In the western courtyard of Buda Castle, the Fountain of King Matthias (Mátyás kútja) brings a Hungarian legend to life in bronze and stone. Alajos Stróbl created the Neo-Baroque group in 1904, with King Matthias Corvinus at the center of a hunting party that includes hounds, a stag, the chronicler Galeotto Marzio and Ilonka, the young woman in the tale. Look closely at the figures and their expressions, then continue to the Royal Palace, Matthias Church or Fisherman’s Bastion on Castle Hill. Entry is free.
A royal hunting scene
The fountain stands in the western courtyard of Buda Castle, also known as the Hunyadi Court. Sculptor Alajos Stróbl created it in 1904. Its Neo-Baroque composition shows King Matthias Corvinus with a hunting party, bringing together royal history and a story drawn from Hungarian folklore.
The king is surrounded by hounds and a stag. Galeotto Marzio, the Italian chronicler, appears with a hawk, while Ilonka is shown with a doe. The figures rise among rocks above a basin. The stag was modeled on an animal that died in 1896 in a forest owned by Stróbl.
The legend of Ilonka
The fountain tells a romanticized tale about Matthias and Ilonka, a young woman he meets while traveling in disguise. During a hunt, the king asks for shelter without disclosing who he is and falls in love with his host’s daughter. He invites her to visit him in Buda.
When Ilonka later reaches the city, she sees Matthias return in a grand procession and recognizes the hunter she loves as the king. The story gives the hunting scene its emotional thread. The fountain’s figures connect the legend to Matthias’s place in Hungarian history and folklore.
A stop on Castle Hill
The fountain is a courtyard landmark within the Buda Castle area, where the Royal Palace, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion are also among the main sights. Its courtyard setting makes it easy to include in a Castle Hill walk.
The sculpture was damaged during wartime and later restored. It is freely accessible, and the courtyard can be visited at any time. The fountain’s water does not always run, so the stone and sculptural details remain the focus even when the basin is dry.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is the Fountain of King Matthias free to visit?
Yes. The fountain is freely accessible in the Buda Castle courtyard.
Where is the Fountain of King Matthias?
It is in the western courtyard of Buda Castle, in Budapest.
Who made the Fountain of King Matthias?
Sculptor Alajos Stróbl created it in 1904.
How long should I spend at the fountain?
Allow about 15 to 30 minutes to see the figures and take in the legend.
Does the fountain always have water?
No. Water may not be flowing during maintenance, so check the basin when you visit.
