Here's a brief overview of its historical journey: Ancient Times: The area around Budapest has been inhabited since the Stone Age. Celtic and Roman settlements existed here, with the Romans establishing the town of Aquincum, which served as the capital of the province of Pannonia. Medieval Era: In the 9th century, the Magyars (Hungarian tribes) settled in the Carpathian Basin, founding the Kingdom of Hungary. Buda and Pest, the two cities that make up modern Budapest, developed separately during this time. Buda became the capital in the 14th century. Ottoman Rule: Budapest fell under Ottoman rule in the 16th century, leading to significant changes in architecture and culture. The Ottomans occupied the city for over 150 years. Habsburg Empire: In the late 17th century, the Habsburgs retook Buda, leading to a period of Austrian rule and the unification of Buda and Pest into one city. Here's a brief overview of its historical journey: Ancient Times: The area around Budapest has been inhabited since the Stone Age. Celtic and Roman settlements existed here, with the Romans establishing the town of Aquincum, which served as the capital of the province of Pannonia. Medieval Era: In the 9th century, the Magyars (Hungarian tribes) settled in the Carpathian Basin, founding the Kingdom of Hungary. Buda and Pest, the two cities that make up modern Budapest, developed separately during this time. Buda became the capital in the 14th century. Ottoman Rule: Budapest fell under Ottoman rule in the 16th century, leading to significant changes in architecture and culture. The Ottomans occupied the city for over 150 years. Habsburg Empire: In the late 17th century, the Habsburgs retook Buda, leading to a period of Austrian rule and the unification of Buda and Pest into one city. 19th Century and Hungarian Revolution: Budapest experienced rapid growth and modernization during the 19th century. The Hungarian Revolution of 1848-1849 aimed for independence from the Habsburgs but was ultimately suppressed. Austro-Hungarian Empire: Budapest flourished as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, becoming a cultural and economic center. Landmarks like the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle were constructed during this period. World War I and Treaty of Trianon: After World War I, Hungary lost significant territory under the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, leading to a smaller, landlocked country. World War II and Communist Era: Budapest suffered heavy damage during World War II, and the country came under Soviet influence after the war. Hungary became a communist state in 1949 and remained so until the late 20th century. Post-Communist Era: The fall of communism in 1989 brought about a transition to democracy and a market economy. Budapest has since experienced significant development and growth, becoming a thriving European capital. European Union and NATO: Hungary joined the European Union and NATO in the early 2000s, further integrating into the European community.