Press Release 2024
The Battle of the Three Emperors in Slavkov: History Comes Alive
Weekend of November 28–30, 2024
Press Release
Slavkov u Brna Returns to 1805: Allied Monarchs and Napoleon Return to the Chateau
During the final weekend of November 2024, the town of Slavkov u Brna will be transported 219 years back to one of the most significant events in European history. From Thursday, November 28, to Saturday, November 30, the town will commemorate the famous Battle of the Three Emperors. On December 2, 1805, near Slavkov u Brna, French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte defeated the combined forces of Austria and Russia. The battle involved approximately 160,000 soldiers, with historical estimates indicating up to 20,000 fatalities.
Historical Program for Visitors
“While the program commemorating Napoleon’s triumph is highly engaging for spectators, we must not lose sight of the tragedy it represents. Beneath the period atmosphere and enticing events lies the memory of tens of thousands of fallen and maimed soldiers, impoverished civilians, and years of destitution. This image must remain in our minds when anyone extols the virtues of a divided Europe,” remarked Mayor Michal Boudný.
He emphasized the significance of the traditional Sunday memorial ceremony at the Peace Monument, where historical reenactment groups and public officials will honor the victims of the war.
Visitors can expect a fully immersive experience of this historic turning point. Allied emperors will gather at the chateau on Friday, offering the public a chance to witness history brought to life. The event features a unique Empire-style ball hosted by historical clubs from across Europe in the chateau’s grand Historical Hall. Public attendance is welcomed without the need for period attire.
On Saturday, Slavkov’s center will transform into a historic town with a pre-Christmas market featuring period performances and a parade of soldiers. Highlights include weapon demonstrations, training displays, and battle reenactments, recreating dramatic moments from the Battle of Austerlitz.
The day’s program culminates at 7:45 PM with the traditional parade of soldiers from all armies, concluding with a nighttime battle reenactment in the chateau park, complete with pyrotechnic effects. The chateau itself plays a pivotal role as Napoleon Bonaparte delivers his historic proclamation from its balcony.
Event Details
This event is part of a regional program under the Battle of Slavkov series. A full schedule is available at www.jizni-morava.cz/cz/napoleon-bonaparte. Shuttle bus services between Slavkov u Brna and the battle reenactment site near the Rohlenka motorway rest stop in Tvarožná will run approximately every 20–30 minutes from 11:30 AM to 1:20 PM. Return trips from Rohlenka to Slavkov u Brna will operate between 3:00 PM and 4:20 PM, every 20 minutes. More information on schedules can be found here.
“We recommend visitors use public transportation, such as trains from Brno or connecting bus services from the town’s bus station, located near the center. Combining the Tvarožná battle reenactment with the grand finale in Slavkov u Brna provides the ideal experience,” advises Eva Kellner Fialová, the chateau director.
The event is organized by Slavkov Chateau – Austerlitz, with support from the town of Slavkov u Brna and the South Moravian Region.
Schedule
Thursday, November 28, 2024
- 6:00 PM – Memorial Mass for the Victims of the Battle of Austerlitz
Chapel of the Holy Cross at the Slavkov Chateau. - 7:00 PM – Felix Slováček Concert
Historical Hall, Slavkov Chateau (Free admission).
Friday, November 29, 2024
- 7:00 PM – Slavkov 1805 – Prologue
Arrival of monarchs and program at the chateau courtyard. - 7:30 PM – Empire Ball
Experience dances and music from Napoleon’s era in the Historical Hall. Public welcome; no period costume required (Admission fee applies). - 8:00 PM – Signing of the Coalition Treaty
A symbolic signing between the Austrian Emperor and the Russian Tsar in the Historical Hall, accompanied by a polonaise dance. - 9:30 PM – Evening program ends.
Saturday, November 30, 2024
- 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM – Pre-Christmas Market
Palackého Square, Husova Street, and chateau courtyard. - 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM – “Once Upon a Time in Slavkov 1805”
Daylong demonstrations of military equipment and drills, starting with a 10:00 AM soldiers’ assembly at the town hall. - 12:00 PM – Battle Reenactment: “That Day at Slavkov” (Part 1)
Prologue battle scene in the chateau park. - 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM – Costume Tours of the Chateau
Tours led by the Per Vobis theater group. - 7:45 PM – Soldier Parade
Soldiers in full regalia parade through the streets of Slavkov. - 8:00 PM – Battle Reenactment: “That Day at Slavkov” (Part 2)
Epilogue battle scene in the lower chateau park, followed by Napoleon’s proclamation and a fireworks display.
Additional Information
- Closures: Palackého Square, Husova Street, and Komenského Square closed from Friday, November 29, 6:00 PM, to Sunday, December 1, 10:00 PM.
- Admission: Public programs are free; select activities (e.g., Empire Ball) require paid entry.
- Visitor Tips:
- Bring cash for market purchases.
- Dogs are not allowed in the chateau grounds.
- Respect the fragile statues and visitor regulations.
For details and updates, visit www.tenkratveslavkove.cz.