“With God for the Homeland and Freedom” is not just an inscription. It is the motto of the Rákóczi War of Independence. It is prominently displayed on the pedestal of the II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue.
Here before us stands the II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue. It is not merely a sculpture. It is a symbol of Hungarian resilience and the enduring quest for independence.
Ferenc Rákóczi II, Prince of Transylvania, was a pivotal figure in Hungarian history. He was a nobleman who allied with peasants. Together, they fought for a free Hungary. His cult never diminished. Every era found a hero in him. Thus, commemorating the 200th anniversary of his death in 1935 felt natural. The National Rákóczi Association proposed a collection to erect this statue.
The II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue’s planned erection was in 1936 for Kossuth Square. However, the location was already occupied by the House of Representatives’ ventilation shaft. The ventilation system was ingenious. It used underground tunnels. The shaft had to be relocated.
János Pásztor was commissioned to design the II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue. A contemporary account described the challenges. It noted the difficulty of creating a monumental equestrian statue. The statue had to fit a vast square. It needed to complement a mixed architectural setting. The sculpture embodies the Baroque style, reflecting Rákóczi’s era.
The unveiling of the II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue was a grand affair. It occurred on May 2, 1937. The entire government was present. Governor Miklós Horthy led the ceremony. Prime Minister Kálmán Darányi and Minister of Culture Bálint Hóman spoke. A military parade and gun salutes from Gellért Hill enhanced the event. The Rákóczi March filled the air.
Following the inauguration, dignitaries laid wreaths at the II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue. Miklós Horthy and other leaders paid their respects. Three Habsburg archdukes also placed wreaths. This act acknowledged Rákóczi’s role. He was a great opponent of the Habsburgs. The government, the Turkish Embassy, and various delegations also laid wreaths.
The day’s ceremonies continued. Secretary of State István Bárczy hosted a brunch. Religious services were held in prominent churches. A gala performance of Bánk Bán at the Opera concluded the day.
The II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue is monumental. It stands six meters high. The prince sits on a prancing horse. Contemporary press described the statue’s dynamic yet balanced composition. The horse rises on two legs. The prince sits almost standing. He firmly holds the bridle. His right hand holds a scepter. The statue captures the drama of Rákóczi’s life. It also reflects his majestic demeanor.
Rákóczi gazes towards the Parliament building. He wears Baroque armor. He sits confidently on his horse. The inscriptions on the pedestal have their own history. The Latin inscription was initially incorrect. During socialism, the reference to God was removed from the motto “Cum Deo pro Patria et Libertate”.
For 85 years, the II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue has stood in Kossuth Square. It was restored during a recent renovation. The statue can now be seen in its original splendor.
Today, as we stand before the II. Rákóczi Ferenc Statue, remember its significance. It embodies the spirit of a leader. He fought for Hungarian independence. The statue serves as a reminder. It is a reminder of the nation’s enduring pursuit of freedom.