Photo of Margit híd (Margaret Bridge)

© Wanderyarns

Budapest

Margit híd (Margaret Bridge)

The bridge bends in the middle so that each half meets its branch of the river straight on; opened in 1876.

The story

Margit híd, or Margaret Bridge, is Budapest's second permanent bridge over the Danube, opened in 1876. Designed by Ernest Goüin, it's famous for its distinctive angled shape and a unique branch that gracefully curves directly to Margaret Island. It offers stunning panoramic views connecting the Buda Hills with the bustling Pest embankment, serving as a historic landmark and a path to tranquil urban nature.

The Two Destructions and Rebirth of Margaret Bridge

Margaret Bridge suffered its first major destruction at noon on November 4, 1944, with a 48-as tram visible on the bridge at the moment of the blast. This explosion was allegedly caused by a discarded cigarette butt, occurring as Germans had begun mining Budapest's Danube bridges due to the approaching Red Army. The bridge was not spared further destruction; in early 1945, when all Budapest bridges were destroyed, the remaining ruins of Margaret Bridge were also blown up. The bridge was later rebuilt, with a partial reopening on November 16, 1947, and a full reopening on August 1, 1948.

What do you want here?

  • Free to see from outside

On these tours

Photos