In the years following Hungary gaining semi-autonomy in 1867, casinos opened across the capital, including this one in Buda in 1893. Designed by Imre Francsek, the casino occupied the first floor, with lounges, studies and games rooms leading off the ballroom.
There was a restaurant in the basement, and the ground floor first housed a beer hall, later a confectionery and then a café. From 1945 to 1989, it also hosted the district headquarters of the Hungarian Socialist Workers’ Party, the Young Communists, the Pioneers’ Association and the Workers’ Guard.
A significant part had been damaged or destroyed during World War II, including the tower and façade. While the frontage was restored according to the plans of László Lux in 1946, the tower was left out. Restoration has redressed this and recreated the casino’s pre-war appearance.
The modern-day designers also sought to create new spaces while remaining faithful to the original plans. Thanks to renovation, the first-floor ballroom and the main staircase will shine in their original splendour once more, while the covered inner courtyard can hosts events.
As the Sándor Márai Culture Centre, the former casino should be a significant showcase for the arts – when it will open, however, isn’t yet clear.
