From my photos at Flickr Produced by Kayakman Media

The history of a city can be a small peak at national and regional history. Thus the Budapest History Museum (Budapesti Történeti Múzeum) is one of the best places to go for an understanding of not only Budapest's history, but also the entire Carpathian basin. Located off the back side of the Hungarian National Gallery on Castle Hill, this museum is easy to miss since it is off the beaten path. But there a four things you should not miss as you stroll through: The 3rd floor exhibit with its many historic maps of battle plans as well as weapons used in the liberation of Buda from the Trukish occupation. The statue area in the back end of the main floor has an outstanding collection of Roman and medieval-era pieces. The lowest level is actually part of the old palace and tucked away there is a chapel. And of course, as the museum sits on Castle Hill, the courtyard garden and tower (accessible only through the museum) give an amazing view.

The museum's collection consists mainly of artifacts dating back to the Middle Ages, found after WWII in the south wing of the Royal Palace. It also traces the history of Buda and Pest from pre-Roman to modern days. The temporary exhibit during our visit was on Maria Valeria, known as the "most beautiful empress of the world."

After you've seen all that you can of the three floors and the castle grounds above and below, you can stop for some refreshments at the little stand on the terrace outside the museum's entrance. Nothing spectacular, but as little of the museum is air-conditioned you may appreciate a cold drink.

Two things to note ... you'll be charged extra if you want to take pictures and as less than half of the descriptions are in English you may want to pay for the headphone tour set.

For more information visit their website: Budapest History Museum