The Istrian jewel, picturesque Svetvinčenat, last weekend once again became the epicenter of historical events, hosting the thirteenth edition of the Medieval Festival, which surpassed all expectations. More than 15,000 visitors from Croatia and numerous European countries flocked to the heart of Istria to witness a unique journey through time. The atmosphere, filled with the sound of swords, the smell of traditional dishes, and scenes from ancient times, transformed this Renaissance town into a living stage of the Middle Ages, confirming the festival's status as one of the most significant and most visited events of its kind in the region.

This year's edition of the festival will be remembered for its exceptionally rich international collaboration and an impressive number of participants. More than 400 costumed members from twenty historical associations brought the spirit of the past to life, arriving from Croatia, Italy, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Their passion and dedication to detail, from authentic armor to faithfully reconstructed camps, provided visitors with an unrepeatable and authentic experience.

A Spectacle for All Senses: From Knightly Tournaments to Fiery Magic

The program, strategically divided into three thematic days, offered diverse content for all generations. The highlight of Saturday's "Day of Chivalry" was undoubtedly the spectacular premiere of the equestrian tournament performed by the Slovak association Hector. For the first time before an Istrian audience, they staged the legend of King Arthur, bringing a story of honor, courage, and magic. Despite occasional summer showers that threatened the program, the knights on horseback, their skill, and the dramatic nature of the performance left the audience breathless, proving that the spirit of chivalry knows no obstacles. This authentic reconstruction of the most famous knightly legend proved to be a complete success and an innovation that set high standards for future editions.

New additions to the program gave a special charm to the festival. The Slovak association Kaukliar on stilts drew smiles and admiration, moving through the crowd of visitors with their juggling skills and charming interactive performances. A touch of Italian medieval entertainment was brought by the group Convivio dei Giullari, whose performances revived the spirit of traveling entertainers. However, the most breathtaking moments belonged to the masters of fire. For the first time, the Austrian association Flare Performance participated in the festival, delivering a sensational show with aerial acrobatics and fire dancing. Their combination of grace and danger, high above the audience, created scenes that will be long remembered. Alongside them, the already well-known forces, Flame Rain Theatre from Austria and the local association Mad Sun Rises, brought a spectacular finale each evening with their fire show programs, painting fiery pictures on the night sky above the Morosini-Grimani castle.

A Return to the Past at Every Step

The entire Svetvinčenat was transformed into a large medieval stage, with the program taking place at three key locations. The central Placa was the heart of the festival, filled with the colors of a traditional medieval fair. Numerous producers of indigenous products, from honey and cheese to brandies and medicinal herbs, offered the tastes of Istria. Besides them, masters of old crafts demonstrated their skills – from blacksmithing, leatherworking, and pottery to weaving. Visitors could see up close how objects are made without modern technology and buy unique handicrafts as a souvenir of this extraordinary experience. This kind of offer is an excellent reason to plan a longer stay and find the ideal accommodation in Svetvinčenat.

Žlinja, a spacious grassy area at the foot of the imposing castle, was transformed into a real knight's camp. The main part of the program took place here – from the attractive falconry show by the association Sokolary Sv. Bavona from Slovakia, which especially delighted the youngest, to the presentation of the development of archery performed by the association Fekete Solyom. The festival hosts, the Povijesna udruga Kaštel, once again organized the beloved children's battle, giving young fighters the chance to try their hand at defending the fortress. The skill of flag-waving was demonstrated by the top Italian group Gruppo Sbandieratori del Palio di Asti, whose synchronization and choreography were a true visual delight, while the Družba vitezova Zlatnog kaleža showed the power of firearms with the thunder of their cannons and guns.

The Morosini-Grimani castle itself was the third, exclusive location that offered a display of knightly battles in an authentic setting, as well as a corner for a break with a medieval gastronomic offer and special cocktails. Inside the walls, an entertaining variety show "Tales and Ales" took place, combining stories, music, and laughter. The musical backdrop for the entire festival was provided by the Hungarian band Holloenek Hungarica and Ventus Eurus Cohortis, whose sounds of ancient instruments perfectly complemented the atmosphere. Detailed displays of armor, shields, and even the opportunity to get a medieval hairstyle could be seen.

A Family Adventure and an Invitation for the Future

The festival once again proved to be an ideal destination for a family trip. The youngest visitors had their own corner where, under the watchful eye of the members of the Sanc.Michael Theme Park, they could participate in medieval games or help prepare the witch Mare's magic potion. Sunday's "Day of Legends" also brought the traditional, staged "burning of the witch," as a prelude to the magnificent finale. The festival ended with a spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the castle and the entire Svetvinčenat, leaving a strong impression on all present and providing everyone with an unforgettable end to another successful edition.

The event organizers – the Općina Svetvinčenat, Turistička zajednica Općine Svetvinčenat, and the Morosini-Grimani castle – expressed great satisfaction with the turnout and support from visitors. They are already extending an invitation to all lovers of history, knightly tradition, and unforgettable experiences to mark the date for the fourteenth edition in their calendars. The new medieval magic in the heart of Istria is scheduled for the weekend from July 31st to August 2nd, 2026.