© Kaltenberger Ritterturnier

Every year in July you can travel back in time to the Middle Ages in Kaltenberg, west of Munich. Since 1979 Prince Luitpold of Bavaria, great grandson of the last Bavarian king, has been inviting you to the world’s biggest jousting tournament. During ten days of events, acrobats, itinerant entertainers, craftsmen, actors, quack doctors and village idiots inhabit Kaltenberg Castle. There is a huge medieval market with many attractions, live music and performances to entertain the visitors, in a magical atmosphere. A highlight of the festival is the great procession of the 800 performers across the grounds, including flag-wielding, marching bands and musicians.

The absolute highlight of the day is, of course, the spectacular jousting contest for which a 10,000 seat, sand-filled arena with royal box was built in 1985. With lances and swords, on horseback or on all fours, ten knights in shining armour battle it out in different jousting disciplines. In 2005, for the first time in 23 years, a team of stuntmen on horseback, led by film horse trainer, Mario Luraschi, will be performing. Be sure to book your seat in the arena early for this popular event!

›› Getting there by S-Bahn: S4 to Geltendorf until terminal stop (further by shuttlebus); by train: RE to Geltendorf (ca. 30 min.); by car: A96 direction Lindau passing Ammersee, exit Windach, follow the signs titled "Ritterturnier" (direction Eresing on district road LL13)

›› 82269 Geltendorf, Schloss Kaltenberg, Schloss Str. 8, www.ritterturnier.de