“Pedestrian-friendly zone” might not be the first phrase that springs to mind when you think of a busy city square. Yet that’s precisely the transformation in store for Horváth Mihály tér.
Horváth Mihály tér is a square in Budapest. It is located in the Csarnok and Corvin districts. These districts are in the 8th arrondissement. Once known as Templom tér and later Mária Terézia tér, Horváth Mihály tér has been a focal point for Józsefváros. Józsefváros is the city center.
The square is near the District City Hall. It is dominated by the Saint Joseph Parish Church. This space is set for a green makeover.
Imagine Horváth Mihály tér. It will be a place where recreational areas take center stage. A wooden promenade will run alongside Tavaszmező utca. Work is due to start by spring 2022.
The Szent József Church flanks one side of the square. On another side is the original telephone exchange. Ray Rezső, a notable architect, designed the exchange around World War I. The church was recently renovated. The Kozmo Luxury Hotel now occupies the former phone building.
This transformation aims to prioritize users. Local residents are being consulted on the project. This consultation is to ensure the new space meets their needs.
Horváth Mihály tér is steeped in history. It was formerly known as Templom tér until 1872. In German, it was called Kirchen Platz. It was also named Mária Terézia tér at one point. The square has evolved through different eras.
The disused grand József Telephone Center is on the square. It has been undergoing functional conversion.
Think about the sounds of construction. Imagine the laughter of children playing. Picture residents relaxing on benches. This is the future of Horváth Mihály tér. It is transforming into a vibrant public space. It will serve the community for years to come.