empress Maria Theresa favored him. He rose from a simple nobleman to a prominent military leader. Hadik was known for his intelligence. He used tricks and surprises in battle. People called him the “Hussar of all hussars”.
One of his most famous exploits was in 1757. During the Seven Years’ War, Hadik led 3,500 hussars to Berlin. King Frederick of Prussia was away. Hadik’s troops secretly approached the city. They pretended to be securing the roads. Then they attacked.
The hussars destroyed Prussian weapon industry in Buchholz. They demanded money from Brandenburg towns. On October 15th, they reached Berlin. Hadik split his army to attack from two directions. Berlin’s commander underestimated the threat. King Frederick sent Prince Moritz von Anhalt-Dessau to help.
But the Hungarian hussars didn’t wait. They asked Berlin for 300,000 thalers as tribute. When refused, they raised the demand to 500,000. They also wanted 12 pairs of gloves with Berlin’s coat of arms for Maria Theresa. Legend says the Prussians sent 24 left-handed gloves.
The city guard offered little resistance. The bourgeoisie gathered 235,000 thalers. They added gifts like horses and supplies. The hussars stayed in Berlin for only 24 hours. Before the Prussian prince arrived, they left with 400 prisoners. They also took six Prussian flags.
This victory greatly shamed Frederick. András Hadik received the title of count. He gained an estate in Futak. He also received the Great Cross of the Military Order of Mary Theresa.
The statue commemorates this daring raid. It recalls the cult of Hungarian hussars. Hadik’s story is one of bravery and cunning. He embodies the spirit of the Hungarian military.
Now let’s talk about the horse. Its testicles are remarkably shiny. Students from the University of Technical Sciences maintain them. They believe touching them brings good luck. Tourists also participate in this tradition. It ensures the Monument of András Hadik von Futak remains a memorable landmark. People often forget the general. But they never forget the horse’s shiny testicles.
So, next time you are near the Monument of András Hadik von Futak, give the horse a pat. Who knows? Maybe it will bring you some good fortune. Remember András Hadik. He was a hero. He outsmarted his enemies. His legacy lives on in this quirky Budapest statue.