Standing sentinel along the east bank of the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary, lies a chilling memorial known as “The Shoes on the Danube Bank” (Hungarian: Cipők a Duna-parton). Erected in 2005, this powerful artwork transcends mere aesthetics, serving as a somber echo of the brutal past and a poignant reminder of the victims of the Arrow Cross terror during World War II. A Memorial Born from a Filmmaker’s Vision: Conceived by filmmaker Can Togay, the idea for the memorial was sparked by a harrowing scene in his own film Fateless (Sorstalanság). The film depicts the experiences of a young Jewish boy during the Holocaust, including witnessing the execution of Jews at the Danube’s edge. This deeply disturbing scene, unfortunately rooted in historical reality, became the impetus for the creation of a powerful public memorial. Sculpting History in Iron: Executed by sculptor Gyula Pauer, the memorial features sixty pairs of…

An interview with Amélie During the last few years, Budapest has become a popular destination for Erasmus students from all over the world. Let it be because of the culture, because people consider it cheap or else. Among them is Amélie, a 27 years old French student currently doing her internship in the city, living in a students flat around Népliget, and getting interviewed by one of her Spanish roommates. Here, we will dig a little bit about her experiences and insights, as we sit down with Amélie to discuss her journey, from her first impressions to her recommendations. Diving into the interview So, to being with, let’s go with an easy yet hard question. Easy because you should say the first thing that comes into mind, yet hard, because I’m pretty sure a lot of ideas will pop in your head: Q: What was your first opinion of Budapest…

Budapest, the enchanting capital of Hungary, serves as an ideal gateway to explore not only the beauty of Hungary itself but also the neighboring countries of Central Europe. With its strategic location and well-connected transportation network, Budapest offers travelers the opportunity to embark on unforgettable day trips to nearby countries, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Let’s embark on a journey through the countries easily accessible from Budapest and discover the wonders that await just beyond Hungary’s borders.Just a stone’s throw away from Budapest lies Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. Situated on the banks of the Danube River, Bratislava boasts a picturesque old town characterized by cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and charming cafes. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleys of the old town, visit iconic landmarks such as Bratislava Castle and St. Martin’s Cathedral, and enjoy stunning views of the river from the city’s scenic promenades.…

Nestled along the scenic Danube Bend, just a short distance from the bustling streets of Budapest, lies the historic town of Visegrád. With its medieval castle, breathtaking vistas, and lush natural landscapes, Visegrád offers visitors a captivating blend of history and nature. Easily accessible from Budapest, a day trip to Visegrád is a journey back in time to a land where legends come to life and beauty abounds. Traveling from Budapest to Visegrád is a seamless and scenic experience. Visitors can opt for a variety of transportation options, including trains, buses, or even a leisurely boat cruise along the Danube River. The journey typically takes around an hour, allowing travelers to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Hungarian countryside as they make their way to their destination. Upon arrival in Visegrád, visitors are greeted by the imposing silhouette of Visegrád Castle, perched majestically atop a hill overlooking the Danube River.…