Step inside one of Székesfehérvár’s (Székesfehérvár) newest and most dazzling exhibition spaces, where fragments of stonework from the medieval coronation church of the Kingdom of Hungary take center stage. The “Solium Regni – The Throne of the Nation” permanent exhibition brings the legacy of Hungary’s royal seat back to life, immersing visitors in an interior as breathtaking as the artifacts themselves. If you’re in town, missing it would be a crime.
The Royal Past Revealed
Székesfehérvár (Székesfehérvár) held the honored status of being the Kingdom of Hungary’s coronation city during the Middle Ages. This distinction stemmed from its royal throne—referred to in historic sources as the solium regni, or throne of the realm—originally set in the Basilica of the Virgin Mary (Nagyboldogasszony-bazilika), founded by Stephen I (Szent István), Hungary’s first king. In a significant move, Stephen also declared it the royal burial place. His canonization in 1083 elevated the church to the very heart of a national cult, turning it into the central burial ground for monarchs, the site of royal coronations, and the venue for major legislative gatherings.
Unraveling the Medieval Mystery
For the first time, the Solium Regni exhibition showcases an exceptionally rich array of finds from the medieval basilica, alongside the story of its ongoing archaeological research. Curators hope that as experts continue their work, these displays will expand, filled with new discoveries and clearer reconstructions of forgotten centuries.
The National Memorial Site’s Visitor Center is not just a gallery: it’s a research institute and a living museum, connected to Székesfehérvár’s (Székesfehérvár) most storied landmarks. This is where the city’s historical, social, geographical, and architectural importance comes to life. If you’re a history lover or simply someone who enjoys living legends, put Várkörút 32 (Várkörút 32) right at the top of your must-see list.
Plan Your Visit
“Solium Regni – The Throne of the Nation” can be found at Székesfehérvár (Székesfehérvár), Várkörút 32 (Várkörút 32). The exhibition is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am–6 pm.
Ticket prices:
– Adult ticket: $4
– Student/Senior ticket: $2
– Group adult ticket: $3 per person
– Group student ticket: $1.60 per person
– Family ticket (at least two, up to three children under 18, with one or two adults): $8
– Additional child ticket: $2
– Photography ticket: $1.40
The exhibition will be open during several periods through the end of 2025, including dates in July, August, September, October, November, and December. If you plan to visit Székesfehérvár (Székesfehérvár) during these months, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in this royal history.
Where to Stay
Székesfehérvár (Székesfehérvár) boasts an impressive selection of accommodations, from modern style to centuries-old elegance. The Castrum Hotel (Hotel Castrum), a four-star gem with 86 rooms near the city center and lakeside, offers a sleek, harmonious experience perfect for business travelers, tourists, or larger families. They pair thoughtfully designed interiors with a rich breakfast—and promise to exceed every expectation.
The Magyar Király Hotel (Hotel Magyar Király), the city’s oldest yet most recently opened four-star accommodation, stands in a nearly 200-year-old historic building. Guests have 79 rooms and four suites at their disposal, plus a conference hall for 400, a dividable event hall, an opulent throne room for special occasions, a bar, wine cellar, wellness facilities, underground garage, and a cozy restaurant. Overnight stays start from $15.
Closer to downtown, you’ll find hotels like the Platán Hotel (Hotel Platán), offering peace and a leafy setting just a short stroll from the main square. Each hotel offers a unique blend of comfort, from modern fitness and wellness zones, to distinctive rooms and family-friendly suites. Don’t miss the St. Gellért Hotel (Szent Gellért Hotel) for heritage lovers, the homey Vadászkürt Hotel (Hotel Vadászkürt) five minutes from the center, or the quirky Szárcsa Hotel (Hotel Szárcsa) for a retro escape featuring everything from saunas to a kids’ Xbox room.
Bite & Sip Like a Local
Feast in style in the “City of Kings.” Székesfehérvár’s (Székesfehérvár) culinary scene is relaxed yet refined. The Golden Apple Confectionery (Aranyalma Cukrászda) has been a local favorite since 2003, renowned for custom cakes, decadent pastries, and gluten- or dairy-free treats. The Mine Lake Tavern (Bányató Vendéglő), nestled in Old Hill (Öreghegy), is committed to reviving its legacy as a historic excursion spot with delicious food and attentive service.
Wine lovers, take note! Over 150 types of wine—60 available for tasting—plus craft beers, cheeses, artisan coffees, and soft drinks fill local shelves. With a wine expert on hand, special tastings and events are easily arranged for group gatherings both on and off site.
Enjoy modern bistro fare, a steak shop, or deli, or relax at one of the city’s many atmospheric cafes. At Mandala Cafe (Cafe Mandala), a chat and a special tea can feel almost therapeutic; Corvin Cafe (CorvinCafe) offers tranquility steps from the National Apple Monument (Országalma). Discover the new Silent Sitting Cafe & Deli (Csendes-ülős Cafe & Deli) downtown for fresh pastries and a chance to order cakes or floral arrangements.
For larger gatherings, the two-story Graphite Bistro (Grafit Bisztró) accommodates 160, including a Mediterranean garden. Dive into a varied menu—from seasonal Hungarian specialties to European inspirations—in a space that’s always evolving.
Final Notes
Exhibition dates and programs may change, so always check before heading out. But one thing is certain: whether you seek royal grandeur, medieval history, superb hotels, or unforgettable food, Székesfehérvár (Székesfehérvár) dazzles at every turn.
