The most impressive building in
Ráckeve is this restored Baroque palace. Construction that began in 1702 lasted for nearly two decades. This work of Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt was the first Hungarian treasure of world-class Baroque architecture.
This palace, with its particularly exciting vibrancy, is unique. Details of the facade reflect Italian influence. The building encloses an intimate inner courtyard with protected trees. The re-planting of the ornamental park behind the palace is underway.
The wooden tiles used originally on the cupola were replaced with copper sheeting. Statues of figures from mythology stand on the balustrade of the terrace in front of the cupola. The central figure allegedly portrays the erector himself, Prince Eugen of Savoy (Savoyai Jenő in Hungarian). The prince's coat of arms is found above the balustrade.
The side-wings facing the Danube were closed off by stables in 1750. Today, the glassed-in driveway serves as an entrance hall to the formal salons. The side-wings are now guest rooms, while the kitchen and restaurant have been moved into the basement.
After the death of the Prince in 1736, the estate became crown property. The palace had already lost its original function by the 19th century and served as a storehouse and granary and by the 1960's it was feared that it would collapse. The restoration that began in the 1970's had to rely on analogy and remaining elements as the original plans were missing. Today is a
hotel and the elegant interior is a venue for conferences and other events.
Source:
www.hungarystartshere.com
