Almost everyone who has walked through the historic center of Bratislava has seen the gilded crown on the spire of St. Martin's Cathedral. It reminds us of the times when the city, then known as Pozsony, was the coronation capital of the Kingdom of Hungary. From 1563 to 1830, eleven monarchs were crowned here.
From July 24 to 26, 2026, Bratislava will once again immerse itself in this era during the annual "Bratislava Coronation Days" festival. This year, the main figure will be Maria Theresa – the only woman who was crowned here as a ruling queen. For three days, the city streets will transform into a living stage with knights, nobles, and musicians in historical costumes.
What, Where, and When: Festival Program
Admission to the main festival events is free. The organizers have prepared a rich program that will unfold in the historic center and on the Danube embankment.
Friday, July 24: Knights' Evening
The festival will begin on Tyršovo nábrežie embankment. From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, there will be a knights' evening with theatrical performances, shows by jesters, falconers, and a grand knightly tournament on horseback. This is a great opportunity to see spectacular duels and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of medieval entertainment.
Saturday, July 25: Coronation Procession
This is the main day of the festival, dedicated to the coronation ceremony itself.
12:30 PM: The program begins at Bratislava Castle. There will be performances by falconers, drummers, and historical fencing masters.
3:30 PM: A solemn coronation procession will depart from the castle. The royal court, nobles, clergy, and musicians will walk through the streets of the Old Town.
4:20 PM: The procession will arrive at the Main Square (Hlavné námestie).
5:10 PM: A theatrical coronation ceremony of Maria Theresa will begin on the square with music, dances, and historical rituals.
Sunday, July 26: Family Day
The last day of the festival will be dedicated to families. Puppet shows, fencing lessons, historical games, and the play "Habsburg Secrets" will take place on the Main Square.
In addition to the main program, thematic tours dedicated to Bratislava's coronation history will be held throughout the city during the weekend, as well as a celebratory organ concert in St. Martin's Cathedral. The detailed program of all events can be found on the official Visit Bratislava website.
