Főszékesegyházi Kincstár

About the museum

The first exhibition of the treasury of the Esztergom cathedral was set up in the armoury opening off the dome space, where the reliquary exhibition is still shown today. The collection grew from objects formerly used in the cathedral, surviving pieces, the purchases of its founder and later donations. In the 19th century, purchases by Archbishop Simor János and the bequest of Bishop Ipolyi Arnold of Nagyvárad made it outstanding in quality.

The new permanent exhibition opened in 1987 on the first floor on the west side of the basilica. Since 2020, the goldsmith work and textiles used in church ceremonies have been displayed in modern showcases in air-conditioned rooms.

Among the oldest objects are a rock-crystal piece made in Metz in the 9th century and a Byzantine staurotheca from the early 13th century. The Archbishop of Esztergom had the right to anoint and crown the Hungarian kings, so the treasury also preserves goldsmith work and vestments used at coronations. The most valuable piece in the collection is the Mátyás-kálvária (Mátyás Calvary), made of around five kilograms of gold.

Highlights

• The Mátyás-kálvária, the most valuable goldwork in the collection
• The coronation oath cross and the pontifical regalia used at royal coronations
• 15th-century chalice with wire enamel
• Late Gothic horn goblets
• Medieval rock crystal and Byzantine staurotheca
• Baroque goldsmith work and vestments

Permanent exhibitions

• Főszékesegyházi Kincstár állandó kiállítása – Medieval and modern goldsmith work, coronation objects and church textiles, including the Mátyás-kálvária and the horn goblets.
• Caput, mater et magistra – a Bazilika építéstörténeti kiállítása – The history of the basilica’s construction, shown with the 1822 model, objects used at its consecration and a touchscreen information point.

Operated by

Esztergomi Főszékesegyház

Admission & discounts

According to the 2026 price list. Individual viewing of the liturgical space of the church is free of charge. Reduced admission can only be claimed on presentation of a document proving entitlement.

Accessibility

• Partially wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The treasury is on the first floor of the basilica and can be reached by lift or by stairs (about 60 steps). Six steps lead into the church nave; wheelchair users can ask for the entrance to be opened by calling +36 33 402 354. Strollers and large bags may not be taken into the exhibition rooms.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Stroller-friendly: not available

A walking sheet can be downloaded to explore the basilica in a playful way. Kindergartens and schools can book museum education sessions (HUF 800 per person). Strollers may not be taken into the exhibition rooms.

Getting there & parking

By car from Budapest along main road 11 via Visegrád, or along main road 10 via Dorog; from Párkány across the Mária Valéria bridge. From 1 May to 31 August a sightseeing boat departs daily from Vigadó tér in Budapest. By bicycle you can arrive on the EV6 cycle path and on Esztergom cycle path 2A.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Museum shop

Café in the Panorama Hall, a gift shop and a devotional goods shop, open with the basilica’s opening hours. Toilets by the car parks, in the south tower and on the level of the Panorama Hall.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit