The renovation of the Esztergom Basilica started in 2018. The planned year of completion was 2024, but work is expected to drag on.
The first cathedral of the Archdiocese of Esztergom, founded in 1001, was built in 10 years during the time of King St. Stephen on the top of Castle Hill. In the centuries of the Middle Ages, the church had to be renovated several times due to fire or siege damages. Expansions and modifications have not been left behind. The first plans of the building standing today date back to the 18th century, but in fact between 1820 and 1886 it took the persistent commission of four archbishops to realize it. Conservation was a continuous task, it also provided work for the pastors of later ages. Architects and professional contractors were given work in particular by the elimination of the damage caused by World War II, then by the continuous waterlogging due to the peculiarities of the site and the natural aging of building materials.
With the significant support of the Hungarian state, planning started in 2018. The successive steps of the phased process are closely interrelated, yet they form larger, distinct units. According to the strict schedule, the first general architectural, art historical and restoration survey was followed by the assignment of subtasks that could be implemented in 1-2 years. The first phase, the renovation of the eastern façade and the imposing portico has already been completed. Simultaneously with the construction, tthe design of the next phase, the renovation of the dome, was carried out with the involvement of the necessary monument designers and experts. From autumn 2020, the contractors have been working on this part of the building as well. The exterior and interior reconstruction of the dome was completed in February 2024 with the lowering of the inner scaffolding. In addition, four more windows need to be restored during 2024.
Currently, the exterior and interior renovation of the two bell towers is underway. The south tower has long been open to tourists. The rethinking of the function that can accommodate the public, especially the one providing walkway to the dome, will create a modern, visitor-friendly environment while preserving its original state. The furnishing of the north tower will enable the performance of permanent, administrative, financial and community tasks related to the life of the church.
The large organ was torn down in autumn 2022 and restoration began at an external location. Reconstruction will take years to complete.
In the first months of 2023, the restoration and replacement of stone flooring in the interior will begin. The works, which involved partial closure of the interior in different areas and high dust loads, were completed by Easter 2024. The new altar was consecrated by Cardinal Péter Erdő, primate and archbishop on April 14, 2024.
On this day, the Archbishop blessed the Panorama Café and the related exhibition space. The renovation of the Panorama Café was realized through the investment of the Basilica and the Treasury.
From February 2024, the old tombstones of the crypt will be restored on site.
The exterior facades of the basilica and the fine art works of the interiors are also waiting for renewal.
