Every year in Poland the day of the Battle of Zalgiris (or Grunwalde in German) is celebrated. This most important battle for the history of the country took place on July 15, 1410, the victory in it became decisive in the war between the principality of Lithuania and Poland on the one hand and Germany (the Teutonic Order) on the other.
The Teutonic Order occupied the territory of Samogitia (now it is part of Lithuania), and the aim of the war was the return of these lands by Lithuania. As a result, the crusaders were completely defeated, this victory was very significant for Poland. For the 500th anniversary of the battle, a monument was erected in the center of Krakow (the historical capital of Poland) to symbolize this victory.
In the fields near the village of Grunwald, in northwestern Poland, since 1998, a historical reenactment of the battle has been carried out every summer. Thousands of lovers of the Middle Ages in historical costumes come from all over the world to take part in this large-scale reenactment of the battle between the Crusaders and the Eastern peoples. Competitions and fights continue for several days, thousands of tourists become witnesses and participants of old events.
Knightly brotherhoods from Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Italy, Finland, France, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and even the USA take part in the historical show. July 15 is a beautiful summer day, very convenient for organizing a massive tourist holiday in nature. Thanks to the experience already gained, the reconstruction of the Battle of Grunwald becomes more and more detailed every year, even small details and events of that distant battle are recreated.
A real medieval camp is set up on the Gründwald Fields. White tents, knights in shiny armor, their servants, girls in caps, merchants, artisans - all this creates a complete impression of travel in time. A fair is also held here, where everyone can buy items of clothing, jewelry and antique weapons. In addition to the reconstruction of battles, knights measure their strength in clashes with a long sword, archery, and tournaments are held.
The presidents of Poland and Lithuania, as well as other prominent figures of these countries, take part in the ceremonial events. They congratulate their peoples on the victory in the great common battle, the unity of the Polish and Lithuanian peoples 600 years ago united all the peoples of Eastern and Central Europe, which largely determined the fate of these countries and all of Europe.
