The National Széchényi Library: guardian of Hungary’s literary heritage

The National Széchényi Library, named after Count Ferenc Széchényi, the father of István Széchényi, often referred to as “the greatest Hungarian,” stands as a bastion of Hungary’s cultural and literary heritage.

Founded on November 25, 1802, by Count Ferenc Széchényi, the library has been open to the public since 1803, offering an extensive collection that spans centuries.

Interesting facts about the Széchenyi Library

Covering a total area of 44,000 square meters, the library is one of the country’s largest public buildings, with an interior volume of 260,000 cubic meters. Its shelves extend over more than 75 kilometers, and books are moved with the help of an electronic transport system that runs for over one kilometer. This vast infrastructure supports the library’s mission to preserve and provide access to Hungary’s literary treasures.

A lesser-known aspect of the library is the legal deposit system, which obliges publishers to provide two free copies of their published works to the national library. This ensures that the library’s collection remains comprehensive and up-to-date with contemporary publications.

Currently, the library holds 10 million items, including more than 3 million books, 330,000 periodicals (newspapers), and over 1 million manuscripts. There are approximately 200,000 maps and 310,000 pictures and engravings. Additionally, the library houses around 3 million posters and flyers, reflecting Hungary’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.

Among its treasures is the first work printed in Hungary, the “Chronica Hungarorum,” which was printed and published in 1473. This valuable artifact highlights the library’s role in preserving rare and significant works.

The size of the library is evidenced by its seating capacity; it has two large and several smaller reading rooms that can accommodate up to 700 readers at once. Most of the works available here are for reference only and cannot be checked out for external use. This policy ensures that the materials remain accessible to all visitors while preserving their condition for future generations.

The National Széchényi Library, with its extensive collections and state-of-the-art facilities, remains a vital institution for researchers, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring Hungary’s rich literary and cultural heritage.

Ticket of the National Széchényi Library

The good news is that there is no general admission fee to enter the National Széchényi Library! You can visit freely and explore the building during their opening hours. However, there may be fees for specific services, like using a research room or attending a guided tour.

Opening hours of the library

The National Széchényi Library has different opening hours depending on the day of the week:

• Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday: Closed
• Sunday: Closed
• Monday: Closed

3 reasons why is it worth visiting the National Széchényi Library?

The National Széchényi Library houses an extensive collection of Hungarian literary and historical artifacts, including the first book ever printed in Hungary, the “Chronica Hungarorum” (1473). With over 10 million items, including books, periodicals, manuscripts, maps, posters, and engravings, the library is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Hungary’s rich cultural heritage.

Situated within the historic Buda Castle complex, the library itself is an architectural gem. The blend of the historic castle setting with the modern library facilities provides a unique atmosphere that enhances the experience of visiting and studying within its walls.

The library’s collection is continuously updated thanks to the legal deposit system, which ensures that two copies of every publication in Hungary are sent to the library. This makes the library an unparalleled resource for contemporary publications as well as historical documents.

Educational and research opportunities

For scholars, researchers, and students, the National Széchényi Library offers extensive research facilities and resources. The library’s vast archives and specialized collections make it a vital center for academic research in Hungarian studies and related fields.

The library frequently hosts exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events that showcase various aspects of Hungarian history, literature, and art. These events provide visitors with deeper insights and a more engaging experience.

Accessibility and visitor experience

Located in the Buda Castle District, visiting the National Széchényi Library can easily be combined with other attractions in the area, such as Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Royal Palace. This makes it a convenient and enriching stop on any tour of Budapest.

Do not miss the visit!

Visiting the National Széchényi Library is not only a worthwhile experience for those interested in literature and history but also for anyone who appreciates cultural exploration. Its vast and diverse collections, combined with its historical significance and modern facilities, make it a must-visit destination in Budapest.