Medieval times are back and taking over the historical town of Visegrád, north of Budapest. The Visegrád International Royal Palace Fair, which started on Thursday and continues until Sunday, revisits the Middle Ages, bringing together activities from jousting to archery and historical dance and music.
As is tradition, the Hungarian King Károly – says the royal invitation – “will welcome the Czech king together with his son, the Moravian prince, the Polish king and their duellist valiants and fancy cortege”.
Visitors are welcome to take part in this revival experience but be forewarned; the streets tend to be fairly crowded and shade is hard to find.
And the revival goes beyond knights and jousting: chess, medieval ball games and royal wine tasting are among the activities. The Knight’s Septathlon is for anyone who wants to test their skills at throwing battlestars, running, archery, crossbow firing or even wrestling.
In the main street in front of the Royal Palace (Fõ utca) an exhibition of ancient professions is being held. In Fellegvár, there is an exhibition on the Sacred Crown and medieval siege weapons are on display. For children, a medieval playhouse is promoting handicraft activities.
More info: www.palotajatekok.hu (English program is from 2011 but useful information can still be found.)
Getting there
Visegrád International Royal Palace Fair until 8 July
By car: 46 kilometres north of downtown Budapest on highway 11. Takes a little over an hour.
By Volán bus: Buses depart hourly from the Újpest Városkapu vasútállomás in District XIII. The trip takes 75 minutes. www.volan.hu/en
