Primatial Cathedral Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary taken into Heaven and St Adalbert
Hungary·Esztergom·Archdiocese of Esztergom-Budapest
The Primatial Cathedral Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary taken into Heaven and St Adalbert, commonly known as the Basilica of Esztergom, is the largest church in Hungary and the mother church of the Archdiocese of Esztergom-Budapest. It is a significant ecclesiastic site, serving as the seat of the Catholic Church in Hungary, and is dedicated to the Assumption of Saint Mary and Saint Adalbert. Its construction history spans centuries, with the current edifice beginning in the early 19th century on the site of earlier cathedrals dating back to the 11th century.
Key Facts
- ›The basilica is the largest church in Hungary, with an inner area of 5,600 M².
- ›Its construction began in 1822, with the upper church dedicated on August 31, 1856.
- ›The current structure stands on the foundations of the first Hungarian cathedral, built by Stephen I between 1001 and 1010.
- ›The dome is 71.5 meters high internally and 100 meters externally, featuring 12 windows.
- ›The crypt, built in Old Egyptian style, is the resting place for several archbishops, including József Mindszenty.
- ›The Bakócz Chapel, a precious example of Renaissance art, was moved and incorporated into the new basilica in 1823.
Classicist, Renaissance
Assumption of Mary, Saint Adalbert
- Relics of Catholic Martyr and Saint Marko Krizin
- Matthias' Calvary
- Suki Chalice
PáL KüHnel, JáNos Packh, JóZsef Hild
About Primatial Cathedral Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary taken into Heaven and St Adalbert
The Primatial Cathedral Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary taken into Heaven and St Adalbert, more commonly known as the Basilica of Esztergom, stands as the largest church in Hungary and holds the distinguished position of being the mother church of the Archdiocese of Esztergom-Budapest. It also serves as the primary seat of the Catholic Church within Hungary. The basilica is dedicated to two revered figures: the Assumption of Saint Mary and Saint Adalbert.
Historical Significance and Construction
The current magnificent structure is built upon the historical foundations of several earlier churches, dating back to the very beginnings of Christianity in Hungary. The first cathedral on this site, the Saint Adalbert church, was erected by Stephen I of Hungary between 1001 and 1010, marking it as Hungary's inaugural cathedral. Over the centuries, it endured invasions and fires, being rebuilt and enhanced. Notably, it was captured by the Ottomans in 1543, leading to the demolition of its sanctuary and its subsequent use as a mosque.
The modern basilica's construction commenced on April 23, 1822, on the feast day of St. Adalbert, under the initiative of Archbishop Sándor Rudnay, who aimed to restore Esztergom's status as the nation's spiritual heart. The upper church was finally completed and consecrated on August 31, 1856, an event graced by the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph and the premiere of Franz Liszt's "Gran Mass."
Architectural Features
The basilica's architecture is primarily attributed to Pál Kühnel, with János Packh and later József Hild overseeing its construction. The main facade faces east, a design influenced by the site's topography. The edifice is characterized by its imposing dome, a semi-spherical structure situated centrally, featuring 12 windows. Internally, the dome reaches a height of 71.5 meters, making it one of the world's tallest, with a diameter of 33.5 meters. Externally, it stands 100 meters high. The basilica's inner area spans 5,600 m², with dimensions of 118 meters in length and 49 meters in width.
A significant architectural gem incorporated into the basilica is the Bakócz Chapel. Originally built between 1506–1507 by Italian masters, this chapel is renowned for its red marble and Tuscan Renaissance motifs, and is considered the most precious surviving example of Renaissance art in Hungary. In 1823, the chapel was meticulously disassembled into approximately 1,600 pieces and relocated to be integrated into the new basilica.
Interior and Notable Contents
The basilica houses a striking altarpiece by Girolamo Michelangelo Grigoletti, which measures 13.5 by 6.6 meters and depicts the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Cathedral Treasury, opened in 1886, preserves and displays liturgical instruments, including the "Matthias' Calvary," a 15th-century golden coronation cross. Pope John Paul II notably used the Suki chalice during his visit in 1991.
Beneath the main church lies a vast crypt constructed in an Old Egyptian style. This crypt serves as the final resting place for several archbishops, most notably József Mindszenty, a figure celebrated for his resistance to both Nazi and Communist regimes. The basilica also maintains the relics of Saint Marko Krizin, a Catholic martyr.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Basilica of Esztergom dedicated to?
The basilica is dedicated to the Assumption of Saint Mary and Saint Adalbert. It is also referred to as the Primatial Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Adalbert.
When was the current Basilica of Esztergom built?
The foundation stone for the current cathedral was laid on April 23, 1822. The upper church was completed and dedicated on August 31, 1856.
Who were the architects of the Basilica of Esztergom?
The initial architect was Pál Kühnel, followed by his nephew János Packh. After Packh's death, József Hild took charge of the construction, completing the building in Classicist style.
What are some notable features inside the Basilica of Esztergom?
Notable features include the large altarpiece depicting the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Cathedral Treasury with historical liturgical instruments, and the Bakócz Chapel, a significant example of Renaissance art.
Is the Basilica of Esztergom historically significant?
Yes, it is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Esztergom-Budapest and the seat of the Catholic Church in Hungary. It was built on the site of Hungary's first cathedral, and has undergone numerous historical events, including destruction and rebuilding.
Where is the Basilica of Esztergom located?
The basilica is located in Esztergom, Hungary, situated on Castle Hill. It is the largest church in the country.
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