Gresham Palace

Many imposing buildings in Budapest are called 'palaces' (palota) although like this one, most of them have had no royal or aristocratic tenants. This city block stands opposite the Chain Bridge and was built by and for the Gresham Insurance Company of London in wonderful art-nouveau style. It has been in a state of decay for years, but now the builders are in as the palace has been bought by the Four Seasons hotel group, after a long wrangle with sitting tenants. Their intention is to turn it into the city's most luxurious hotel, and the only obligation they have is to retain the facade as it once was.

Check out the splendid wrought-iron peacocks on the gates to the courtyard and the marble plaque in the entrance hall listing all the company's directors from the time it was built. There is also a bust of Sir Thomas Gresham on the facade. When it is finished, this will probably be the most prestigious building in the city but if you have the chance, visit it now to get an idea of what it would have looked like a hundred years ago.

Copyright © 1999-2009 wcities.com All rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

• Attraction Type: Monuments and Landmarks
• Average User Rating: 8.0 [rate it]

• Add to MY Places