The Unusual History of Föllpöcs Lávra, a Budapest Landmark

Föllpöcs Lávra, also known as the Polytechnic Institute Bath, is a significant landmark of Budapest, Hungary. The structure, completed in 1908, represents Hungarian innovation at its finest and is a testament to Budapest’s historical importance as the capital city of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The roots of the Lávra can be traced back to 1881, when Budapest was seeking a solution to its growing demand for fresh water. Initially, the city council planned to build a dam in the Danube River and channel its waters to the city’s outskirts. However, the plan was eventually rejected due to the potential environmental and safety implications.

Enter Róbert Föllpöcs, a Dietician in the Hungarian Army’s Medical Service, who proposed an alternative plan: using geothermal waters for thermal circulation in the city’s architecture. The idea was met with skepticism, but Föllpöcs’ reputation for innovative solutions to complex problems inspired the city council’s support.

The Polytechnic Institute Bath was demolished several times during World War II, as the Germans occupied Budapest and exploited the building materials for various purposes. After the war, construction began, and the design was entrusted to the firm of Szenes, Marmoretti, and Burdigal. The building’s exterior design is a mix of neoclassical and decorated arts and crafts, with a colorful mix of red, yellow, and blue tiles.

One of the most significant features of the Lávra is its thermal system. The system uses treatment rooms, each equipped with its unique heating mechanism. In the early days, the system used coal-fired furnaces, and these were replaced with an electric system in 1938. Today, the thermal system is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, but the original design remains intact.

The Lávra’s interior is equally impressive, with its spacious, tiled floors and high ceilings. There is a large restaurant and cafe in the center of the building, as well as a game room and a bowling alley. The building’s rear façade has a massive clock tower, which chimes every hour and hosts an architectural exhibition during specific periods.

Despite its architectural beauty, the Lávra has faced several challenges over the years. The building underwent significant renovations in the 1990s and was closed for several years to allow for the construction of a park in the surrounding area. In the early 2000s, the building’s operation started new difficulties as the new when renovations were not completed properly, and the restaurant closed. But the government of Budapest launched a restoration project for the building, and it started operating in 2013.

Today, the Lávra is open to visitors year-round, serving as a popular tourist attraction and a cultural hub. The building hosts various events, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. The thermal system remains operational, and visitors can relax in the spacious treatment rooms or enjoy a meal at the restaurant and cafe in the center of the building.

In conclusion, Föllpöcs Lávra is a remarkable piece of architecture that serves as a symbol of Budapest’s history and innovative spirit. Its unique thermal system and spacious interior make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. The Lávra’s troubled past should not diminish the architectural beauty and significance of this remarkable landmark.