Chainbridge (Lánchíd) was the first permanent span across the Danube and was constructed between 1842 and 1849. Ten years earlier, in 1832, Count István Széchenyi began to organize its construction. While visiting London, he became personally acquainted with William and Adam Clark, the builders of the bridge over the River Thames.
Completion of the bridge sparked the economic revival that led to the Golden Century for Hungary. It was also a prominent factor that allowed the provincial towns of Pest and Budato combine into a fast-growing metropolis.
In 1989, people demonstrated on the chain bridge for freedom and independence. It has since rightly become a symbol of both Budapest and Hungarian liberty. The bridge, however, did not escape the perils of war. As they retreated, German troops blew up the bridge in January 1945. The bridge was restored on the 100th anniversary of its inauguration, in 1949. New floodlights were installed in 1999 to mark the 150th anniversary of the bridge.
The stately lions at either side are symbols of strength and fortitude. Views of Pest from the bridge are spectacular, and the bridge is best traveled on foot. Bring plenty of film to takes lots of photographs as you cross the bridge on your way to the Buda castle district.