At Szervita Square in central Budapest, Turkish Bank House is a 1906 landmark of Hungarian Secessionist architecture. Its glass-and-metal facade draws the eye with sculpted Medusa heads, projecting bay windows and a large mosaic high on the building. The mosaic shows the Virgin Mary among figures from Hungarian history, though its position can make details difficult to see from the pavement. Stop here to study the facade, then look around the square for more of Budapest’s Art Nouveau architecture.
A facade shaped by Secessionist design
Architects Henrik Böhm and Ármin Hegedüs designed the Turkish Bank House, also known as Török Bankház, in 1906. Its glass-and-metal facade belongs to the Hungarian Secessionist movement, with forms and patterns that also show French Art Nouveau influence.
Take time to look across the facade rather than focusing only on the upper mosaic. Sculpted Medusa heads and projecting bay windows add detail at different heights.
The mosaic above the square
The building’s upper gable holds its most prominent artwork: a mosaic by Miksa Róth, an Art Nouveau stained-glass artist. It depicts the Virgin Mary surrounded by figures from Hungarian history.
The artwork sits high above street level, so fine details may be difficult to see from the square. A photograph can help you examine it more closely.
FAQ
Where is Turkish Bank House?
It is on Szervita Square in central Budapest.
What should I look for on the facade?
Look for the upper mosaic, sculpted Medusa heads and bay windows.
Who designed Turkish Bank House?
Henrik Böhm and Ármin Hegedüs designed the building in 1906.
