Liberty Square — Attraction in Budapest

Nestled in the heart of Budapest, just three blocks from the waters of the Danube is a scenic square with a turbulent history. Today a visit to Liberty Square is one of the most interesting things to do in Budapest. Picturesque statues to freedom and liberty are nestled amongst shady walkways and grassy lawns throughout the square. But in the late 1800’s this was the scene of some of the most brutal oppression in Budapest history. The mix of scenery and history make this one of the must-see destinations when you visit Budapest.

Liberty Square is in Budapest, the capital of Hungary and home to over three million people. Budapest was originally a Celtic settlement with an ancient history. The Hungarians moved in during the ninth century and have had a tumultuous existence beginning with domination by the Roman Empire and being pillaged by the Mongols and continuing through world wars and Communist revolutions. The plot of land has, obviously, seen all of this, but it only became “Liberty Square” recently.

In 1786, a massive troop barracks was built on the location by the Austrians. The barracks would go on to play a bloody role in the struggle for Hungarian independence from the Hapsburg dynasty. Many Hungarians were imprisoned and executed at the barracks, including a Prime Minister. After the Austria-Hungary Compromise in 1867, plans were made to demolish the barracks which were finally completed in 1897 when room was made for the square.

During the 20th Century, the square was the scene of protest and revolution and war. It became a monument to communist liberation (and is still the home to the last remaining communist statue) as well as a symbol of freedom from communism in the form of a statue of American President Ronald Reagan. The square itself is a part of, and symbolic of, the history of Hungary and Budapest over the last 250 years.

RONALD REAGAN MONUMENT – Ronald Reagan is honored in the square for his contribution to ending the Cold War and subsequently freeing Hungary from the Soviet Union. Reagan gave the famous speech calling on Mikhail Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin wall. He took a firm stance against the Soviet Union which helped lead to the eventual collapse. The monument looks out over the World War II memorial to fallen Soviet Soldiers.

MEMORIAL TO FALLEN SOVIET SOLDIERS – Even though the Hungarians eventually saw the Soviets as people they needed liberty from, at one time the Soviets were the liberators. During World War II the Soviets fought to liberate Hungary from Nazi conquest. This is the last remaining Soviet memorial and is well worth a visit, especially since many Hungarians dislike it and it might not last forever. The memorial is large and dominates one end of the square, the Soviet hammer and sickle still...

Liberty Square is one of my favorite spots in central Budapest. It’s a peaceful, open green space surrounded by beautiful, historic architecture, and it offers a unique mix of history, politics, and relaxation all in one place.

The square itself is very well maintained, with wide walking paths, fountains, and lots of benches where you can sit and unwind. It’s a great place to take a break from sightseeing or grab a coffee nearby and people-watch. Families, locals, and tourists all mingle here, which gives it a very authentic feel.

What makes Liberty Square especially interesting is the mix of monuments. There’s the controversial Soviet War Memorial, a U.S. Embassy right behind it, and even a statue of Ronald Reagan. It's rare to find a place where you can literally walk through different layers of 20th-century history in just a few minutes. There’s also a newer memorial to the victims of the German occupation of Hungary during WWII, which has sparked debate and protest — and you can see the handwritten notes and photos people have left behind.

Even if you're not a history buff, the architecture around the square is stunning — the buildings are grand and elegant, including the National Bank and the old Stock Exchange Palace.

Overall, Liberty Square is worth a visit if you’re in the area. It’s calm, meaningful, and full of contrasts that really make you think about Hungary’s...

I’ve been here a few times and it never disappoints! The Szabadság Tér - or Liberty Square - is a special place in the heart of Budapest and thought my husband and I should have a visit last weekend. It’s built on an old army base and parade ground that was pulled down in the mid 1800’s to make way for this most beautiful square. It’s clearly a central part of people’s lives here and is a very big area affording beautiful tree 🌳 lined walks and shady picnics on the grass and a children’s playground. The square is punctuated by stunning old buildings and palaces, each with their own history. The square’s name means that there are a lot of historical landmarks and sculptures to visit including the contentious Auschwitz Memorial at the city end, featuring a very moving Citizen’s Memorial with pictures and personal belongings of those lost to us, along with a controversial memorial to the Russian’s down the other end, who liberated Hungary from the Germans. Plenty of other statues including one of George W. Bush close to the American Embassy. There’s also a lovely cafe right in the middle of the square for that much needed break after fully exploring the square. It’s easy to get to on foot or by bus and plenty of parking underneath the square too. A lovely haven in the middle of town with some interesting...