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Blogging partner Heather on Her Travels writes on Memento Park in Budapest. Although the fall of communism was quite sometime ago (1990), its legacy still reverberates in countries previously under its dark umbrella. A collective showcase may be the quickest way for the foreign visitor to appreciate the extent and implications of living in such a regime.
House of Terror Museum in Budapest, built in memory of the ones who suffered and died in the nazi and communist eras. Photo by infraredhorsebite
The presence of mementos in an open air park also permits a good degree of artistic expression and the depth of oppression to be felt by contrasting it with the beautiful open space. More poignantly, Memento Park contains many original and iconic communist statues. The design by the presenting architect Ákos Eleőd symbolises a road to nowhere (a bit like the 1985 song by Talking Heads, really).
The Park tour also demonstrates the propaganda fed to the youth of the time and the country’s then “liberty”, only (of course) achieved with the help of big Soviet brother. Park statues including ones of Lenin, Marx, Engels and even vicious Stalin’s boots should bring some memories to most visitors over 20!
Additional era mementos, such as a “hot” phone line with past leaders voices, a Trabant motor car and a film of secret agent training provide even more atmosphere.
Sounds like a very interesting and educational visit for all, relatively easily achieved by either bus or self driving from Budapest. Particularly if you’ve chosen Hungary either because it’s one of the cheapest destinations in Europe or Budapest as a top party spot and you’re looking for some contemplation and sobriety.
