Chain Bridge Candelabras and Handicraft Traditions

One of Budapest's most recognizable symbols, the Chain Bridge is not only a defining feature of the city's skyline, but also a symbol of Hungarian history and engineering achievement. Two of the iconic candelabras replaced during the recent renovation of the bridge have been given a fitting place at Liszt Ferenc International Airport, where they commemorate the history of the capital in a space dedicated to Hungarian culture. But how does all this relate to Hungarian folk art and craft traditions?

The cityscape of Budapest is inseparable from its bridges over the Danube, which are not only architectural marvels but also witnesses of Hungarian history. The Chain Bridge, which has become a symbol of the city since its opening in 1849, is one of them. In its more than 170-year history, the bridge has undergone many changes, most recently undergoing a complete renovation between 2021 and 2023. This revealed that the bridge's iconic candelabras were in such a poor state of repair that they needed to be replaced. However, the original luminaires, dating from 1947, were not lost: they were auctioned off and two of them were professionally restored and given a new lease of life in a special location. They can now be found at the Hungarian capital’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport where the past meets the present.

Pieces of history and art
A gift shop dedicated to the presentation of Hungarian culture and folk art has created a worthy place for the historical candelabras, so that they can be a lasting experience for foreign visitors. Hungarian handicrafts and folk art are known worldwide and include crafts that span generations in different parts of the country. Embroidery, pottery, carved wood products and traditional textiles are all part of Hungarian culture. A souvenir is not only a souvenir, but also a piece of history and art. The souvenir shop at the airport aims to bring this rich heritage closer to travelers, bridging the gap between past and present, while also showcasing the beauty of Hungarian craft traditions and the creations of modern Hungarian designers and fashion designers to travelers from all over the world.

Memories of Hungary at the airport
Keeping Hungarian history and craft traditions alive is not just a celebration of the past, but a constantly evolving, modern initiative that connects old crafts with the experiences of today's travelers. The newly opened airport shop offers a special experience for those who want to return home with a piece of Hungary. The meeting of culture, heritage and modern shopping experience is what makes Memories of Hungary shops unique – a place that bridges past and present, local traditions and global interest.

The candelabra
The four sides of the candelabra feature the so-called Kossuth Coat of Arms (referring to the name of the Hungarian statesman Lajos Kossuth) and the Hungarian Holy Crown.
The candelabra was produced by the Ironworks and Machine Works NV (National Company).

The Chain Bridge
Total length of the bridge: 375 meters
Maximum span: 203 meters
Bridge material: stone, iron
Construction start date: 1840
Date of inauguration: November 20, 1849
Architect: William Tierney Clark