History

Hungary became a Christian kingdom in A.D. 1000 and in the late Middle-Ages  served as a bulwark against the Ottoman Turkish expansion in Europe for several centuries. The kingdom eventually became part of the polyglot Austro-Hungarian Empire, which collapsed at the end of World War I. The country fell under Communist rule following World War II. In 1956, a revolt and an announced withdrawal from the Warsaw Pact resulted in a massive military intervention by Moscow. Under the leadership of Janos Kadar in 1968, Hungary began liberalizing its economy, introducing the so-called "Goulash Communism." Hungary held its first multiparty elections in 1990 and established a free market economy. It joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004.

Hungary has been a very popular tourist destination in the world in the past decade, with a capital regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. The country is home to the second largest thermal lake in the world (Lake Hévíz), the largest lake in Central-Europe (Lake Balaton), and the largest natural grassland (Alföld) in Europe.

Budapest boasts a rich and fascinating history as well as a diverse cultural heritage. Recognizing the unique value of its traditions the city has managed to preserve its magic and charm. The city straddles a gentle curve in the mighty river and is rightly known as the Queen of the Danube. Budapest is the heart, soul and living memory of Hungary, with the Danube coursing through its veins.

With its multifarious history and incredible architecture Hungary's capital has the justly deserved sobriquet of ’the Paris of Central-Europe', distinguished from other Hungarian and European cities by its beauty.