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Esztergom is one of Hungary’s oldest and most historically significant towns, located along the Danube River just an hour north of Budapest. It was the country’s royal capital during the Middle Ages and the birthplace of its first king, Saint Stephen. Today, visitors are drawn to the Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary. Its dome rises over 70 meters high and offers panoramic views of the river, the surrounding hills, and neighboring Slovakia across the Mária Valéria Bridge. Inside, the basilica houses a crypt, the country's largest organ, and a Renaissance altarpiece that took 13 years to complete.
Esztergom also connects strongly to the Danube, which not only defines the city’s geography but also shapes its local life. The riverfront promenade is lined with cafes and walking paths, and in summer, boats from Budapest dock here daily. A small island just offshore, known as Prímás-sziget, offers a quiet space for cycling and riverside picnics. Kayaking and boat tours are available for those looking to explore the Danube Bend from the water. In the evening, the basilica is illuminated and reflects off the river, a view that has inspired painters, poets, and visitors for centuries.