The Ultimate Luxury Experience: Indulge in the Exquisite UNESCO Palace Hotel

The Matild Palace has stood proudly over the Elisabeth Bridge for over 120 years, greeting travelers who journey across the Danube River from Buda to Pest - the two halves that compose the capital city of Hungary.

The palace, constructed in 1902 during the prosperous era of the Austro-Hungarian empire, stood as a formidable representation of power and accomplishment.

Throughout its illustrious history spanning from the early 20th century to today, the Matild served as a prestigious destination where individuals sought to showcase themselves and revel in the opulence of its magnificent environment.

Europe's wealthy and renowned individuals used to gather at the public café of this palace, which was a prominent feature of Hungary's celebrated café culture, before the empire dissolved in 1918.

However, despite enduring two world wars and experiencing a revival in the 1950s, the Matild Palace deteriorated during the communist regime and subsequent post-Soviet era revival efforts failed to fully restore its former splendor.

The Matild Palace, once again, stands as a shining gem in Budapest's social scene, thanks to the remarkable efforts of esteemed interior designer Maria Vafiadis and local architects Puhl Antal and Péter Dajka. In 2021, it reestablished itself as the opulent and luxurious five-star hotel known as the Marriott-branded Matild Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, representing a new milestone in its vibrant and illustrious history.

Symbol of a new city

The lobby of the Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel.

George Fakaros/Courtesy Matild Palace

The Matild Palaces tale started in the late 19th century when Princess Marie Clotilde of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, the Archduchess of Austria, residing in Hungary, endeavored to introduce western European Belle Époque culture to the country.

In pursuit of this vision, she entrusted the construction of the Matild, along with its sister building, the Klotild Palace, which were positioned on opposite sides of the Pest-side entrance to the newly erected Elisabeth Bridge over the Danube. The Matild Palaces provided accommodation for personal apartments, along with a thriving café situated on the ground floor.

Professor József Laszlovszky, director of the cultural heritage studies program at Central European University, states that the Matild Palace held great significance as a prominent and symbolic palace situated in the heart of Pest. It represented the merging of Buda, Pest, and Óbuda in 1873 to form a new city.

Budapest emerged as a formidable metropolis by the late 19th century, propelled by rapid urban growth. This transformative process led to the establishment of expansive avenues and streets, complemented by remarkable public edifices and palatial structures.

Completed in 1902, Matild Palace swiftly became a beloved destination in Budapest, thanks to the visionary plans of architects Flóris Korb and Kálmán Giergl. It attracted a prestigious clientele, including royalty, presidents, prime ministers, and renowned celebrities. The interiors mesmerized visitors with their exquisite Zsolnay ceramics and breathtaking stained glass masterpieces by the celebrated Hungarian artist, Miksa Róth.

The original construction of the palace employed pioneering techniques that were unprecedented in Hungary. The combination of a solid iron core structure embellished with intricately carved stone showcased the remarkable architectural innovation of the era.

Café culture

The Matild has been a center for café culture in Budapest throughout its history.

In the past two decades, there have been several efforts to restore the grandeur of the original structure and the café house," states Laszlovszky. "However, it was only accomplished within the last five years with the completion of the Matild Palace hotel, which successfully restored the building to its former glory.

Therefore, it stands as an exceptional illustration of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, and is regarded as one of the foremost representations of Budapest's café house culture.

Following the end of the war, the Matild Palace underwent restoration in 1956, coinciding with the Hungarian Revolution, a brief revolt against Soviet dominance. The reopening of the palace café during this period symbolized a fresh start, offering hope and renewal to the people of Budapest. Once again, the café became a bustling center of activity, and the palace swiftly resumed its full functionality, albeit with increased oversight.

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Laszloszky states that following the shift in the communist system, the café house was taken over by the government, marking the beginning of an extended period where the building served various purposes. Nevertheless, he points out that these alternative uses frequently led to the disregard of the building's architectural and artistic features, gradually eroding its café culture.

The café house served initially as a student canteen and later transformed into a nightclub. Throughout the changes, the original architectural design was overlooked, resulting in significant alterations to the decoration.

Despite this, the Matild Palace managed to retain its undeniable elegance. This historic architectural masterpiece proved its resilience and, notably, reflected the indomitable spirit of the Hungarian people. As a testament to its significance, the palace received UNESCO protection in 1977.

After undergoing another extensive refurbishment in 1984, the Belvárosi Kávéház reopened with a new identity as Lidó. During this period, Lidó transcended its status as a mere café and transformed into a thriving cultural center. It became renowned for hosting a lunchtime folklore show featuring mesmerizing dance and music performances, as well as captivating live jazz, cabaret shows, and an array of other entertainment options.

$80 million transformation

One of the hotel's luxurious rooms.

George Fakaros/Courtesy Matild Palace

With the onset of the new millennium, Hungary witnessed the continued adaptation and evolution of the Matild Palace. The Lidó, originally a disco club, later transformed into a casino, and presently stands as the Matild Café & Cabaret, meticulously restored to honor its Belvarosi Kávéház heritage.

Nonetheless, the most notable transformation took place in 2017, with the commencement of a significant renovation project valued at $80 million, aimed at converting the Matild Palace into a lavish luxury hotel.

Péter Dajka, one of the architects involved in the recent renovation projects at Matild Palace, emphasized the meticulous effort put into restoring the historic spaces to their original state. The aim was to bring back the atmosphere that existed 120 years ago, as it is considered the soul of the building. This preservation was integral to both the hotel's concept and the narrative of its interior design.

The Matild Palace has been meticulously restored to its original splendor, ensuring the preservation of its historical integrity. The restoration project encompasses the revitalization of the façade, passage, staircases, interiors, and historical café, reinstating their original Belle Époque elegance.

"We aimed to return this iconic building to the people of Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary," stated Selim Olmez, the general manager at Matild Palace, a prestigious Luxury Collection Hotel. "All of our dining establishments are open not only to our hotel guests but also to visitors and locals alike."

Our guestrooms have been meticulously designed to pay homage to our extraordinary history, with exquisite details like headboards crafted by skilled Hungarian artisans, Hungarian fishbone-patterned parquet floors, and artwork inspired by the literature of Budapest.

As a tribute to the origins of the Matild Palaces, the most luxurious rooms in the hotel have been named the Maria Klotild Royal Suite, retaining the authentic Hungarian spelling of the archduchess's name. This extraordinary suite, which has received prestigious accolades, boasts crystal chandeliers, stunning handmade glass mosaics, and custom-made furniture, including marble-clad electric fireplaces and opulent gilded bathrooms.

Olmez says the hotel is also trying to celebrate the importance of the palaces café as a socializing hub for artists through the years.

The hotel overlooks the Danube river.

George Fakaros/Courtesy Matild Palace

The café has transformed into a showcase of artifacts, archival photos, and artworks that reflect its history as a gathering place for Budapest's creative minds. Outside, a statue of the esteemed Hungarian writer Gyula Krúdy, a regular at the Belvárosi Kávéház, stands proudly.

Olmez believes that a flourishing café culture can appeal to both tourists and locals alike. The palace's café is not only a magnet for those interested in history, art, or seeking a distinct social experience, but it also promotes a sense of community and encourages social interaction.

Here are some other highlights of the place:

Spago by Wolfgang Puck is introducing its innovative Beverly Hills dining concept to Hungary, presenting a modern interpretation of traditional Hungarian cuisine alongside Puck's renowned Californian dishes with a local twist.

Spago by Wolfgang Puck, Matild Palace, Budapest, Vaci Utca 36, Budapest 1056; +36 30 550 5050

The Duchess at Matild Palace

Discover The Duchess, an enchanting liquor library tucked away in the heights of Budapest's rooftops. With its stunning vistas overlooking the city, this opulent garden bar pays homage to the archduchess who entreated for a clandestine watering hole during the construction of the illustrious Matild Palace in 1884.

Address: The Duchess, Matild Palace, Vaci Utca 36, Budapest 1056

Contact: +36 30 550 5000

Result:

Matild Café & Cabaret, with its two-story Belle Époque-style, has undergone a stunning transformation into a lively and elegant party destination that serves the entire city. The cabaret shows take place on a hydraulic elevated stage that was unexpectedly discovered in the center of the room during the hotel's extensive renovation project.

Matild Café & Cabaret, Matild Palace, Budapest, Vaci Utca 36, Budapest 1056; +36 30 550 5000

Swan Spa at Matild Palace

Experience the enchantment of the Swan Spa at Matild Palace, a truly captivating boutique spa nestled in the heart of Budapest. Immerse yourself in the soothing embrace of our Turkish-Hungarian-inspired bath, as you indulge in the rejuvenating wonders of thermal therapy and indulgent Hammam rituals. Visit us at Vaci Utca 36, Budapest 1056 or call +36 30 550 5000.

Danube River. The suites at Matild Palace provide a luxurious and opulent experience for guests. With a total of 19 executive suites, visitors have a variety of options to choose from. Each suite is meticulously designed with the utmost attention to detail, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From the moment guests step into their suite, they are greeted with elegance and sophistication. The suites offer stunning panoramic views of Budapest, allowing guests to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of the city. Whether it's a romantic getaway, a business trip, or a family vacation, the suites at Matild Palace cater to every need and desire. With their luxurious amenities, spacious layouts, and unparalleled comfort, these suites are the epitome of luxury and indulgence. Experience the ultimate in sophistication and relaxation at Matild Palace.