The popular Sigismund's Festivities at Vígľaš Castle are back
A national cultural treasure in the heart of Slovakia, Vígľaš Castle offers its patrons a rich cultural program and high-quality services annually. In addition to standard accommodation, conference, and wedding packages, Vígľaš Castle also hosts traditional castle events.
The start of the new season was marked by the annual Easter Stay, during which both young and old had a wonderful time. The outdoor areas of the castle were filled with stalls featuring traditional crafts, later replaced by entertaining activities for all age groups. As a unique conclusion to the stay, there was a traditional Easter whipping event in collaboration with the Podpoľanec folklore ensemble.
The beginning of spring is marked by the preparations for Žigmund's Festivities. As many readers may know, Žigmund Luxemburg has an inseparable and close connection with Vígľaš Castle. This monarch was not only the King of Hungary but also the Holy Roman Emperor and later even the King of Bohemia. During his rule, alongside his wife Barbara of Cilli, Žigmund founded the Order of the Dragon, which played a significant role in defending the country against Turkish invasions. Vígľaš Castle became a meeting place for the members of the Order of the Dragon. Since Žigmund's name day is celebrated on May 2nd, the castle always organizes Žigmund's Festivities on the first Sunday of May in honor of this ruler. After two years marked by the pandemic, the gates will open once more. Drums will resound in the courtyard, and the forest will echo with the sounding of hunting horns.
The program during the event is indeed quite rich. We will begin with a ceremonial opening, which will be followed by an introductory promenade of performers and an archery tournament. Archery was not only a sport and entertainment but primarily served for hunting wild game, which was served at royal feasts. For Vígľaš Castle, as a former hunting residence, this activity was an integral part," says Tomáš Sokologorský, Director of the Grand Vígľaš Hotel.
Right after this opening program, the archery station will remain open to visitors, allowing them to experience the challenge of this seemingly simple craft. Not only well-trained archers but also birds of prey were used in hunting. The art of falconry will be demonstrated by a group of falconers from St. Bavon. Demonstrations of flights and training of birds of prey, as well as the opportunity to have photos taken with the birds, will be part of the program. Since a king needs to constantly replenish the ranks of his army, the royal general will take on this role and select young recruits from the visitors to teach them which way to turn on the command 'right face.' They will also learn how to wield a sword and have the chance to practice their skills in a friendly skirmish, even attempting to breach their parents' shield wall. For those who get hungry after their strenuous training, refreshments will be available. Young soldiers need to be well-fed to build their muscles!
However, royalty wasn't always just about weapons, battles, and hunting. At the court, the education of grace, patience, and courtly etiquette was also of great importance. The demonstration of how dances were once performed at the noble court will be accompanied by actual instruction and group dancing. We hope to get everyone who attends this event up and dancing. Before it concludes, guests will also be able to enjoy an entertaining fencing and theatrical performance that will fill the courtyard with laughter," added event manager Ing Diana Bérešová.
And as if all of this weren't enough, true entertainment comes not only from colors, scents, and flavors but also from the various handcrafted items made by skilled artisans and diligent hands. In the courtyard, you won't be short of soaps, jewelry, herbs, candles, wooden and leather products, decorations made from natural materials, or ceramics. Trinkets for beauty and for utility.
Although spring is slowly making its way outside, and winter is not entirely ready to relinquish its rule, we firmly believe that on May 7th, we will organize festivities that even King Žigmund Luxemburg himself would be proud of.
