The Landshuter Hochzeit 1475, one of Europe’s largest historical festivals, plays out over the next three weekends against the backdrop of a medieval Bavarian city that retains many architectural elements from the time of the event.
The Landshut Wedding re-enactment commemorates the marriage of the Polish king’s daughter Jadwiga Jagiellon, also known as Hedwig, to the Duke of Wittelsbach, George of Bavaria-Landshut, in a lavish weeklong celebration that was attended by thousands.
Every four years, some 2,400 participants don resplendent late-Middle Ages attire to remember the occasion in an event lauded for its attention to detail and historical accuracy. The re-enactors, exclusively residents of Landshut or the surrounding towns, have a wealth of experience in organizing such a production, having staged such bridal processions since 1903.
Through July 21, a series of events related to the wedding takes place, including the bridal pageant itself (2 p.m. Sundays) and knights games and jousting (5 p.m. Sundays). A festival play painting a picture of the bridal party’s strenuous journey from Poland is staged both Saturdays and Sundays; medieval dancing is performed at 5 p.m. Saturdays; and a combined performance of the dance and play is staged Wednesday through Saturday.
Although tickets for many of the major events have long sold out, a hotline tells what availability remains. Call (+49) (0) 871-922050; English is spoken.
Those without event tickets can still enjoy the Middle Ages atmosphere by dropping by a camp open Fridays through Sundays. Adult entry costs 2.50 euros and is free for those under age 12 on Fridays and those under 6 on Saturdays and Sundays.
Visitors traveling to the town on Sundays before the wedding party parade sets off at 2 p.m. are also likely to catch a glimpse of the costumed characters. Read more at www.landshuter-hochzeit.de. Information is available in English.
