On Üllői út in Budapest, the Museum of Applied Arts is as striking from outside as its collections are varied. Ödön Lechner’s Hungarian Secessionist building, completed in 1896, blends Hungarian folk motifs with Indian, Islamic and other Eastern influences. Look for the green and gold Zsolnay-tiled roof and the large dome. The collections include ceramics, glass, textiles, furniture and metalwork from Hungary and abroad. The main building has been undergoing renovation, so check current access before planning an indoor visit; the György Ráth Villa has shown works from the museum’s Art Nouveau collection.
Lechner’s Hungarian Secessionist design
Designed by Ödön Lechner and Gyula Pártos, the museum was built between 1893 and 1896. Its exterior combines Hungarian folk motifs with influences from Indian and Islamic architecture. Lechner sought a distinct Hungarian style, drawing on Eastern forms as well as local design.
The roof is covered with colorful Zsolnay ceramic tiles, and a large dome rises above the building. The patterned roof and ceramic details make the exterior a worthwhile stop even when the museum is closed.
Collections and access
The museum was founded by the Hungarian Parliament in 1872 to collect applied arts from Hungary and abroad, both historical and contemporary. Its holdings include ceramics, glassware, textiles, furniture and metalwork. Other collection highlights include European furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, Islamic objects dating from the 9th to 19th centuries, and works associated with the Esterházy collection.
The main building has been reported closed during renovation, and the supplied information does not establish its current access status. Check the museum website before visiting. The György Ráth Villa has hosted a permanent exhibition titled “Art Nouveau, a Hungarian Perspective,” featuring works from the museum’s Art Nouveau collection.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is the Museum of Applied Arts in Budapest open?
The main building has been reported closed during renovation, but the current access status is not established here. Check the museum website before your visit.
What is the Museum of Applied Arts known for?
It is known for Ödön Lechner’s Hungarian Secessionist building, including its green and gold Zsolnay-tiled roof, and for collections of decorative arts.
What can you see in the museum’s collections?
The collections include ceramics, glassware, textiles, furniture and metalwork, as well as European furniture and Islamic objects.
Where can you see the museum’s Art Nouveau collection?
The György Ráth Villa has hosted a permanent exhibition of Art Nouveau works from the Museum of Applied Arts collection. Check current access before going.
