The Buda Castle District

In April 2025 professional study visit initiated by INTBAU Austria and co-organized by INTBAU Hungary has taken place in Budapest. The event was designed to foster dialogue, professional exchange, and community building among members. The central theme of the day was an exploration of a significant architectural question within the Buda Castle District: “Revivalism or a New Traditional Architecture?” The highlight of the visit was an exclusive tour of the construction site of the Archduke Joseph Palace, currently undergoing reconstruction as part of the National Hauszmann Program. Commissioned by the Várkapitányság and executed by Magyar Építő Zrt., reconstruction works began in July 2021. The site was originally home to the Teleki Palace, erected in the late 18th century. This structure was extensively remodeled in 1906 by Archduke Joseph Karl, son of Palatine Joseph. The transformation, carried out in a historicist style based on the designs of Flóris Korb and Kálmán Giergl, resulted in a distinguished architectural landmark that sustained severe damage during World War II. Rather than being restored, the building was repurposed as workers’ accommodation from 1951, and due to ongoing neglect, it was ultimately demolished in 1968. The site remained vacant until 2021, when reconstruction commenced within the framework of the National Hauszmann Program. The Archduke Joseph Palace is now being faithfully rebuilt, along with its former Neo-Renaissance stable and the adjacent ornamental palace gardens. The reconstruction adheres closely to the original exterior design, while selected interior features—such as the grand staircase with its glass vault and the first-floor ballroom—are also being meticulously restored. Following the visit to the Archduke Joseph Palace, participants had the opportunity to tour the recently restored stables, which form an integral part of the historical ensemble. The day concluded with a shared meal at a traditional Hungarian restaurant, where the group enjoyed the finest offerings of Hungarian cuisine. The atmosphere was marked by rich conversation, mutual inspiration, and collective reflection. Every moment of the day was thoroughly enjoyed.