Museum of Applied Arts (Iparmuvészeti Múzeum) Tours and Activities

Budapest’s Museum of Applied Arts (Iparmuvészeti Múzeum), which features the country’s unique handicrafts and industrial design, is the third oldest of its kind in the world. Founded by the Hungarian Parliament in the 19th century, it has since collected both historic and contemporary applied art from around the globe. There’s also an extensive collection of works specifically from Hungarian artists.

Pieces on display have been acquired at World’s Fairs and by dealers, as well as accepted as gifts of the state. Of particular note is the museum’s Collections and Treasures permanent exhibit and the Esterházy Treasury: the gold, silverware, costumes, jewelry and weaponry collected by one of Hungary’s most wealthy aristocratic families.

The museum’s ceramic facade is impressive in itself, with its bright green roof and Art Nouveau architectural design. Its interior blends Islamic, Hindu, and Mogul designs and includes a stately library that’s also worth seeing.