Early 19th century Hungarian poet Mihály Vörösmarty was an author of plays and poetry, considered by his contemporaries to be a romanticist. However, he is best known for his patriotic lyrics and it is for that reason that his statue stands in a square in the middle of Budapest. His most notable works were his national epics, noted for their beautiful language, including Zalan's Flight (1825), Erlan (1825), and Two Neighboring Castles (1831).

The monument of Vörösmarty, erected in 1908, sits on a pedestal of 23 limestone blocks in the center of the square and is surrounded by figures representing various classes of society, including a farmer and peasant girl, people in traditional Magyar dress, a student, and a worker with his wife and young son.

About the Square
Vörösmarty Square is one of the busiest places in the downtown section of Budapest. This area is a hubbub of activity, boasting stores, airline offices, antique shops, and several other retailing establishments, one of the most popular being the long-established
Gerbeaud House
Luxus Department Store. It is also the start of the city's most famous shopping street, Váci Utca.

Another always-busy attractions on the square is the Gerbeaud House, a wonderful old-fashioned pastry shop owned by a Swiss family whose yummy delights have thrilled patrons for years. The cafe's traditions go all the way back to 1858. It's ornately decorated with marble tables and beautiful wall coverings and is large enough to hold about 300 customers at a time. Be sure to stop here for coffee and pastries!

On another side of the square, you'll find the Vigado or concert hall, built in 1859-64, based on the designs of Frigyes Feszl (1821-1884) and thought to be an excellent example of Hungarian Romantic architecture. The hall has played host to many of the world's most famous musical artists for more than a century.

A new building, housing a garage, shops and restaurants, offices, and luxury apartments recently opened on the square as well.