Budapest Unveiled: A Window into an Alternative Reality

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The "Sosemvolt Budapest" exhibition is a unique opportunity to explore the hidden architectural dreams of the Hungarian capital.  Through its captivating presentation, the exhibition encourages us to reflect on the past, envision the future, and appreciate the ever-evolving nature of our cities.

The “Sosemvolt Budapest” exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the forgotten dreams of the Hungarian capital’s architectural past. More than just a nostalgic journey through time, the exhibition serves as an inspiring time capsule, opening a door to the future.

Housed in the Pesti Vigadó, the exhibition showcases over 170 plans, models, photos, and videos, revealing a possible alternate reality of Budapest if history had taken a different course.

Not merely a wistful look back, the exhibition acts as a time capsule, providing insights into the social, cultural, economic, and political landscapes of bygone eras. The presented plans and visions accurately reflect the architectural trends, tastes, and technological possibilities of their respective times.

Highlights of the exhibition include:

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The utopian city visions of  Tálos Gyula: A prominent figure in early 20th-century Hungarian architecture, Tálos Gyula envisioned a bold future for Budapest. His designs on display depict a grandiose, modern city replete with monumental buildings, parks, and green spaces.

Istvánffy Mária’s rotating railway station: In the mid-20th century, a daring proposal emerged for a rotating railway station in Kelenföld. According to architect Istvánffy Mária’s plans, the station building could be rotated 360 degrees, allowing trains to depart in any direction.

Gregersen Hugó’s skyscraper designs: The interwar period saw a boom in skyscraper construction in Budapest. Gregersen Hugó, a renowned architect of the era, created several grandiose designs for skyscrapers that would have dominated the cityscape.

Nagy Tamás’ Regnum Marianum memorial: Tragically deceased architect Nagy Tamás’ last work was the design for the Regnum Marianum memorial. The monumental structure would have commemorated prominent figures in Hungarian history.

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The “Sosemvolt Budapest” exhibition is not just for architecture enthusiasts. It can be an inspiring experience for anyone curious about the past, the future, and the fascinating process of urban development.

Additional highlights of the exhibition: The Danube Promenade lined with high-rise buildings, A French skyscraper next to the Budapest Sports Arena, A 1950s vision for the Budapest metro, The world’s largest synagogue in Újlipótváros, Period architectural photos and models

The “Sosemvolt Budapest” exhibition is open until February 27, 2024, at the Pesti Vigadó.The exhibition is highly recommended for anyone interested in immersing themselves in Budapest’s captivating architectural past and alternative future.

For more information about the exhibition, please visit the website of the Hungarian Museum of Architecture and Documentation Centre for Monuments:

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[https://memmdk.hu/](https://memmdk.hu/)

For information about events organized in connection with the exhibition:

[https://www.jegy.hu/program/sosemvolt-budapest-153630](https://www.jegy.hu/program/sosemvolt-budapest-153630)

 

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