Bratislava Coronation Days

Are you thinking about where to take the kids? What would you say about a coronation procession and a return to the times of chivalry? History is not dead and monarchs have not completely disappeared. In the former royal city, the past will come to life again this July.

This time, you can witness coronations as they once were from July 24 to 26, 2026. The theme of the 2026 event will be the coronation of one of the most significant female rulers in European history—Maria Theresa. A coronation procession will wind through the city streets, with participants in period costumes and with appropriate props setting the right mood. You can look forward to themed city tours, the procession, and a journey back in time.

👑 From Bratislava Castle you will be able to accompany a 200-strong coronation procession in ornate historical costumes through the streets of Bratislava. Slovak and Czech historical fencing groups as well as historical theatre and dance groups will be represented in the procession. You will find the king and queen, high and low nobility, church dignitaries as well as common people. The parade will end in the Main Square, where you will be able to see demonstrations of historical theatre and fencing performances.

There will also be a rich accompanying programme for families, guided tours of the city and much more.

During the coronation days you will learn for example:

👑 Why Bratislava became the coronation city of Hungarian kings and queens.

👑 Where the coronations took place.

👑 How many kings and queens were crowned in St. Martin’s Cathedral.

👑 How the actual coronation took place.

👑 How many bronze crowns marking the route of the coronation procession.

👑 Where the crowned hill was located.

The coronation ceremony is accompanied by a period fair and many other attractions completing the period atmosphere.

What can you look forward to?

Tours of St. Martin’s Cathedral

A unique opportunity to enter the coronation hall through a small side entrance that is not normally used. Visit the presbytery, where Hungarian kings and queens were crowned, and view the list of all monarchs crowned in Bratislava, displayed directly on the wall. The tour also continues into the underground crypts. Given the sacred nature of the site, it is appropriate to have your shoulders covered.

Guided Tours: Coronation Bratislava

Special themed walking tours focused on the coronation history of Bratislava. Learn more about the places where monarchs walked, the symbolism of the coronation rituals, and the monuments connected to this historic era. Tours are available in multiple languages and open to the general public. Reservations will soon be available via the platform tootoot.fm. Limited capacity.

Coronation Ride with Prešporáčik® Oldtimer

Follow the route of the coronation processions in comfort aboard the Prešporáčik. This historical ride with audio commentary offers insight into the coronation history of Pressburg and the iconic places walked by Hungarian monarchs. Suitable for families and visitors with limited mobility. Kids receive paper royal crowns.

Guided Wine Tasting in the Wine Cellar

Taste the royal wine of Maria Theresa – Blaufränkisch – in the cellars of Apponyi Palace. A sommelier will guide you through the aromatic and flavour nuances of outstanding Slovak wines.

Knight Tournament & Falconry Show

• Noble Art of Horseback Hunting – smooth handling of game from horseback
• Falconry Flight Show – 4 to 6 birds of prey in action
• Hunting Dogs Demonstration – two trained dogs working in sync with handlers
• Featuring one falconer on horseback and two on foot
• Horse warm-up before the crowd – rider introductions
• Hungarian Knight Tournament – theatrical performance with historical storytelling
• Inspired by the Peace of Žitava, concluded by Palatine Thurzo after conflict with the Ottoman Empire
• Tournament characters are based on real historical figures
• Includes horseback and foot disciplines and a symbolic cultural clash between Hungary and the Ottoman Empire

The event stands out for its historical accuracy, dramatic choreography, and visual grandeur. A unique experience for families, history lovers, and fans of traditional arts.

Children’s Workshop

Coronation Procession 

Experience a majestic parade reminiscent of those that once accompanied every monarch during their coronation. The procession starts at the statue of Svätopluk at Bratislava Castle and passes through the historic centre via the Vienna Gate.

AI Photopoint: Become a King or Queen!

Create your own coronation portrait in Bratislava! Thanks to AI and a historical frame, every visitor gets a unique photo in the style of a royal celebration. Just step in front of the lens – AI does the rest.

Programme subject to change – thank you for your understanding.

Dear visitors, please note that photographs and/or video footage may be taken during the event for the purpose of promoting Bratislava as a tourist destination. By participating, you consent to this.

Location: Bratislava
Date: 24.07.2026 – 26.07.2026
Admission: free

More information can be found on the BKIS website.

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