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Thousands expected at 1410 Battle of Grunwald reenactment in northern Poland

07.07.2025 09:00
History enthusiasts from across Europe are set to gather in northern Poland this week for the annual reenactment of the 1410 Battle of Grunwald, one of the largest and most iconic medieval battles in European history.
The 2019 reenactment of the 1410 Battle of Grunwald in northern Poland.
The 2019 reenactment of the 1410 Battle of Grunwald in northern Poland.Photo: PAP/Tomasz Waszczuk

This year's reenactment—the 27th to date—will take place on Saturday, July 12, as part of the larger Grunwald Days festival running from Wednesday through Sunday.

Every year the reenactment draws thousands of spectators and hundreds of participants who portray the forces of Polish King Władysław Jagiełło and his allies as they face off against the Knights of the Teutonic Order.

"The Battle of Grunwald reenactment is the largest historical reconstruction in Europe—and possibly the world," said Henryk Kacprzyk, head of the Grunwald 1410 Foundation, which organizes the event.

The tradition began in 1992 and has grown significantly over the years. What started with a few thousand spectators has become a major cultural event drawing tens of thousands annually.

Grunwald Days officially begin on Wednesday, with medieval combat tournaments, including both melee and archery competitions.

On Friday, festivalgoers can attend the Grunwald Call to Arms, a traditional gathering that features the presentation of medieval banners and the ceremonial greeting of monarchs.

As in previous years, Friday evening will include a candlelit procession to the ruins of the post-battle chapel, to the tune of medieval music performed by the Schola Grunwaldzka ensemble.

The festival will conclude on Sunday with a Latin-language Mass celebrated using a liturgical format from the year 1410, offering a spiritual reflection on the historical events.

The original Battle of Grunwald, fought on July 15, 1410, was a decisive victory for allied Polish and Lithuanian forces over the Teutonic Knights and remains a symbol of national pride and unity in Poland.

(gs)

Source: dzieje.pl