This bridge was the third to be constructed in Budapest and was originally called Franz Joseph Bridge after the Habsburg Emperor. Opened in 1896 as part of the Millennium celebrations, the design is elegant but simple and the bridge vies with the Chain bridge for the accolade of the most beautiful river crossing in Budapest. Elegant ironwork and the inclusion of several Turul birds (a mystical symbol in Magyar history) perched atop the bridge's pillars enhance its attractiveness all the more. After the destruction of all Budapest bridges in 1945 this was the first one to be rebuilt (1946) During rebuilding all it's decorative motifs were retained.