20th district

In 1950, the tapestry of Budapest shifted. Pesterzsébet, a district brimming with its own rich history, became the 20th district. Our journey through Pesterzsébet begins here, at the heart of this fascinating district. Pesterzsébet wasn’t always known by this name. Before 1924, it was called Erzsébetfalva, meaning Elizabeth’s Village. It even briefly bore the name Leninvváros during the Hungarian Soviet Republic. This reflects the tumultuous history that shaped not only Budapest but all of Hungary. Pesterzsébet rests in the southern part of Budapest, a primarily suburban area home to approximately 70,000 residents. It’s the 17th largest district, covering 12.19 square kilometers. Imagine strolling through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant community. Pesterzsébet boasts a history that stretches back to the early Bronze Age. The Celts, and later the Avars, left their mark on this land. Discoveries from the Hungarian conquest period also hint at the layers of history buried here. In 1067, a village named Gubacs was mentioned in the foundation document of the Század monastery. This marks one of the earliest recorded references to a settlement in the area. Later, the founders sought to rename the village after Queen Elizabeth. The royal family approved, and Queen Elizabeth even contributed financially to the new settlement. The village eventually merged with another significant settlement called Kossuthfalva, a name approved by Lajos Kossuth himself. This growth continued, marked by the establishment of the local council of Erzsébetfalva in 1882. The striking art nouveau village hall, designed by Ármin Hegedűs and Henrik Böhm, was completed in 1906. In front of it stands the statue of Lajos Kossuth, a testament to his influence and the village’s pride. The dedication ceremony, attended by Kossuth’s son, Ferenc, underscores the importance of this historical figure. In the heart of Pesterzsébet, the St. Elizabeth Parish Church stands tall. Built in the early 20th century, its neo-Gothic style adds to the district’s architectural charm. The frescoes, painted by Sándor Nagy from the Gödöllő artists’ colony, enrich the church’s interior. Pesterzsébet’s story continued to unfold. It became a town in 1924. Then, in 1950, it merged with Soroksár to become Budapest’s 20th district. Soroksár later regained its independence as the 23rd district in 1995. Pesterzsébet’s journey, marked by name changes, mergers, and growth, exemplifies the dynamic history of Budapest. This district offers a blend of suburban tranquility and a vibrant community spirit. It’s a place where echoes of ancient settlements mingle with the rhythms of modern life. As we leave Pesterzsébet, remember the layers of history that have shaped this district, from its earliest inhabitants to its integration into the bustling metropolis of Budapest.