First Journey Day 42: Folklore Fragments
Date: October 5, 2023
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Today in Budapest, Hungary—a city split by the Danube and stitched together by storied bridges—I walked the river’s edge. Partly cloudy skies and a crisp breeze set a gentle mood for tracing silhouettes and stonework as evening light pooled on the water.
Along the Danube
The Danube River, with its gentle flow and reflective waters, was the highlight of my day. The play of sunlight on the water, creating shimmering patterns, felt like nature’s own artwork.
Parliament and Castle in Conversation
As I walked along its banks, the iconic structures of Budapest—Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament—stood tall, narrating tales of the city’s rich history.
Artists on the Promenade
Local artists lined the promenade; their unique styles and interpretations of the city sparked fresh ways of seeing.
Sketching at Sunset
I paused by the river and sketched the city’s silhouette against the setting sun, letting the reflections guide my lines.
Stories in Stone and Water
The blend of history, architecture, and nature in Budapest is truly captivating. Today’s exploration was a gentle reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the stories every city holds within its walls.
Travel Notes
- Weather: Partly cloudy; high 18°C, low 10°C. Cool river breeze, soft golden light, and a calm, steady current catching flecks of sun.
- Scents: A hint of coffee from riverside cafés, clean autumn air, and the faint mineral scent of the river.
- Sounds: Tram bells in the distance, footsteps on the promenade, and the hush of water lapping at stone.
- Reflection: Sketching the skyline reminded me that simplicity—light, water, line—can hold entire histories.
Continue the Journey
You may enjoy yesterday’s quiet reflections in Cluj-Napoca, or linger with another moment from the same country in Budapest.
