Matthias Church

With its almost fairy-tale like presence, this remarkable Gothic church commands the skyline of Buda's Castle District. One of the most famous churches of Budapest, Matthias Church's history goes back to the 11th Century. Originally constructed as a Romanesque church, it was transformed into a mosque during Ottoman rule, but was restored to its former self in the 19th Century. Over its long existence, it has been renovated a few times, most notably in the mid-twentieth century, when its svelte bell tower underwent restoration. The coronation site of several Hungarian rulers, the church's rich and ornate interior bursts forth in a riot of colorful frescoes, paintings, motifs and ecclesiastical features. Today, it is not only a noted religious site but also a popular organ concert venue.