Matthias Church
Mátyás Templom 

Officially known as The Church of Our Lady, Budapest’s St. Matthias Church, like many of the city’s ecclesiastical structures, has a long and complicated history.

About the Church
Located in the heart of the Castle District is the church of Our Lady, better known as the Matthias church.Recognizable by its facade Wight the Romanesque gate and splendid bas-relief in colored granite flanked by two bell towers - the Bela bell tower (the smaller one) and the Gothic-style Matthias bell tower, bearing the king’s coat of arms (1470), it was built in the 13th century and was Budapest’s first parish church. However, the original church structure changed many times as it was constantly being renovated and refashioned in the popular architectural style of each era.

The church takes its more common name from King Matthias, who ruled from 1458-90, well-known as a patron of the arts and enlightenment and revered for reconstructing the Hungarian state after years upon years of feudal anarchy. Matthias donated the two grand towers of the church and his crest emblazoned is situated on the south tower.

Once inside the church, a favorite stopping place of most visitors is the Ecclesiastical Art Museum. Beginning in the medieval crypt and leading up to St. Stephen Chapel, guests can view replicas of the Hungarian Royal Crown and other coronation jewels, medieval stone carvings, and a number of other beautiful sacred relics such as old chalices and vestments.

The Matthias Church Choir and Orchestra is one of the oldest music company in Hungary, operating continuously from 1688. Liturgical service is always the centre of their activities.

For more information visit the website http://www.matyas-templom.hu/ 

source: www.aviewoncities.com

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