Almost a thousand costumed actors come to Visegrad every year on the second weekend of July, so that they can properly recall the most famous historical event of the former royal capital, the 1335 royal congress. This year, the 37th Visegrad International Palace Games will be held in the famous city of the Danube Bend on July 8, 9 and 10. Gondola asked László Cseke, chancellor of the Order of Saint George.
- Chancellor, the Palace Games connect centuries, peoples and generations. Forms friendships through experiences. Have you experienced that such meetings somewhat change people's way of thinking: it makes them more open, nobler?
– It can be seen that the common history that these peoples experienced in Central Europe over the centuries connects the larger communities. Also the teams that have been coming to Visegrad for decades, and I compare their strength and knowledge at the knightly tournaments. This year, many young teams are arriving, which will be present for the first time and will enrich the knighthood program as permanent participants for the next twenty to thirty years. Those people who love history and want to experience what their ancestors experienced in the past will certainly be ennobled in their way of thinking by the experience that brings them fulfillment here in Visegrád.
– Szelindek folk music group, Hollóének Hungarica, Aranyalma Páros, Susato old music group, I Guardiani dell'Occa from Italy, Remdih from the Czech Republic, Viatores from Poland, koboz artist Péter Balog and the others. These musicians elevate the Palace Games to a major musical event.
- Let's start with the aforementioned Szelinde: this band tours festivals not only in the Carpathian Basin, but all over Europe. Visegrád inspired many of their songs. Remdih from Prague or Viatores from Poland are regular participants at the Palace Games, they also draw a lot of inspiration. The group from twelve countries, the nearly one thousand costumed performers, also offers great liveliness to the musicians. And the cultured audience, which traditionally visits the venues during this event: the Knight's Arena, the Royal Palace, the Royal Wine Court, the Park Stage and Solomon's Tower. The Visegrad International Palace Games are also a significant event on a European scale.
– Organized by the Hungarian Buhurt Association, wrestlers from the Czech Republic, Israel, Serbia, Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, the Highlands and Transylvania compete in the Visegrad Tournament. How significant is it that the Visegrád event has spread to Asia?
- We are very happy that a team from Israel is coming for the second time. This is a very manly fight, to take the opponent to the ground is a great honor. It is a special value that this happens in an international competition. It is a memorable experience for both the spectators and the participants. It is good for the Palace Games and the country that our good news is being spread around the world.
Source: Gondola
Author: Pál Molnár
The original article can be read here.
Title image: palatojatekok.hu )
