The Hungarian Parliament: A Symbol of Budapest

The Hungarian Parliament is one of the most famous buildings in Hungary. It is located in Budapest, the capital city, next to the beautiful Danube River. Every year, thousands of tourists visit this amazing place to learn about Hungary’s history and government.

The Parliament is the place where the country’s leaders meet to make important decisions and create laws. The building is very big and has more than 600 rooms! It is easy to recognize because of its tall dome and many white towers. At night, lights make the Parliament look even more beautiful from across the river.

Construction of the Parliament began in 1885, and it took 17 years to finish. The building was designed by Imre Steindl, a famous architect. He wanted it to look grand and special, so he used a style called neo-Gothic, which means it has pointed arches and detailed decorations.

Inside the Parliament, you can see many interesting things. There are statues, old flags, and even the Hungarian Crown Jewels. These are special objects that show the long history of the country. Sometimes, visitors can watch the politicians while they are working, but you must join a guided tour to see inside most parts of the building.

The Hungarian Parliament is not just a place for politics. It is also a symbol of the country’s past and present. Many Hungarians feel proud when they see this building because it represents their nation and its traditions.

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Bolded Words and Their Explanations

• Parliament – the group of people who make the country’s laws, or the building where they meet.
• dome – a round, curved roof on top of a building.
• architect – a person who designs buildings.
• Crown Jewels – special gold and jeweled objects, like a crown, that belong to the country.
• tour – a visit to a place where a guide shows you important things.

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Comprehension and Vocabulary Exercises

Comprehension Questions

1. What is the main idea of the text?
2. Where is the Hungarian Parliament located?
3. Who was the architect of the Parliament building?
4. What special objects can visitors see inside the Parliament?
5. When did the construction of the Parliament begin and how long did it take to finish?
6. What does the word “dome” mean in this text?
7. Why do many Hungarians feel proud of the Parliament building?

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True or False Statements

1. The Hungarian Parliament is next to the Danube River.
2. The building was finished in 10 years.
3. Visitors can see the Crown Jewels inside the Parliament.
4. The Parliament has more than 600 rooms.
5. The Parliament is only important for politics.

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Post-Reading Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever visited a famous building in your country? What was it like?
2. Would you like to see the Hungarian Parliament? Why or why not?
3. Why do you think countries have special buildings for their government?
4. What is something special or beautiful about your hometown?
5. If you could design a building, what would it look like?

Answer Key

Comprehension Questions

1. The main idea is to describe the Hungarian Parliament and why it is important.
2. It is located in Budapest, next to the Danube River.
3. Imre Steindl was the architect.
4. Visitors can see the Crown Jewels and other historical objects.
5. Construction began in 1885 and took 17 years to finish.
6. “Dome” means a round, curved roof on top of a building.
7. Because it is a symbol of their country and its traditions.

True or False Statements

1. True
2. False – The building was finished in 17 years.
3. True
4. True
5. False – The Parliament is also a symbol of the country’s past and present.