Did you know Erzsébetváros was once the poorest district? It still wanted to be named after a queen. Today we explore Erzsébetváros. It is a vibrant part of Budapest with a rich history.
Erzsébetváros’s story starts in 1873. Budapest was unified and districts established. Terézváros was large. So it was divided. The area south of Király Street became a new district. Király Street was important. Before Andrássy Road it was the main route to City Park.
Like Terézváros and Józsefváros, Erzsébetváros began to develop in the 18th century. It grew along roads leading out of Pest. It started as a suburb. The historical Pest area was within the Inner Ring Road.
Initially Erzsébetváros was called Pacsirta Field. Later it was known as Ferdinánd Suburbs. In the 19th century more people moved here. It was still quite rural. Many houses were small. The Outer Ring Road boosted the city. A big city road and two-story houses appeared.
In 1881 the city applied to be named after Queen Elizabeth. The request was filed on 14 December 1881. It was approved quickly. On 17 January 1882 the 7th District was named Erzsébetváros. This honored Queen Elizabeth.
In 1881 Erzsébetváros and Terézváros formed a unit. Retail trade dominated the inner parts. Workers lived in the outer streets. Király Street divided the districts. The inner part used to be the ghetto. A new avenue broke the narrow streets. The outer parts were separated by City Park.
Despite growth Erzsébetváros had many cellar dwellings. About 15.53 percent of people lived there. It was the smallest and most crowded district when founded. In 1881 about 5.6 people lived per apartment. Most people per room lived here too. Craftsmen and workers lived in poor conditions.
Erzsébetváros continued to develop. Public and church buildings rose. High-rise buildings replaced rural areas. But congestion remained. A plan for a boulevard emerged. It would have been like Andrássy Avenue. It was never built.
Erzsébetváros today is a bustling area. It balances old history with modern life. Remember its humble beginnings as you explore its streets. It was once the poorest district. Now it is a thriving area. The spirit of Erzsébetváros is still evolving. The district carries a unique charm. It will welcome you with open arms.