Saint Stephen’s Church stands tall and majestic, extending high over the rooftops of Budapest, capital of Hungary.

Construction of the basilica began in 1851 but, following several alterations and setbacks, it was not completed until 1905. The towers of this magnificent building measure ninety six metres high. During its construction it encountered many disasters and in 1868 its entire dome collapsed.

Paintings and sculptures decorate the spacious interior. The most famous painting is by Gyula Benczúr. It is situated next to the second altar, on the right hand side, and depicts Saint Stephen offering the Hungarian Crown to the Virgin Mary.

Just as the life's work of St. Stephen shines out from within Hungarian history, its basilica is considered to be its greatest treasure. Thus its damaged towers, fading frescoes and stucco work have undergone comprehensive restoration. It also contains a unique, precious relic: the embalmed right hand of King Stephen The First.

Saint Stephen's Basilica: here, the history, religious faith and national pride of a country have truly survived the ravages of time.