So, I finally made it to that cave church in Budapest, the one everyone talks about – Sziklatemplom, or officially, the Cave Church of Our Lady of the Rocks.
Getting there was a bit of a thing. I took the tram – I think it was number 47 or 49 – across the Liberty Bridge, which, by the way, is super cool to see up close. You get off right at the foot of Gellért Hill, and that’s where the fun begins.
See, I knew it was inside the hill, but I didn’t realize I’d actually have to climb a little. Nothing crazy, just a bunch of stairs leading up to this big, white entrance carved into the rock. Honestly, it looked like something out of a movie.
Went inside, and paid a few hundred forints for the ticket – totally worth it. It’s dark in there, obviously, but they’ve got these little lights that show off the different parts of the cave. You walk through these narrow passageways, and there are all these little alcoves and chapels.
- They had this one area with a replica of the Black Madonna of Częstochowa, which was pretty interesting.
- And there’s this bigger space where they actually hold mass. Can you imagine going to church in a cave? So wild.
I spent maybe an hour just wandering around, taking pictures, and soaking it all in. It’s just so different from any other church I’ve ever been to. It’s got this ancient, almost mystical vibe, you know? Like you’re stepping back in time.
What I did
Walked out of there feeling all zen and stuff. Then, since I was already on Gellért Hill, I decided to hike up to the Citadel at the top. That was a whole other adventure, let me tell you. But the views from up there? Unbeatable.
Figured I would share this adventure with you all. If you are ever in Budapest do not miss this! It is a unique experience.
