Join the Journey: St. Ludmilla’s Pilgrimage in Tetín Honors the Oldest Czech Saint
Tetín fair, happening from the weekend of September 19 to 21 in 2025, will start with a historical parade. On Friday, September 19, 2025, right before the St. Ludmilla Pilgrimage, we will honor the 1100th anniversary of moving St. Ludmilla’s relics from Tetín to Prague. That evening, there will be a historical procession of St. Wenceslas to celebrate this significant event. This festive occasion will kick off at 18:30 at St. John of Nepomuk Church, where the relics of St. Ludmilla will be brought. Following that, the procession, accompanied by music, will head to St. Ludmila’s Cross, located near the football field, where the ceremony will conclude. Small snacks will be available for those taking part in the procession. The parade will travel through several areas, including Na Parkáně, náměstí Kněžny Ludmily, Dr. Aksamita, Kodetská, Včelařská, Mramorová, Pod Lesem, Na Knížecí, and Hájka z Libočan.
Saturday is the main day of the celebration
People who are curious about the original purpose of the pilgrimage, as well as those looking for fun, will find joy at the Tetín pilgrimage. This event is traditionally a symbol of The memories of the first Czech princess, a saint and grandmother of Prince Wenceslas. The Saint Ludmila Association is also a co-host of the celebrations.
On Saturday, September 20, the festivities will continue with a morning Mass at 11:00 AM and the launching of the newly completed St. Ludmilla Trail. Visitors can also view the relic of St. Ludmila in Tetín. There will be concerts, fun activities, children’s theatre, and many other exciting events. For instance, you can enjoy performances by Bon Jovi Tribute, Rocksana, and Yellow Sisters. Each year, the Tetín market and Bořivoj celebrations are truly spectacular. Expect to see fun rides, a bourbon festival, and children’s theatre. The market will also showcase the unique Tetínský Bořivoj beer, which is brewed using local malt.
On Sunday, September 21, 2025, the St. Ludmilla Pilgrimage will wrap up with the customary “Ground Breaking” ceremony at the Church of St. John of Nepomuk from 10 AM to 5 PM. During this time, markets and fun attractions will still be available to visit. You can park for free at the Tetín football field during the pilgrimage, and a free shuttle service will run all weekend. Additionally, bus routes between Beroun and the Tetín náves bus stops will be enhanced. Traditionally, admission to the fair is free of charge.
The Martyrdom of Saint Ludmila
Saint Ludmila, known as the Mother of the Czech Nation, found her martyrdom in Tetín in 921. As a Czech princess and grandmother to Prince Saint Wenceslas (born around 860), she is regarded as the oldest Czech saint. Originally from a noble family and the tribe The Pashtuns, she married the first documented Czech Přemyslid prince, Bořivoj I. Together, they accepted baptism from St. Methodius himself in 874.
In 906, her son Vratislav I. married Drahomíra. They had two sons: the elder, Václav (who would later become the Czech prince) and the younger Boleslav. After Vratislav’s death, he entrusted the care of his sons to their grandmother, Ludmilla, a decision backed by the tribal assembly. However, their mother, Drahomíra, who adhered to pagan beliefs, raised her children with a perspective sharply different from their grandmother’s. Following the prince’s passing, conflicts between the two women escalated.
Eventually, Ludmila agreed to relinquish her role in guiding her grandchildren to her daugher-in-law. Moreover, during the summer of 921, she moved from Prague to her stronghold in Tetín. However, fearing her return, Drahomíra plotted to eliminate her from their lives for good. She sent two assassins named Tunna and Gommon, Viking warriors who often served the Přemyslid for pay. They arrived in Tetín on Friday, September 15, 921, accompanied by their warriors. According to legend, these Norse attackers found Ludmilla in bed, brutally dragging her onto the ground and, before killing her with her own veil (or shawl or scarf), they allowed her to say a final prayer. Even though the princess pleaded for a merciful end, her wish was not granted.
