This luxurious concert hall stands right on the bank of the Danube, on the square of the same name, Vigadó. Balls and masquerades used to be held here, which is why it was called the «Redoute», which translates from German as «dance hall». One only has to let the imagination run free, and elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen in masks appear before your eyes, having stepped outside to catch their breath after dancing. And one cheerful little girl in a jester's cap has even climbed onto the embankment railing and is surely already plotting another prank. We mean the sculpture «The Little Princess» – beloved by all locals and tourists.
Vigadó Hall was built on the site of another one – a ballroom that was burned down during the uprising against the rule of the Habsburg dynasty. The best architects, sculptors, and painters were invited to build it. Thanks to them, today we can enjoy the magnificent facade of the building, its graceful sculptures, and the beautiful frescoes decorating the central vestibule. It is no coincidence that Vigadó Hall is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Budapest. And at night, when the lights come on, even casual passersby are left breathless by its appearance.
At moments like these, only the music is missing! Once, music by composers such as Brahms, Liszt, and Wagner was heard on the Vigadó stage. But concerts are not held here very often now; mostly exhibitions of contemporary art, various ceremonies, presentations, and award events take place here.
