Ruin bar
Bar in a formerly abandoned building
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ruin bars or ruin pubs are bars that were former abandoned buildings and now are an integral part of Budapest's nightlife.[1][2] These establishments are generally found in Budapest's Jewish Quarter.[1]
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The very first ruin bar claimed to be opened in 1999.[3] However, the rise of ruin bars started in the early 2000s, and Szimpla Kert is widely considered to be the first pioneer.[1] During that time, the inner part of VII District had many abandoned buildings especially in the historic Jewish Quarter.[2] The very first venue opened on Kertész utca in 2002.[2] In 2004, the concept increased in popularity when Ábel Zsendovits and his friends turned a condemned building complex on Kazinczy Street into a ruin bar.[2] It started as an experimental bar with affordable drinks and bohemian ambience.[2] It led to other ruin bars being opened, which had their own ambience and focus.[2]
Ruin bars provide a relaxed environment for enjoying drinks, food, and dancing.[1] They also often embrace the natural decay of their buildings, incorporating quirky furnishings and decor.[1] These venues are appreciated by patrons of all ages.[1] In addition to nighttime activities, ruin bars also serve as community hubs and live music venues during the day.[1] They have become a significant tourist attraction to Budapest.[2]