Ride of the Kings in Vlčnov

“Ride of the Kings“ is a unique and colourful tradition practiced in only four south-east Moravian villages, among them Vlčnov.

The tradition refers to the flight of Hungarian King Matthias Corvinus from Czech King George of Poděbrady in the 15th century and involves a festive ride through the village with a boy portraying the monarch dressed in a traditional women’s folk costume to conceal his identity.

The event which involves months of preparations ends with a big celebration, dancing, drinking and merrymaking. The Ride of the Kings is on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.