Hungary has a rich cultural and religious heritage, which is also reflected in its impressive churches.

Here are the top 10 most important churches in Hungary, famous for their architecture, history and significance, and frequently visited by tourists:

St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent Istvan Bazilika)
Location: Budapest
Description: Named after the first Hungarian king, St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and one of the most important religious buildings in the country. The neoclassical church is known for its magnificent dome, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Notable: It houses the mummified right hand of Saint Ishtvan, known as the “Holy Right Hand”. There are often great organ concerts in the basilica.

Tickets for Budapest’s main church are available online with and without the dome. (around 8 euros or 19 euros when purchased online). There are also guided tours of St. Stephen’s Basilica for 15 euros including admission. You can buy such tickets on the well-known German website Getyourguide: Link to Getyourguide

>>> Tickets for organ concerts should be bought online in advance using this link

Esztergom Cathedral
Location: Esztergom
Description: Esztergom Cathedral, also known as the original Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is the largest church in Hungary and the most important place of Hungarian Catholicism. It is located on a hill overlooking the Danube and impresses with its impressive Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Notable are the massive dome by Michelangelo Grigoretti and the largest altarpiece in the world.

Matthias Church (Mátyás Templom)
Location: Budapest, Buda Castle District
Description: Matthias Church in the historic Buda Castle District is one of the landmarks of Budapest. The Gothic-style church was the scene of several coronations, including that of Charles IV.

Notable: The impressive roof tiles, the artistic frescoes and the coronation of the Hungarian kings.

Buy tickets for the Great Synagogue in advance: Since a lot of tourists come to the synagogue, the queues at the ticket office can be very long. That’s why more and more visitors buy their tickets, including a guided tour in German, online in advance. Tickets and more information are available at this link

Pannonhalma Abbey
Location: Pannonhalma
Description: Founded in 996, this Benedictine monastery is one of Hungary’s oldest historical monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is not only a religious center, but also a place of culture and education.
Notable: Its amazing library with over 360,000 volumes and its important historical role in Hungarian Christianity.

Kalocsa Cathedral
Location: Kalocsa
Description: Kalocsa Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Kalocsa and one of Hungary’s most important Baroque churches. It has been the spiritual center of the Hungarian Catholic Church since its founding in the 11th century.

Notable: It is notable for its elaborate Baroque architecture, its magnificent interiors, and its exquisite frescoes and statues.

Eger Cathedral
Location: Eger
Description: The second largest church in Hungary and a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, Eger Cathedral is also the seat of the Archbishopric of Eger.
Notable: Magnificent neoclassical facade, impressive organ and annual Easter festival that attracts pilgrims.

Pecs Cathedral (Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul)
Location: Pecci
Description: Built in the 11th century, Pecci Cathedral is an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture. It has been extensively renovated over the centuries and serves as the spiritual center of southern Hungary.
Notable: The distinctive twin towers and beautifully restored interior with frescoes and sculptures.

Reformed Cathedral of Debrecen (Református Nagytemplom)
Location: Debrecen
Description: The Great Church of Debrecen is the largest Protestant church in Hungary and symbolizes the country’s Reformed Christian heritage. Its simple but impressive neoclassical design reflects the Calvinist tradition.
Notable: It was here that Hungary’s declaration of independence from the Habsburgs was announced in 1849.

St. Michael’s Cathedral, Veszprem
Location: Veszprem
Description: One of Hungary’s oldest cities, Veszprem Cathedral is dedicated to St. Michael and has been the seat of the Bishop of Veszprém since the 11th century. The church has been renovated several times, incorporating Gothic, Baroque and neoclassical elements.
Notable: Veszprém was known as the “City of Queens” in connection with the Hungarian queens.

Szekesfehérvar Cathedral
Location: Székesfehérvár
Description: Szekesfehérvar Cathedral was once one of Hungary’s most important churches, serving as the coronation and burial place of Hungarian kings. Although it is mostly in ruins, its remains are a symbol of Hungary’s medieval glory.
Notable: The cathedral is the resting place of many Hungarian monarchs, including King St. Ishtvan.

There are many more great churches in Hungary, this is our top 10 list of churches in Hungary.