Mystery and Reality
The legend of the knight king comes to life in Győr
The age of chivalry is surrounded by countless legends and mysteries—especially in Győr, where the memory of King St. Ladislaus is preserved not only by the reliquary displayed in the Basilica. His legacy extends beyond the city: through his life and deeds, Győr is connected with the memories of the Árpád dynasty across the region.
Each year, the St. Ladislaus Days series honors the knight king by preserving and passing on these traditions, evoking the personality and spirit of one of Hungary's greatest rulers. This time-travel experience returns once again on June 27 and 28, with a family-friendly festival that includes sacred elements as well as craft workshops, a petting zoo, themed games, heritage reenactments, and an equestrian theater performance—inviting visitors to explore a distant yet ever-present world.
This year’s event is the result of excellent collaboration. The organizer, Győr Projekt Ltd., has set the goal of expanding the popularity of its events, and thus St. Ladislaus Days will now make its way to Gyirmót as well.
The event is supported by the St. Ladislaus Visitor Center and the Diocesan Collection Center of Győr, which will host a scientific lecture and a documentary film screening on Friday, along with a guided thematic tour at their temporary exhibition on the Káptalandomb (Chapter Hill).
Due to recent outbreaks of diseases affecting especially hoofed animals, the traditional parade and the event previously held at Aranypart will not take place this year. However, Győr Projekt Ltd. still wanted to offer something special for the residents and visitors of Győr. This led to the involvement of the Győr Equestrian Theater in the festival.
87 performers and contributors, 3 heritage groups, and over 30 horses will bring to life the “St. Ladislaus, the Knight King” performance—an extraordinary equestrian theater production set to take place at Rodeo Ranch in Gyirmót on June 28 at 9:00 PM.
This unique show depicts the life of one of Hungary's most iconic kings through thrilling, historically faithful scenes presented live, without cinematic effects.
The evening performance will be accompanied by free side programs starting at 5:00 PM on June 28, offering fantastic entertainment for both children and adults.
Tickets for the evening show, "St. Ladislaus, the Knight King", are available at jegymester.hu and can also be purchased on-site on the day of the event.
JUNE 27 – FRIDAY
Venue: Diocesan Collection Center of Győr (9021 Győr, Gutenberg Square 2)
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Handicraft Workshop
The creative workshop will revolve around the reliquary of Saint Ladislaus. Participants of all ages and skill levels are welcome to join and find a task that suits them best.
Workshop leaders: Réka Pálinger (librarian) and Krisztina Pintérné Rácz (museum educator)
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: The Baroque Cult of Saint Ladislaus in Győr
A themed guided tour in the temporary exhibition Adornment and Piety – The Life and Times of Bishop Ferenc Zichy of Győr.
Bishop Ferenc Zichy of Győr held great reverence for Hungarian saints, including Saint Ladislaus. The knight king’s figure appeared multiple times during the cathedral’s renovation, and the procession held in his honor is also linked to Zichy.
Tour guide: Gyula Perger (ethnographer and collection curator)
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: The Adventurous History of the Reliquary of Saint Ladislaus
A lecture presentation.
The skull relic of Saint Ladislaus is considered Hungary’s third most important national relic, alongside the Holy Crown and the Holy Right Hand. The lecture offers an educational exploration into the relic's medieval and early modern history.
Lecturer: Dr. Gábor Nemes, Director, Diocesan Collection Center of Győr
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Screening of the Documentary Film “Facial Features of Saint Ladislaus”
The film showcases the scientific examination of the reliquary of Saint Ladislaus and takes viewers on a journey through key locations of his veneration.
Filmmakers: Tamás Kiss and László Tóth
Throughout the programs (from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM), families and visitors are welcome to explore the treasures of the Káptalandomb through playful, interactive activities.
JUNE 28 – SATURDAY
Venue: Rodeo Ranch–Gyirmót (Győr, Gerle Street)
Free Side Programs:
3:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Open yurt, runic writing lessons, and camp life demonstrations for children – Tribe of the Wolves of the Frontier
3:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Basket carousel
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Military demonstration on foot by the Order of Saint George
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Handicraft workshop
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Petting zoo
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Pony riding
6:00 PM: Falconry show
6:30 PM: Show by the Nomadic Heritage Preservation Society – Steppe Fox
7:00 PM: Concert by the Szelindek Ensemble
9:00 PM: Saint Ladislaus, the Knight King – Equestrian Theatre Show
A performance by the Győr Equestrian Theatre
Ticket price: 5000 HUF/person