Statue of Saint Stephen

Budapest,Statue of Saint StephenHungary
Statue of Saint Stephen
Jezsuita lépcső 1-3, 1011, Budapest, Hungary
The Statue of Saint Stephen in Budapest is a monument to Hungary's first king, a significant figure in the nation's history. The statue was created by sculptor Alajos Stróbl to commemorate the millennium of the Hungarian state. Stróbl worked on it for ten years.

Saint Stephen

Saint Stephen, or Stephen I, was the first king of Hungary, reigning from about 1000 or 1001 until his death in 1038. He is credited with founding the Christian state of Hungary, converting the Magyar people to Christianity, and establishing the structures of the state and church. Saint Stephen was canonized on August 20, 1083, by Pope Gregory VII, and he is one of the most prominent saints in Hungarian Catholic tradition. His feast day, celebrated on August 20th, is also a national holiday known as St. Stephen's Day in Hungary, featuring festivities and a famous fireworks display.

Monument

The monument features a low parapet surrounding it. The pedestal, which supports the bronze statue, is adorned with bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the king's life. Saint Stephen is portrayed sitting astride a horse, majestically surveying his realm. In his right hand, he holds a double cross, symbolizing his authority and religious devotion.