Which historic hotel has roots connecting it to the Freemasons? Mystery Hotel Budapest (1896) Budapest, Hungary

In the heart of Budapest’s Terézváros district stands a place that once held many secrets but is now one of the premier destinations in Budapest. Constructed in 1896, this architectural gem was built by the Hungarian Freemasons. But this was not just any building; it served as the original headquarters of the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Hungary, a society steeped in mystery and mystique. Mystery Hotel Budapest once echoed with their footsteps. Imagine dimly lit chambers, secret meetings, and closely guarded coded symbols, known only to the initiated.



The Freemasons were known for their clandestine rituals and enigmatic brotherhood. Freemasonry in Hungary traces its origins back centuries. The first Hungarian Freemasons were nobility in the court of Empress Maria Theresa in Vienna, who ruled over the vast Habsburg empire from 1740 until her passing in 1780. The earliest lodge in Hungary was founded in Brașov, Transylvania, in 1749 by Saxon inhabitants. Soon, lodges sprouted up in cities like Bratislava, as well as Buda and Pest (now Budapest). Until the end of the Hungarian Revolution of 1848-1849, Hungarian Freemasonry thrived, uniting 11,000 Freemasons across diverse lodges. After the Revolution, the Habsburg monarchy intensified efforts to suppress revolutionary elements, including Freemasonry. The authorities viewed secret societies with suspicion, and this put pressure on Masonic Lodges, but the Lodge continued to operate.

During World War I, the building transformed into a field hospital under Grand Lodge management. However, after the collapse of the Austria-Hungary Empire after World War I, Freemasonry declined. In 1920, the Hungarian Republic of Councils banned Masonic activities. During World War II, the building was once again used as a military hospital. The Freemasons did not regain access to the building until 1947, but their tenure was brief. The Hungarian Ministry of the Interior reclaimed the building until the fall of communism in the 1980s.

In 2019, the building underwent a metamorphosis, emerging as one of Hungary’s most exclusive vacation destinations: Mystery Hotel Budapest.



The hotel retains its original charm with marble floors, plush velvet furnishings, and antiques. The same Greek columns that once supported Masonic ideals now frame luxurious guestrooms and suites. Located on the fourth floor of the hotel, The Great Hall is not just a restaurant; it is the heart of the hotel. Guests are transported to an Egyptian-inspired setting complete with giant chandeliers, imposing columns, and heavy velvet curtains. Guests can imagine a secret passage hidden behind a tapestry (although this is not confirmed) while they sip on delightful cocktails or coffees. The central courtyard houses the Secret Garden Day Spa and is filled with greenery. The Day Spa includes saunas, treatment rooms, and a unique jacuzzi with a stunning view of the hotel’s full facade and crystal chandeliers.



The hotel’s artistic elements create a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere, making it a memorable place to stay. The Mystery Hotel Budapest features a reception area with a carpet that “climbs up the ceiling”, reminiscent of Aladdin’s magic carpet. The walls display interactive paintings where subjects move around, (thanks to cleverly placed screens). Each room showcases large paintings with modern twists, such as Johannes Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” holding a mobile phone, or Leonardo DaVinci’s “Mona Lisa” with sunglasses and a VIP pass.



Mystery Hotel Budapest’s central location invites exploration. Budapest’s iconic landmarks are within walking distance from this historic hotel— Parliament, Heroes’ Square, Andrássy út, and St. Stephen’s Basilica.