Karlštejn Vintage, held between 26th and 27th September, will offer not only burčák (half-fermented young wine) and other mouth-watering delectable morsels, but also a journey back to ‘ye olde’ medieval days of yore. According to the organisers of the 13 year old celebration, visitors can imbibe a rich full bodied programme steeped in medieval culture from ‘sunrise to sunset’. Apart from the procession of Czech king Chalers IV, the event will cast conjurors and music performers, jousting, historical dance workshops as well as a medieval fair into a thoroughly spellbinding event.
”We would like to offer each and every visitor who steps through the Karlštejn’s gates a magical journey that whisks them back to the 14th century, and in the process to gain a greater understanding of the world of their forefathers. We have colluded in conjuring up the programme with expert historians and The National Institute for the Preservation of Historical Monuments in order to enact as true a picture of those times as possible. There are very few events that strike such a truly historical note,” commented director of Karlštejn Vintage Helena Kolářová priding herself on the achievement.
In Kolářová’s opinion, Karlštejn Vintage differs from similar Czech events held in the same season by its historical orientation. “We don’t aim to become commercial. There are no fairground rides nor is there pop-music,” she added. The organisers highlight that the programme of the Vintage, which was resurrected in 1996, is a rich banquet of performances by historical groups. Every day culminates in a gaily coloured historical procession that makes its way from the vineyards up to the castle headed by the Roman Emperor and Czech king Charles IV, who is accompanied by his wife Elizabeth of Pomerania and other members suitably attired in historical costumes. “All participants are attired in Gothic fashions of the day. Additionally, we will introduce historical crafts and a host of culinary delights,” revealed H. Kolářová.
Visitors will be able to sample wine from local vine-growers. “The vineyards at Karlštej were founded by Charles IV and we honour this tradition,” said the director of the civic group Region Karlštejnsko, Vladimír Glaser, adding that the wine is prepared only in small quantities. “There are less than 10 ha of vineyards, and the wine is considered a unique and precious local speciality. It is not a commercial affair, but the vintage is certainly showered with copious amounts of tender loving care,” he said.
According to the organisers, last year Karlštejn Vintage was visited by about 20,000 people, and similar number is expected also this year. “The Vintage is attractive for its delightful location at the castle and because it is close to Prague. In addition, we strictly observe the historical context,” said Vl. Glaser. He also pointed out that the information centre CzechTourismu on Old Town Square prepared a presentation for this weekend which should draw visitors’ attention to the castle and its surroundings.
The programme starts on Saturday at 10 a.m. and is scheduled to finish in late night hours. Organisers recommend travelling by train in order to avoid traffic complications. The entry fee is 100 czk a day; children younger than 16 and visitors in costumes will be enjoying the programme for free. More information is available at www.karlstejnsko.info.
Source: ČTK
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