Budapest’s Museum of Fine Arts is opening a sweeping, more-than-a-millennium journey into ancient China, built around one of archaeology’s greatest icons: the Terracotta Army and the age of the First Emperor. The exhibition, titled Az öröklét őrei (Guardians of Eternity), explores the world revealed by the 20th century’s landmark discovery of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers guarding the emperor’s tomb, while widening the lens to daily life, beliefs, and material culture across more than half a millennium of Chinese history. Venue: 1146 Budapest, Dózsa György Road (Dózsa György út) 41.
Guided Tours and Dates
General guided tours run January 22–25, 2026, with additional dates on January 27; January 30–February 1; February 3; February 5–8; February 10; and February 12–15. Each tour lasts 60 minutes, caps at 18 people, and uses tour-guide audio devices. Arrive at least 20 minutes early at the Museum of Fine Arts. Pick up receivers and headsets in the Marble Hall; headsets are disinfected after each use. If you prefer to use your own earphones, let the staff know.
What You’ll See
The tour traces the world of Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor, and the craftsmanship behind his uniquely modeled terracotta soldiers. It delves into the structure of the empire, weaponry, court life, and the ritual landscape surrounding the imperial tombs of the Qin and Han dynasties. Through objects and expert commentary, visitors get a rare, close look at the traditions, religious practices, and everyday realities that shaped ancient China over centuries.
Tickets and Pricing
The program fee for the standard guided tour is 1,500 HUF per person, plus a valid exhibition ticket. For curator-led tours, a single combined ticket covers both entry and guiding: full price 8,300 HUF and discounted 4,900 HUF for visitors eligible for at least a 50% concession on exhibition entry. Converted estimates: 1,500 HUF ≈ 4.21 USD; 8,300 HUF ≈ 23.25 USD; 4,900 HUF ≈ 13.73 USD. Prices are approximate and may vary by exchange rate.
Curator-Led Highlights
Special curator tours of Az öröklét őrei (Guardians of Eternity) offer deep-dive narratives into one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological legacies. Presenters include Dr. Györgyi Fajcsák (curator) and Judit Bagi (co-curator). Dates: January 21 (4:15–5:15 pm) Dr. Fajcsák; January 28 Bagi; February 4 Dr. Fajcsák; February 18 Dr. Fajcsák; March 11 Dr. Fajcsák; March 18 Bagi; March 25 Dr. Fajcsák; April 1 Bagi.
Plan Your Visit
Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your time slot. Tours use audio devices; collect headsets in the Marble Hall. You may use your own earphones upon request. Additional public tour dates in Budapest: January 27–28; January 30–February 1; February 3–5, 8; February 10; February 12–15; February 17–18; March 11; March 18; March 25; April 1.
