Bled Summer: Medieval journey in Bled Castle

Bled Castle: straight out of a fairytale

‍Bled Castle is one of the most famous locations in not just the country of Slovenia but in Europe. The castle has existed for over 1000 years and it is truly a sight to behold. The castle stands on top of a cliff overlooking a beautiful lake. The castle and its surrounding area has been a cultural linchpin for Central Europe for many years. Visitors that have the pleasure of exploring the castle are also treated to a panoramic view of the Julian Alps. The mountains surround the entire area, creating a truly fairy-tale-like experience for any traveler who decides to visit.

Visiting Bled Castle is a rich and immersive experience. The castle is filled with various locations that transport each visitor into a far away past. But there is a special event that happens every year that really deepens that connection to the past. Each year, the castle transforms into a vibrant stage for medieval reenactments, jousting duels, live traditional music, and artisan craft showcases. This event is called the Medieval Days and it is a perfect intro for the summer season at Lake Bled.

It's an event where past, present, and future come together through a series of cultural performances that welcome visitors of all ages. These annual festivities create a living story, connecting modern generations with the cultural heritage of the past. 

Medieval Journey: A blast from the past

Each year, people from around the world come together at Bled Castle to experience a taste of the Middle Ages. The week-long event draws fans of medieval history and culture who gather to enjoy a mix of entertainment, learning, and tradition. Visitors can try their hand at archery, take sword-fighting lessons, or join in medieval games and workshops.

The live reenactments that showcase the energetic battles of the medieval ages capture the attention of every visitor. Suits of armor, period clothing, and old weaponry are displayed throughout the castle, offering a close-up look at the craftsmanship of the time. It very much feels like walking through a medieval market, just without any worry of catching some old sickness. Artisans demonstrate age-old skills like blacksmithing, weaving, and pottery, creating an exciting scene. If you ever wanted to pick up an ancient sword and swing it around for a bit, this is the place for you. 

With all that physical activity, visitors are bound to get hungry. Food and drinks are part of the experience too. Guests can enjoy roasted meats, stews, fresh bread, and traditional drinks, all inspired by recipes from centuries ago. Music and dance add to the atmosphere, with performers in costume playing historic instruments and bringing medieval rhythms to life. 

Couples that are looking for a really unique setting to mark their engagement can use the backdrop of the castle’s historic walls, surrounded by nature and history. Getting engaged while there is a sword battle in the background seems like a once in a lifetime experience. Other entertainment is ever present during the festival.

Special birds that were in the past used for combat, trained by skilled handlers, show off their agility in breathtaking demonstrations. Children have the choice to participate in engaging activities where they can dress up, play, and learn about the medieval world in a fun way. 

From the castle’s stone towers to the detailed reenactments, the festival offers a window into a different time. This long-standing tradition continues to inspire interest in the region’s rich cultural heritage and keeps the spirit of the Middle Ages alive for visitors of all ages.

This year, the Medieval Days festival took place from May 25 to June 1. This was the 17th Medieval Days event, which just goes to show you how long these week-long festivals have been organized. For an entire week, the castle and its grounds came alive with the sounds of music, the clash of swords, and the laughter of jesters, all wrapped in the vibrant charm of medieval life.

Up on the castle’s terrace, thrilling knight duels and lively dance performances from both local talent and international guests captured the attention of all visitors of the castle. Meanwhile, just below, the park transformed into a bustling medieval camp where guests could test their aim with a bow and arrow, try their hand at axe throwing, or they got creative with calligraphy and traditional paper making.

And maybe the heart of it all, the enchanting medieval market nestled beneath the castle walls. Here guests experienced first hand how skilled artists from the past designed their armor decorations, flower wreaths, and historic costumes. It’s more than an event, it’s a full-blown time-travel experience. If you want to experience all that plus visit Ljubljana, the city of dragons, we have the perfect tour for you. Do not miss out on your chance next year to travel back to the Medieval ages. 

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