#fishermen's bastion

[allthedesiredusernamesaretaken]

.... Woody in da house ...

[bearworkshq]

Coastal Harbor | Nestled behind sturdy walls of stone and brick, the harbor stands as a bastion of safety, shielding the townsfolk's ships from the wrath of the tempestuous sea. A bustling port of call for fishermen and adventurers alike, it offers a sanctuary to both those setting sail to uncharted realms and those returning with bountiful catches from the deep waters. Within this fortified haven, tales of bravery, camaraderie, and untold wonders are woven, beckoning all to find solace upon its welcoming shores or to embark on daring quests beyond the horizon.

30x40 | 100 ppi | 70 & 140 ppi versions available for free download on my Patreon or see what other maps I have to offer.

[jo-the-cosmic-being]

Aesthetic picture dump from my number 1 favorite city of all timeee!

✨Budapest✨

(Pictures are mine, they are from, in this order: Margit-bridge, Lánchíd from the Buda side, Fishermen’s bastion, Batthyány square, Astoria, IX. district Groupama Aréna, Margaret-island, XVIII. district Kossuth square, Parliament, The River Danube at night)

[budapestbug]

The Fisherman’s Bastion is, in all likelihood, one of the most visited attractions in Budapest. This is the place where locals and tourists come to enjoy the city views. But what is the history of Halaszbastya? Why is the bastion so decorative rather than defensive as bastions are? First let’s see the quick facts in the short history, and then the extended version for those who want to learn more. The Fisherman's Bastion was built between 1895 and 1902 as part of the series of developments that were to celebrate the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian state. Consequently, the Bastion was inspired by the architectural style of the early medieval times (Neo-Romanesque) approx. the year 1000, when the first Hungarian king started his rule. What is more, the 7 towers of the Halaszbastya features the 7 Hungarian chieftains who had led their tribes to the present day Hungary to settle down in 895, and the Statue of St Stephen (1906), the first Hungarian king (1000-1038). In short, it is a historical monument for the millennial Hungary. The architect of the Halaszbastya is Frigyes Schulek, who also restored and redesigned the Matthias Church (Church of Our Lady). The construction of the Fisherman’s Bastion is intertwined with the restoration of the church: its historical architectural style was also picked to suit the church redesigned in a later medieval style (Neo-Gothic). The T shaped Bastion arrangement was to embrace the church while enhancing its beauty, and also to connect the Castle hilltop with the Danube side settlement, Fishtown aka Watertown. The bastion was built as a viewing terrace with lookout towers on the base of a stretch of the castle walls (from the 17-18th century, built after the Buda Castle Siege). Rather than building sturdy thick stone walls, the intention was to present the locals with a communal panorama terrace, as the Buda Castle was no longer considered to be a military place. The romantic notion was to recall the old times, so Halaszbastya is often likened to a castle prop, which does not feel real. It was meant to be like a fairy tale, feel like history rather than be history. The ceremonial, wide stairs leading up to the Fishermen’s Bastion provide a dramatic entrance to the Castle Hill attractions and to the views of the Pest side sights. The stairway features further historical statues, from bottom to top: the Statue of John Hunyadi, the statue of St George Piercing the Dragon (the replica of the 15th century statue in Prague made by medieval Hungarian masters, the Kolozsvari Brothers), and the 10th century soldiers guarding the gate (at the top of the stairs, under the arch). The Bastion was damaged in WW2, but soon restored by the son of the architect. By the 1980s, the walls of the Bastion became grey due to the household fumes, and urban air pollution. Also, many of the statues were in neglect (losing limbs, crumbling face, etc.). Thank to the Castle District municipality – urging the state and the capital to contribute to the enormous restoration costs – Halaszbastya is fully restored now.

[returnofahsoka]

Hi Kam! Happy New Year :-) I found out the other day that I'm giving a paper at a conference this summer in Budapest. I apologise for reaching out like this, but you're the only person from Hungary I know, so I was wondering if you have any advice for someone who's never been to Budapest before. Is there anywhere you'd recommend going (especially for an archaeologist)? I'm not sure if I'll have time (or money) to travel outside the city, but I could possibly do a day trip. Sorry if this is a bother :-) - Em

hello and congrats to the conference!!

sorry it's taken me this long to answer but here we gooo

under readmore because it got long lmao

budapest is a truly great city for sightseeing and most things are within walking/reasonable public transport distance from each other so that's pretty cool

here are some sights i know are really worth checking out

buda vár (buda castle), the old royal castle on the hill, along with the mátyás templom (a church, i think it might be a basilica but i never learned the types of churches and at this point i'm too afraid to ask) and the halászbástya (fishermen's bastion)

idk i just love the sziklatemplom a lot (which is another church but it's inside a cave)

parliament (tbh i have never been inside but i guess it's pretty??)

dohány street synagouge (it's one of the biggest synagouges in the world i believe and it's just. gorgeous.)

városliget (a nice park)

hősök tere (heroes' square) that's like the most touristy place in budapest

idk what else. i'll look it up though until then

now for the archaeology part: museums!!

the hungarian national museum (includes archeological and more modern periods)

aquincum (the old roman town on which budapest was found) along with the budapest history museum (includes archaeology specifically within the city)

the museum of fine arts (fine arts + the ancient egyptian and antique collections)

museum of ethnography (it's opening in the summer so you might not be able to see this one, depending on the date of the conference)

the national gallery is also there (more paintings!)

things to do

walk around the city centre. i love it, especially in the spring/summer. just the streets and the houses and ahhhh i miss living there tbh

bathhouses!! they are super famous and also beautiful, i think one of them's been here since the turkish times

eat eat eat. hungarian food is lovely and very very homely. but there's street food and also sweets and like. they are all amazing. you gotta try them

other things to know

the airport bus is the best way to get to the city from the airport

you can buy a 24 hour or 72 hour public transport pass that lets you use everything within the city (including even boats)

day trips to other cities are pretty easy to do. trains are relatively cheap and the furthest you would have to go is like 3 hours i think?

we're part of the eu but our currency isn't euros. many stores accept them, and if you are paying by card then the currency isn't a problem anyway, but i'd recommend having some money bc you never know if the card reader is working/if they accept your foreign credit card/etc. our currency is huf (hungarian forint)

it's a 50/50 chance if the cashier in a store/restaurant will speak english or not. learn a couple basic phrases in hungarian just in case, and you're good to go (i'd be happy to help with that!)

if you are coming here in the summer, it's gonna be HOT. around 30 celsius at least. so be prepared for that

that's all for now, i'll let you know if i think of something else!!

[europeposts]

Budapest

Capital of Hungary

Budapest: Hungarian Parliament

Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is bisected by the River Danube. Its 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest. A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times onward. Trinity Square is home to 13th-century Matthias Church and the turrets of the Fishermen’s Bastion, which offer sweeping views. 

Neighborhoods: Újpest, Castle Hill, Józsefváros, Corvin-Negyed, MORE

Area code: 1

Elevation: Lowest (Danube) 96 m; Highest (János Hill) 527 m (315 to 1,729 ft)

HDI (2018): 0.901 – very high · 1st

International Airport: Ferenc Liszt International Airport

ISO 3166 code: HU-BU

Budapest - Wikipedia

Budapest, Hungary

[bm2ab]

Man's Impact on the Environment . 03 November 2024 . The Halászbástya . Fisherman's Bastion

The Halászbástya (Hungarian pronunciation: [ˈhɒlaːzbaːʃcɒ]) or Fisherman's Bastion is one of the best known historical monuments in Budapest, located near the Buda Castle, in the Várkerület (Buda Castle District). Since 1987, it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Várkerület District (Buda Castle District).

It offers a unique panorama of Budapest from its Neo-Romanesque lookout terraces. The Fisherman's Bastion's main façade, parallel to the Danube, is approximately 140 metres long, of which the southern aisle is about 40 metres long, the north is 65 metres long, and the ornate central parapet is 35 metres long. Its seven high-pitched stone towers symbolise the seven chieftains of the Hungarians who founded Hungary in 895.

The original walls were built in the 1700s, forming part of the walls of a castle. A consensus among historians is that in the Middle Ages this part of the castle wall was protected by the guild of fishermen (halász), who lived under the walls in the so-called Fishtown or Watertown. The current structure was built between 1895 and 1902, in Neo-Romanesque style, on the base of a stretch of the Buda Castle walls, by architect Frigyes Schulek, who was also responsible for the restoration.

[epostravel]

Experience the Unseen: Rethymno, Crete's Best-Kept Secrets

Nestled on the northern coast of Crete, Rethymno is a picturesque     town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. While many travelers flock to popular destinations like Chania and Heraklion, Rethymno offers unique charm and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This article will take you through Rethymno's best-kept secrets, from its quaint corners to its stunning natural landscapes.

The Venetian Harbor

One of Rethymno's most iconic features is its Venetian Harbor. While it might not be a secret to all, this charming waterfront area offers more than just scenic views. Early morning strolls along the harbor allow visitors to witness local fishermen at work and experience the serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive. The harbor is lined with traditional tavernas where you can enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the moored boats and the ancient lighthouse.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is a hidden treasure that showcases the region's rich history. Housed in a 19th-century building, once a Venetian monastery, the museum features an impressive collection of artifacts from the Minoan, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Exhibits include ancient pottery, sculptures, and jewelry, providing a comprehensive overview of Crete's past.

The Old Town’s Secret Alleys

Rethymno’s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys that offer a glimpse into the past. While the main squares and famous streets can be bustling, the authentic charm lies in exploring the lesser-known paths. Wander through these hidden alleys to discover charming cafes, artisan shops, and historical buildings. Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture mix creates a unique atmosphere perfect for leisurely exploration.

Preveli Beach

Preveli Beach, located about 35 kilometers south of Rethymno, is a natural paradise that remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. The beach is famous for its unique setting at the mouth of the Kourtaliotis River, which creates a lush palm forest that contrasts beautifully with the golden sand and turquoise sea. A walk through the palm forest to the beach offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded spots on the island.

Rethymno’s Hidden Villages

Visiting the surrounding villages is a must for those looking to experience authentic Cretan life. Places like Argyroupoli and Anogeia offer a glimpse into traditional Cretan culture. Argyroupoli is known for its beautiful springs and ancient Roman ruins, while Anogeia is renowned for its rich history and traditional weaving. These villages provide a slower pace of life and a chance to engage with locals in a way that more touristy areas cannot.

The Fortezza Castle

Perched on a hill overlooking Rethymno, the Fortezza Castle is an impressive fortress often overlooked by visitors who prefer the town’s more visible attractions. The castle dates back to the 16th century and offers stunning panoramic views of the town and the sea. Exploring its walls and bastions provides insight into the region's history and strategic significance. It’s an excellent spot for history enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet retreat with a view.

The Monastery of Arkadi

Located about 23 kilometers from Rethymno, the Monastery of Arkadi is a site of historical and spiritual significance. This 16th-century monastery is known for its role in the Cretan resistance against Ottoman rule. The architecture is a mix of Renaissance and Byzantine styles, and the site includes a small museum displaying artifacts from the monastery’s history. The serene setting and historical depth make it a meaningful visit.

The Hidden Gorges

Crete is renowned for its gorges, but Rethymno’s hidden gems include several lesser-known options. The Kourtaliotiko Gorge, for instance, is a dramatic and scenic location often bypassed by tourists. Its winding paths and rugged terrain make it a rewarding hike for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Additionally, the Selinou Gorge provides a beautiful trail through diverse flora and stunning rock formations.

Conclusion

Rethymno is more than just a beautiful coastal town; it’s a destination rich with hidden treasures that offer a deeper understanding of Crete’s cultural and natural heritage. From the tranquil Preveli Beach and the charming Old Town alleys to the historic Fortezza Castle and the serene Monastery of Arkadi, Rethymno’s best-kept secrets invite travelers to explore beyond the surface. Embracing these lesser-known spots enriches your travel experience and connects you with Crete's authentic spirit.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Rethymno?

The best time to visit Rethymno is from late spring to early autumn (May to October). The weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for exploring the town and its surrounding areas. Summer is peak tourist season, so visiting in late spring or early autumn can offer a more relaxed experience.

2. How do I get to Preveli Beach from Rethymno?

To reach Preveli Beach from Rethymno, you can drive south for about 35 kilometers. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively, local buses operate routes to the area, though schedules can vary. It’s advisable to check for bus timings in advance.

3. Are there guided tours available for the hidden villages around Rethymno?

Several local tour operators offer guided tours to the hidden villages around Rethymno. These tours often include transportation and a guide who provides insight into the history and culture of the areas visited. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

4. Is the Fortezza Castle accessible for visitors with mobility issues?

Fortezza Castle has some areas accessible to visitors with mobility issues, but the terrain can be uneven and steep in parts. It’s advisable to contact the site in advance to inquire about accessibility options and any available assistance.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Quora

[europeposts]

Budapest

Capital of Hungary

Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is bisected by the River Danube. Its 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest. A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times onward. Trinity Square is home to 13th-century Matthias Church and the turrets of the Fishermen’s Bastion, which offer sweeping views. 

Neighborhoods: Castle Hill, Újpest, Corvin-Negyed, City Park, MORE

Population: 1.756 million (2016) United Nations

Area code: 1

Elevation: Lowest (Danube) 96 m; Highest (János Hill) 527 m (315 to 1,729 ft)

HDI (2018): 0.901 – very high · 1st

International Airport: Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Budapest - Wikipedia

B u d a p e s t

[furlantravelfashionblogger]

Fisherman's Bastion: Budapest's Neo-Romanesque Terrace with Historic Charm 🇭🇺🏰🌆🌟

Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest is a breathtaking Neo-Romanesque terrace, constructed between 1895 and 1902 by Frigyes Schulek. Featuring seven towers symbolizing the seven Magyar tribes who founded Hungary, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Danube River, Margaret Island, and Pest.

Built on the site of medieval fortifications, its name honors the fishermen who once defended this part of the city walls. This blend of historical significance and architectural splendor makes Fisherman’s Bastion a must-see landmark in Budapest.

📸 https://www.instagram.com/peter.rajkai?igsh=d29sODc5aHR3OWlv

[pgarfa2024hluu]

60

Once I got home I planned an Architecture Study Boot Camp for myself! Meaning, for a week every day I went to draw famous monumens in our capital city, Budapest. I visited the Castle Vajdahunyad, the Fishermens' Bastion, walked next to the Danube and drew bridges and an interesting monument that I saw on my way...and even took a trip to an old metro station! It was fun, inspiring and mostly relaxing, it felt good to spend so much time with my sketchbook!

June 2023

[budabuddyfun]

Top Attractions in Budapest

Budapest has a wide range of attractions for tourists to go and visit I’ve listed a few favourites and will tell you a little about them.

Buda Castle

Buda Castle is a historic fortress complex located on Castle Hill in Budapest, Hungary. The castle's origins date back to the 13th century when a fortress was built on the hill by King Béla IV of Hungary. Over the centuries, it has been expanded, destroyed, and rebuilt multiple times.

The castle complex includes the Royal Palace, the Matthias Church, and the Fisherman's Bastion. The Royal Palace, at the heart of the complex, served as the residence of Hungarian kings for centuries. It houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, showcasing the country's art and history.

Buda Castle has faced destruction and reconstruction due to wars and occupations, but it remains a symbol of Budapest's rich history and architectural heritage. Today, it's not only a historical site but also a cultural hub, attracting visitors from around the world.

Fisherman’s Bastion

The Fisherman's Bastion is a picturesque terrace located on the Buda Castle Hill in Budapest, Hungary. Built between 1895 and 1902, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the Danube River, and the Pest side of Budapest.

The terrace is named after the medieval guild of fishermen who defended this stretch of the city walls during the Middle Ages.

One of the notable features of the Fisherman's Bastion is its white-stoned, decorative parapet with columns and statues, providing a fairy tale-like ambiance. The terrace is a popular destination not only for its architectural beauty but also for its panoramic views, especially towards the Hungarian Parliament building and the Pest side of the city.

Visitors can explore the bastion for free, but there is a fee to access the upper towers for an even more spectacular view. Whether during the day or illuminated at night, the Fisherman's Bastion stands as one of Budapest's iconic landmarks, offering a captivating experience for locals and tourists alike.

Thermal Baths

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and these rejuvenating havens are an integral part of the city's cultural and social scene. The thermal baths in Budapest are not just about relaxation; they also have a rich history dating back to the Roman era.

One of the most renowned thermal baths in Budapest is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, located in City Park. It's the largest medicinal bath in Europe, featuring a stunning neo-baroque architecture. The Széchenyi Bath has various indoor and outdoor pools with varying temperatures, as well as saunas and steam rooms. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a unique bathing experience.

Gellért Baths, situated in the Gellért Hotel, is another iconic thermal bath complex. The Art Nouveau style of the building adds to the charm of the baths. The Gellért Baths feature thermal pools, swimming pools, and additional services like massages and spa treatments.

Rudas Baths, with a history dating back to the 16th century during the time of the Ottoman Empire, is known for its Turkish-style dome and octagonal pool. It offers a traditional Turkish bathing experience with thermal pools of varying temperatures.

Budapest's thermal baths are not only places for relaxation but also cultural and social hubs. They provide a unique opportunity to soak in the city's history while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the thermal waters. Whether you're seeking relaxation, a social experience, or a taste of history, Budapest's thermal baths have something to offer for everyone.

Shoes on the Danube

 The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a poignant and moving memorial located on the banks of the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary. This memorial pays tribute to the victims of the Holocaust, specifically those who were shot and thrown into the river during World War II.

The memorial consists of 60 pairs of rusted iron shoes of various styles and sizes, representing the men, women, and children who were forced to remove their shoes before being shot at the edge of the river. The shoes are lined up along the riverbank, creating a somber and powerful visual impact.

It has become a symbol of Budapest's commitment to honouring the memory of those who lost their lives during one of the darkest periods in history.

[deanorosphoto]

FISHERMAN BASTION OVERLOOKING THE DANUBE, BUDAPEST HUNGARY.

Above: Fisherman Bastion is also known as the Hal·szb·stya.

Welcome back. I’ve been revisiting photographs I captured on my travels, including Hungary.  In an earlier post I shared another photograph from the same period, DOCKED CANOES IN THE HUNGARIAN COUNTRYSIDE.

THE PHOTOGRAPH.

FISHERMAN BASTION OVERLOOKING THE DANUBE, from 2003, was captured with a Nikon E5000 camera. An early model digital camera; it had a 5 megapixel sensor. By today's standards this is very small. I don't believe one can even purchase a new 5 megapixel anymore. As technology and my post production techniques improved over the years I've revisited my photographs of Hungary a couple of times. Subtle but beautiful changes in FISHERMAN BASTION OVERLOOKING THE DANUBE include the replacement of the sky and the addition of water blur. The image was captured through a glass window which helped create the red fringe / vignette on the bottom left side of the photograph. I chose to leave it because it sparks my memory.

HISTORY OF THE HAL·SZB·STYA.

The Hal·szb·stya is one of the best known monuments in Budapest. A fascinating attraction is its architecture and panoramic view of Budapest. Hungary as a whole has a remarkable history going back to the 9th century. It's reflected within its walls and architecture.

The original walls of the Fisherman Bastion were built in the 1700s, forming part of the walls of a castle. Historians note that in the Middle Ages this section of castle walls was protected by the guild of fishermen (halász), who lived under the walls in the so-called Fishtown or Watertown. The current structure was built between 1895 and 1902 by architect Frigyes Schulek, on a stretch of the Buda Castle wall's base. Between 1947-48, the son of Frigyes Schulek, J·nos Schulek, completed a restoration of the Matthias Church after its near destruction during World War II.

ORDER FINE ART PRINTS OF THIS PHOTOGRAPH.

FISHERMAN BASTION OVERLOOKING THE DANUBE is available with a gorgeous selection of photographic media to choose from. 

The studio recently installed a 12 ink printer capable of creating large (and small) custom fine-art prints. Custom print profiles and professional-grade photographic papers allow me to create pieces of art for you.

Order via DEANOROSPHOTO.COM or CONTACT ME. I’ll ensure you’re ordering exactly what you want.

SEE MORE DEAN OROS PHOTOGRAPHY.

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My photography is available as printed artwork in a variety of sizes and wall art options. I also accept private commissions. Feel free to inquire anytime.

artistry + documentary

See you next time.

[budapestbug]

Fishermen's Bastion Budapest

[7r0773r]

The Fawn by Magda Szabó

I have always distrusted good people. I never believed as a child that goodness came naturally. I always suspected that beneath it lay some sort of payment for services past or still to come. If Ambrus was kind enough to send us that leg of pork, it was only because I chopped the wood and picked up the pigswill for him, and the Turkish cake was simply compensation for Béla's sausage fingers and tin ear. My aunt hung gold and jewellery round my neck so that no-one could say a granddaughter of a Marton didn't even have a necklace. It was so much simpler to close the clasp on a necklace than to help my father, when a bit of money would have prolonged his life. When you first started to "take an interest" in me, and tried to find out not what my desires were but whether I had any desires at all, I watched and waited, I was waiting to see how it would turn out with you, and if it would prove to be with you as it was with everyone else — that you were evading some responsibility, or there was something you wanted from me, something you were paying for in advance, a seed you were planting, a score you were settling; the first presents you gave me, the ones I took from you with trembling hands and tears streaming from my eyes, that were thrown in the bin. When you first took me on that rainy evening to show me the view of the mountains in the fog, and we walked along the Fishermen's Bastion, I let you go on ahead so that I could follow a little way behind and pull my tongue out and make faces at you, like Puck. I hated you.

I remember when I caught the flu, it was the first time I'd had it in my life, and you sent a medical professor to me, one of your friends; I was at home, I had an apron on and blue ribbons in my hair, I was barefoot and wiping my hands on the apron when I opened the door, and my cheeks were burning with the fever — I must have looked like a servant raw from the country. I told him the lady actress had gone out and nobody in the house was sick and his journey had been wasted. Then I washed my feet, lay down, took a couple of aspirins and spent the day in bed reading the new play from Romania. I used to watch you talking to old Mr Szalay, you sitting in his porter's lodge listening to the stories he never stopped telling about what his grandson was up to, and looking at those dreadful snaps in which everyone is screwing up their eyes in the sun. I've seen you throw children's balls back up to the balcony for them, and lend money to Pipi, who, as everyone knows, never pays anything back.

In the early days I just laughed at you, and pulled faces at you as soon as the door closed behind you; I laughed at you for being such a "good" person, who always paid your way, and paid up before everyone else did; I wasn't the least interested in your goodness or your considerateness, I wanted something else from you. I didn't want you to "be good" to me, and certainly not that you should "really love me". That was out of the question. (pp. 94-96)

***

Something down there is shining. A ten-fillér coin. It must have been trodden into the ground and then washed clean by the rain; it has been flattened out and the inscription is barely visible — some child must have put it on a tramline. When I was little, children used to drill holes in coins like this and hang them on a cord round their necks; I always put mine aside to spend at the bakery: Csák bácsi had very poor eyesight. Angéla never learned how to handle money; even today she doesn't know the difference between the pengö and the forint.

Snow was falling outside the window; I was watching the flakes swirling around and not looking at you standing there with the bear's head on, and I was thinking that it had been just too hot in the orphanage the day before. You now felt able to leave Angéla, you said; you had needed all that time to be sure that she would still have a circle of friends around her, and the orphanage would be there for her as a kind of sustaining illusion, if you were to leave her permanently; those forty-eight children, the whole set-up and the work she so much loved would keep her together somehow, because she couldn’t survive on her own, and if she didn’t have someone to watch over her and love her and take care of her she would fall to pieces. I took the bears head back and put it on mine with my pigtails sticking out, I sat down on the carpet and gazed back at you; the snow was swirling around behind your head and I was sitting at your feet, in my trousers, with a red ribbon in my hair, and I had no face, it was a bear that stared back at you, a stupid, faithful bear, my eyes blazed through the chink in the mask but they told you nothing. They were looking at you the way a wild animal would.

"Angéla may know her ideology," I heard you say, inside the bear's head, "but she doesn't even know how to fill in an identity declaration." Every quarter you were the one who had to draw up a work schedule because she simply couldn't plan, and she couldn't do percentages and when the accounts came in at the end of the year you would have to carry on doing all that, both for the time being and ever afterwards, even long after we were married.

You were laushing and smoking a cigarette while you said this, you were talking about her as if she were a charming, incompetent baby: I kept nodding and growling, then I pulled the bear's paws back onto my fists; I was thinking that while I was down there bowing before you, supposedly clutching my paws to my heart in gratitude that you should ask me to be your wife, all I wanted was for her to fall into little pieces and disintegrate completely; I wanted her to have to find out how to fill in an identity declaration and make up the end of year accounts, and bring in the coal herself, and know what it is like to be hungry and to have to flee for your life — all those things the rest of us have had to deal with. I just wanted her to evaporate, and never to see her again.

You would of course have to call on her from time to time, you went on, to make sure she had brought the firewood in — she was quite capable of forgetting to do so; she might order enough fuel for the orphanage but without you there wouldn't be a shovelful of coal in the house when the winter came.

I tore off the mask so that you could see my face, and your expression changed instantly. "No," I said, and I began to gather up the things on the table. "Thank you very much but no, I prefer you as a lover."

You didn't kiss me again that evening, and you left shortly afterwards, much earlier than usual; I assumed that you had to do the accounts for the orphanage fair and write Angéla's report for her; she has never, in all her life, managed to fill in an official document.

Juli was still out in the garden, sweeping; I went out to join her, I tied her scarf round my waist, took the broom from her hand and started to sweep — I was sweeping away the tracks you had left along with the snow. Juli stood on the kitchen steps and watched the way I was handling the broom and singing as the snow fell all round me; she had seen from your face what I had said to you. She gaped at me for a short while, then went back into the kitchen, no longer able to stand the sight of me. I was thinking how utterly immoral you were, with your kindness and good heartedness: as vou made your way down the hill you were no doubt thinking how immoral I was too. (pp. 260-63)

[dream-world-universe]

Budapest

Capital of Hungary

Hungarian Parliament

Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is bisected by the River Danube. Its 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest. A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times onward. Trinity Square is home to 13th-century Matthias Church and the turrets of the Fishermen’s Bastion, which offer sweeping views. 

Neighborhoods: Újpest, Castle Hill, Corvin-Negyed, City Park, MORE

Population: 1.756 million (2016) United Nations

Area code: 1

Elevation: Lowest (Danube) 96 m; Highest (János Hill) 527 m (315 to 1,729 ft)

HDI (2018): 0.901 – very high · 1st

International Airport: Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Budapest - Wikipedia

Budapest, Hungary (by Bella Bo)