Friday – Bratislava Coronation Days Programme
From 24 to 26 July 2026, Bratislava – the former coronation city of the Kingdom of Hungary – transforms into a living stage of royal history. The historic city centre comes alive with a unique atmosphere of crowns, traditions, and stories of kings and queens who once shaped the destiny of Europe.
Friday, 24 July 2026 – Knights’ Evening at the Riverside
🕔 17:00 – 20:00
📍 Tyršovo Embankment
The Friday programme opens with an evening dedicated to knightly culture and historical entertainment.
Programme
17:00 Opening of the event
17:05 – 17:45 Historical theatre performance
17:50 – 18:20 Juggler and interactive historical entertainment
18:20 – 18:30 Arrival of the royal court with a falconer
18:30 – 19:30 Knightly tournament in honour of Maria Theresa’s upcoming coronation
19:30 – 20:00 Photo opportunity with performers
Throughout the evening, families with children can enjoy accompanying activities, including pony rides and historical games.
The highlight of the evening will be a grand tournament in a historical arena by the Danube, followed by opportunities to meet and take photos with the performers.
Accompanying Programme
10:00 – 20:00 | Kakaw Co+, Jesenského 7
Maria Theresa’s Cocoa Tasting
Discover unique cocoa inspired by a recipe from the era of Maria Theresa. This gently spiced drink with cinnamon combines historical flavours with a modern cocoa ritual. Simply say the password “AHOJ KAKAO”.
10:00 – 17:00 | SNM – Historical Museum, Bratislava Castle
The Hungarian Royal Crown Returns to Bratislava
At the Historical Museum, visitors can see a faithful replica of the Holy Crown of Hungary, one of the most important symbols of the Hungarian monarchy. The admission also includes access to the museum exhibitions.
10:00 – 17:00 | SNM – Historical Museum, Bratislava Castle
From the Levant to the Euro
This exhibition presents the development of currency through rare artefacts from the collections of the Slovak National Museum and the Museum of Coins and Medals, from coronation medals and historical coins to today’s euro.
13:00 – 19:00 | St. Martin’s Cathedral
Opening of the Presbytery
On this special occasion, the presbytery where Hungarian kings and queens were crowned will be open to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the coronation site up close and view the list of crowned monarchs. Appropriate clothing is required for entry.
15:30 – 15:45 | Franz Xaver Messerschmidt Café
Guided Tour
A short talk about the life and work of the renowned sculptor Franz Xaver Messerschmidt, who worked in Bratislava during the reign of Maria Theresa.
16:00 – 17:30 | Monastery Brewery
The Fate of Maria Theresa’s Monument in Bratislava
Historian Július Cmorej will present the story of Maria Theresa’s monumental statue group, from its creation to its destruction after the fall of the monarchy.
18:00 – 19:00 | Monastery Brewery
Blaufränkisch – The Emperors’ Drink
A lecture combined with a wine tasting introducing the story of Blaufränkisch wine, which made its way to the imperial table.
Notice
During the event, photo and video recordings may be taken for documentation and promotional purposes. By attending the event, visitors agree to their use in the organiser’s communication and promotional materials.
More information about personal data processing can be found in the GDPR privacy policy.
Programme subject to change.
