What is it?
A poignant museum commemorating the victims of the fascist and communist regimes, open since 2002. The museum is housed at Number 60 Andrássy Avenue, which has lived many lives; notably when it was used to inspire fear as the headquarters of the secret police.
Is it worth visiting?
The museum spans four floors and contains a curious collection that blends installations with interactive screens that allow you to listen to first-hand accounts from survivors. The exhibition on the second floor takes you on an immersive, chronological journey from the Nazi era through communist rule. The most fascinating part of this museum is the basement, where the fascist Arrow Cross Party once interned political prisoners, but all of it is pretty fascinating.
Plus, it’s almost impossible to miss. Look up as you stroll down Andrássy Avenue and you’re immediately struck by its metallic panels with the word ‘terror’ cut out in huge letters. On ground level, meanwhile, portrait photographs in frames stare back at passersby from the drab stone walls.
Is the House of Terror free?
Sadly not, apart from on the first Sunday of every month, if you’re a citizen of the EEA (European Economic Area). Book a standard ticket or a guided tour to really get stuck into the history.
This review was fact-checked and updated in 2024.
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