Dreaming of a peaceful escape within the city? Welcome to Kiscelli parkerdő. This isn’t just any park. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine.
Kiscelli parkerdő and the Kiscelli Museum share a rich past. The story begins in the 18th century. The Zichy family built a baroque church and monastery here. They entrusted it to the Trinitarian order. These monks focused on freeing Christian slaves from the Ottoman Empire. Imagine their dedication. They even offered themselves in exchange for prisoners.
In 1783 Emperor Joseph II dissolved the Trinitarian order. Kiscell lost its religious importance. The monastery became army barracks and a military hospital. Soldiers were tended here. Even their families could stay.
Fast forward to 1910. Miksa Schmidt a furniture factory owner bought the complex. He transformed it into a castle. It became known as Schmidt Castle. Schmidt filled the castle with his furniture. He decorated the courtyard with sculptures. He reorganized the park with statues and terraces. Though he didn’t live there he hosted clients.
Schmidt’s will was generous. He left the castle and park to Budapest. There was a condition. The building should become a museum. The park should remain open to Buda’s children.
Unfortunately the city auctioned off much of the inheritance. The Kiscelli Museum finally opened later. It houses local history and fine arts collections.
World War II caused great damage. The park’s artwork was mostly destroyed. Locals scavenged what remained. The museum building and church suffered greatly. The roof collapsed. Johann Gfall’s dome fresco was lost.
In 1956 freedom fighters used the building as a stronghold. They fought Soviet troops for ten days. The church ruins remained until the 1960s. Nature reclaimed the space. Weeds grew. The interior lay exposed.
Reconstruction happened between 1976 and 1983. The roof was rebuilt. Windows were walled up. The interior wasn’t restored. Today the Kiscelli ruin stands. It is a unique space for exhibitions.
The Kiscelli parkerdő stretches across 15 hectares. It’s a favorite spot for walks. A tourist path winds through the park. You’ll discover the Kiscelli Calvary a Golgotha sculpture and the Holy Blood Chapel.
The Kiscelli parkerdő offers more than just history. It provides a green oasis. Come and explore its paths. Discover its stories. Enjoy the blend of culture and nature.