Arpad Bridge, Budapest

Árpád Bridge (Árpád híd) is the most northern bridge out of 8 other ones in Budapest. Architecturally this rich Hungarian capital is divided into two parts: lowland Pest and hilly Buda. Every each one of the eight bridges that connect these parts is beautiful in its own way. Árpád Bridge is no exception as it is the main feature of the city.

Historical figure

Árpád was a Hungarian leader, chief of 7 tribes at the time. He ruled for approximately 18 years, from 889 till 907. In 896 precisely under his leadership the Magyar tribes crossed the Carpathian Mountains and settled in the area where their descendants live now. Árpád became the first Magyar ruler as well as the founder of the Hungarian state. Árpád dynasty took its origins from him as well.

The history of the bridge

At the beginning of the 20th century, rapid development of industry resulted in a strong need to build new bridges over the Danube. It was decided in 1908 to create a crossing between Obuda and Angyalföld neighborhoods. However due to World War I the idea was not implemented. When the war came to an end bridge in the south was constructed. Then in 1930, a contest for the best future bridge design was announced. The construction began a little bit later because of Danube’s width in this area. Margaret Island even had to be extended by 130 meters for the bridge piers. The construction works led by Károly Széchy and Pál Sávoly started in 1939 in accordance with János Kossalka’s design. Bridge span was 103 meters long which at the time was the biggest value in the world. In 1943 the construction works stopped due to World War II and resumed only in 1948.

An opening ceremony for Stalin Bridge was held on 7 November 1950. Yes, it was decided to name it differently. Due to hurry it turned out more narrow (13 meters instead of 27,6) than intended and now was only 562 meters long. In 1958 the bridge gained back its original name that honored Arpad. Soon it became clear that this crossing had failed to perform its function. However then, in 1981–1984 it was rebuilt, broadened out and modernized.

Árpád Bridge today

• Length – 928 meters.
• Width – 35,4 meters.
• Sidewalk width – 3 meters.
• 150 000 cars cross the bridge every day.

After the broadening, it is now split up into three bridges that share the same road surface and piers. There are six lanes, 3 in each direction, two tramway track and two bike lanes.

How to get

Árpád Bridge adjoins the northern end of Margaret Island (you can use ramps to get there). Also by crossing the bridge, you can get to Victor Vasarely Museum and Obuda Museum. Trams 1, 17, 19, 41, as well as buses 26, 34, 106, 901, 918, go through Árpád Bridge.