An extension to a boat docked on the river Danube has proved a hugely popular entertainment and cultural hub. A38, a former Ukrainian freighter ship, was initially transformed into a multi-functional space in 2003. With ERDF-funding, an adjacent second unit was constructed in 2010 and has been a resounding success.
- 24 June 2015
The extended venue plays a significant role in the cultural life of the Hungarian capital, hosting electronic, rock, avant garde, jazz and folk concerts, movie screenings, exhibitions, cultural debates and presentations. The new body of the A38 ship also serves as an important transportation point as it is a ferry stop and a key part of the Hungarian public transport system.
Bauhaus style with panoramic windows
The original A38 proved too small when it was chosen to host events - a second vessel was therefore required. A38 2.0, a Bauhaus-style cube 11 metres wide and 46 metres long, is officially registered as a 'pinnace' or ship's boat. However its 200 square metre exhibition space and huge panoramic windows facing the river resemble the traditional Bauhaus villas in Budapest's second district. The design encourages visitors to literally feel the water, hear its sounds and smell its odour.
Outstanding facilities
The works involved the construction of an exhibition space, office, meeting room and archive area. The extension hosts a wide range of cultural events, from classical jazz and electronica to reggae and rock concerts. It also boasts outstanding facilities such as sound-proofed walls and cutting edge technical equipment.
In line with efforts to bring public transport on the Danube back to its former glory, the extension has also been equipped with a docking facility for boats.
Award winner
A38 has won both national and international awards. For example, the ship's restaurant and bar won the coveted title of Lonely Planet's “World's Best Bar” in 2012. It should also be noted that attendance to the A38 has increased by 15 % since the works were completed in 2011. Furthermore the ship was showcased as part of the ‘Open Days of EU-funded projects’ event series, which was organised by the Prime Minister’s Office on 30 March 2014.
Artemovsk 38 (A38) was initially designed to carry stone cargo. These days, Budapest's residents refer to it simply as “the ship”.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project extension of the “Cultural, tourism and institutional development of the A38 Ship” is EUR 1 259 101 of which the EU’s European Regional Development Fund is contributing EUR 909 553 from the Operational Programme “Central Hungary” for the 2007 to 2013 programming period.