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Open for 30 years now

Dear Guest,   The Royal Palace of Gödöllő opened its doors to visitors on 17 August 1996. Over the past 30 years, so much has happened: restorations; acquisitions of works of art; temporary exhibitions held in the Palace, across Hungary, and abroad; concerts and theatrical performances; weddings, gala dinners, and diplomatic events… In every respect, the Grassalkovich Palace Complex in Gödöllő has become a living palace of Hungarian culture, art, and spirit—an attractive hub for cultural and conference tourism—sought after on both international and domestic markets and operating as a viable, business-ready complex. I would like to thank all former and current employees of the Palace Company for filling these ornate walls and gardens with life and emotion—and for continuing to do so—through which this magnificent place truly becomes a place of service. I would also like to express my gratitude and appreciation to all our dear former visitors for viewing our exhibitions, attending our concerts and programs, or choosing our venue for their weddings and events. The 30th year in which the Palace has operated as a cultural institution open to the general public marks the opening of a new chapter in the life of this nearly 300-year-old building and its park. With the support of OTP Bank and the Government of Hungary, the largest-scale restoration and development project to date is about to begin. As a result, in a few years’ time we will finally be able to see this marvel in the heart of Hungary in a condition akin to how Queen Elisabeth—Sisi—once saw it. An exciting journey lies behind us, and an equally exciting one now begins together: we preserve the past, live the present, and build the future with you and for you. Dr. Tamás Ujváry Director

The complete renovation of the Royal Palace of Gödöllő may begin

The comprehensive renovation of the Royal Palace of Gödöllő is set to begin soon, thanks to a joint effort by the Hungarian State and OTP Bank. The rehabilitation program, estimated to cost around 40 billion forints and expected to span nine years, aims to restore the entire historic palace complex and its 26-hectare park to the state in which Queen Elisabeth (“Sisi”) once saw it from 1867 onward. The Hungarian State and OTP Bank Unite to Launch the Full Restoration of the Gödöllő Royal Palace Following the modernization works related to the preservation of cultural heritage, the site will become a world-class cultural venue, event center, tourist attraction, and visitor center. The agreement for the investment was signed in Gödöllő on October 13 by Viktor Orbán, Prime Minister of Hungary, and Sándor Csányi, Chairman of OTP Bank and of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences. A Historic Landmark with Deep Roots October 13, 2025 – Gödöllő. Construction of the Royal Palace of Gödöllő began after 1735, initiated by Count Antal Grassalkovich, one of the most prominent Hungarian nobles of the 18th century. Through decades of development, the building acquired its distinctive and highly representative layout, becoming a model of Central and Eastern European Baroque palace architecture. Notable guests included Maria Theresa, Sándor Petőfi, and Lajos Kossuth, while its most famous resident was Queen Elisabeth (Sisi). After World War II, the palace served as military barracks and later as a social care home—uses unworthy of its status, which led to its gradual decay. Partial restoration began in 1995, and a few rooms opened to the public in 1996. Though further developments followed, a full-scale, expert rehabilitation of the historic complex and park has yet to take place—until now. The Scope of the Renovation The new rehabilitation program includes the restoration of 6,000 square meters of severely deteriorated sections, as well as the modernization of 7,500 square meters of already restored heritage areas, including the main wing renovated thirty years ago. The 26-hectare palace park will also be renewed. The palace will receive a new heating system, air conditioning, and humidity control. In addition to refreshed spaces for families and tourists, it will gain modern educational, research, and restoration facilities. The complex’s event and hospitality capacity will be significantly expanded: the historic brewery will reopen, and the Musicians’ Wing—once home to the Grassalkovich family’s orchestra members—will host music masterclasses. Statements from the Leaders “The historical figures and events connected to the Royal Palace of Gödöllő are deeply intertwined with the birth and development of the Hungarian nation-state. It is therefore our duty to restore this building to its former glory, using the most advanced technologies available today. These walls have witnessed some of the most important chapters of our shared national story, and it is our task to preserve and retell them in a form that future generations can experience and learn from,” — said Viktor Orbán, Prime Minister of Hungary, at the signing ceremony in Gödöllő on October 13. The state–private partnership–based rehabilitation program, expected to last nine years, focuses equally on heritage preservation and value creation. Of the total 40 billion forint investment, OTP Bank will contribute 20 billion forints. At the event, Sándor Csányi, Chairman of OTP Bank and of the Foundation owning the Palace, said: “As Hungary’s leading bank, we must take part in major community projects that cannot be realized without significant private investment. OTP Bank’s involvement in the restoration of the Gödöllő Royal Palace reflects both our social role and our economic strength. Beyond its cultural and touristic significance, the project will also contribute to the development of the region and the growth of local enterprises.” A Living Cultural Hub Thanks to its European cultural ties, the Royal Palace of Gödöllő is already a vibrant and active tourist and cultural site. It remains one of Hungary’s most renowned attractions worldwide, particularly popular among visitors from Asia. In 2025, the palace and its events are expected to welcome around 350,000 visitors, while its park will attract 800,000–900,000 guests. The planned developments will significantly increase these numbers, ensuring the palace—and the region—continues to grow and thrive.

A. E. Köchert Jeweller to Emperor and Crown

Whatever became of Marie Antoinette’s pearls? How was bespoke jewellery commissioned? Who dared – and succeeded – to outshine Empress Zita? And what could exceed the value of even some of the finest diamonds? For all who are fascinated by the brilliance of fine jewels, a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits! Beginning on December 6th, the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, near Budapest in Hungary, will host a stunning exhibition devoted to the illustrious history of the House of Köchert. The masterpieces displayed will reveal stories of historic events, personal milestones and masterful artistry. Among the numerous treasures from imperial and international aristocratic collections is a magnificent brooch designed in the Neo-Renaissance style by Theophil von Hansen. Once owned by Empress Elisabeth, this piece will be shown to the public for the very first time. Jewellery design drawings from our extensive archives - many of them of museum calibre – bring to life a bygone age of glittering ball nights and grand weddings. With their rich detail, you can discover, for example, the fairy tale bridal jewellery of Archduchess Marie Valerie, the gifts from Empress Francis Joseph to Katharina Schratt, and several pieces that had vanished from the legendary Vitrine 13 of the Imperial and Royal Treasury following the collapse of the monarchy.