Join the Royal Procession of Empress Eliška: A Captivating Journey Through Beroun

The Royal Parade draws inspiration from a genuine historical tradition that dates back to the 15th century. Charles IV, a significant figure of the Middle Ages, kept the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire at his “country estate” – Karlštejn Castle. Every year, after Easter, he showcased these jewels in Prague, specifically at St. Vitus Cathedral. The journey of the jewels back from Prague to Karlštejn became a historical event marked by a procession through Beroun, where the local people celebrated the emperor’s presence. This year’s 18th edition of the Royal Procession, however, will be loosely based on another historical journey—Queen Eliza’s pilgrimage in search of healing for her husband Charles IV. Throughout the weekend, the procession will make stops in Králov Dvůr, Beroun, Tetín, and Serbia, where attendees can look forward to an engaging program full of activities.

On Saturday, May 31, at 10:00 a.m., the grand Royal Procession will enter the Royal Court, where the town will give it a warm and festive welcome. Attendees can enjoy historical music, thrilling fencing duels, and tournament showcases, along with performances by pranksters. By 1:00 p.m., the parade will reach Beroun, featuring a colorful display of flags, a captivating drum show, and an open house from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a period marketplace. At 1:25 p.m., a knight tournament is scheduled to commence, followed by the procession moving on at 3:00 p.m. For those staying in Beroun, at 4:00 p.m., there will be guided tours through the town, led by a guide from the Museum of the Bohemian Karst. Empress Eliza’s royal procession will conclude the day at Auntie, where a festive welcome is planned not only by the local authorities but also by the church. This is significant as Tetín is a historic site where Princess Ludmila, the first Czech saint, was murdered. Visitors to Tetín can enjoy a period fair (starting at 1:00 p.m.), a falconer, and entertaining performances by clowns, jugglers, and a magician. The day will wrap up at 5:30 p.m. with a banquet (including roasting of meats at the encampment of the royal guard featuring knights and squires), accompanied by period music.

On Sunday, June 1, the parade will proceed to Serbia. Following a farewell from the residents of Tetín at around 10:00 a.m., Empress Eliška and her entourage will journey to the Berounka River and along its banks towards Serbia. They should arrive in Serbia around 2:00 p.m., at which point the procession will navigate through the streets Za Vodou, over the Srbecka footbridge, and along K Přívozu, Sokolská, and Na Bříči streets, concluding their Sunday travels at Camp Srbsko. Anyone wishing to join the parade can walk part of the route alongside knights, drummers, horse riders, and other historical figures.

Attendees in Serbia will be treated to whip artistry and goat performances at 2:30 p.m. There will also be a knight tournament, a children’s tournament, period dancing, and a drumming display starting at 3:00 p.m., leading up to the highlight of the day at 4:00 p.m., a paper battle for the castle.

The Royal Parade – May 31 & June 1, 2025

Experience a vibrant historical reenactment inspired by the Queen’s legendary journey in search of healing for her husband, Charles IV. This tradition dates back to the 15th century and brings the Middle Ages to life.

About Charles IV:
Charles IV was a Bohemian king and Roman emperor, celebrated as an exceptional leader of the Middle Ages.

Event Highlights by Location:

• Beroun:

  • Parade of banners

  • Exciting drum show

  • Knight tournament

  • Lively period marketplace

• Tetín:

  • Significant site connected to St. Ludmila, the first Czech saint

  • Period fair

  • Falconer demonstrations

  • Clown and juggler performances

  • Entertainment in the camp of the Royal Guard

• Serbia:

  • Whip performances

  • Tournaments for children and knights

  • Traditional dances

  • Thrilling “paper battle” for the castle

Who Can Join:
Everyone is welcome to join the parade—whether in historical costume or regular attire.