Get Ready for the Sudoměra Showdown This Saturday

At the end of March in the year 1420, a group of Hussites faced off against a much larger and better-equipped force of Catholic nobles at a place called Sudoměř. This encounter is known in Czech history as the Battle of Sudoměra. Every year, in honor of this significant event, the Pilsen Landfryd civic association puts on a remarkable reenactment. On Saturday, 29 March 2025, you can witness this event near the Markovec and Škaredý ponds, where Hussites will be chased by the crusaders hailing from Strakonice, as well as the Iron Lords from Písek.

Starting from 10:00 in the morning, a series of activities will be available around the Jan Žižka Memorial program. Visitors will enjoy a traditional camp and marketplace, along with exciting fencing duels, knights riding horses, beautiful dance performances, engaging games for children, and a falconer displaying their birds. The opening ceremony at the Jan Žižka Memorial is set to take place at 13:00. The highlight of the event will be the battle reconstruction, scheduled for 14:00 and again at 16:00, featuring more than 200 fighters. This is a special chance for everyone to come together to honor the heroic legacy of our ancestors and learn from their determination to stand strong, even in the toughest times. The tradition is proudly upheld by the community of Čejetice and the Czechoslovak Hussite Church.

Chariot wall, cannons and marketplace

There are many aspects to consider when discussing the Hussites, but the Battle of Sudoměra stands out in history for several reasons. It marked the first significant victory in the Hussite Wars, and it is noteworthy that during this battle, the Hussites were said to have utilized the innovative tactic of creating a chariot rampart. The details surrounding the participants are also fascinating. Around four hundred Hussites, including women and children, confronted approximately one thousand members of the riot police. Adding to the embarrassment of the attackers, they attempted to breach the Hussite defenses by crossing through the drained bottom of the Škaredý pond but ended up sinking helplessly into the mud.

This battle was the pivotal first major encounter of the Hussite Wars, giving us insight into the developments and strategies that shaped Hussite warfare. A vibrant medieval market will take place near the impressive 16-meter tall monument of Žižka made from stone blocks. There, attendees can enjoy various handicrafts, delicious food from the grills and pans, eye-catching jewelry, as well as wooden swords, shields, and an array of other fun attractions for both kids and adults.

The admission fee for the event is set at 200 CZK for adults, while students, pensioners, and children can enter for 120 CZK. A family ticket will be available for 500 CZK.

Event Overview

What:
A lively medieval celebration featuring reenactments, jousting competitions, sword fighting displays, a bustling marketplace, dance performances, and various family-friendly activities including games and an exhibition by a falconer.

When:
Saturday, 29 March 2025

Where:
Jan Žižka Memorial in Sudoměře, located between Markovec and Škaredý ponds.

Dual Commemorative Significance

• 605th Anniversary of the Battle of Sudoměře:
  This historically significant battle marked the first major victory for the Hussites, notable for their strategic use of chariot-fort tactics and overcoming the Cataolian nobles who ended up stuck in the mud at the bottom of the Škaredý pond.

• 100th Anniversary of the Jan Žižka Monument:
  The event also commemorates the centennial of the monument dedicated to Jan Žižka, adding an extra layer of historical celebration.

Program Highlights

• Reenactment:
  Witness over 200 combatants reenacting the Battle of Sudoměře with dramatic jousting and sword fighting displays.

• Medieval Market:
  Enjoy a vibrant marketplace offering handmade crafts, grilled foods, unique jewelry, wooden swords, shields, and other memorable souvenirs.

• Additional Activities:

  • Traditional medieval camp

  • Dance performances

  • Interactive games for kids

  • Exhibition by a falconer

Ticketing Information

• Adults: 200 CZK

• Students, Seniors, and Children: 120 CZK

• Family Ticket: 500 CZK

Organizer

The event is organized by the Pilsen Landfryd civic association, ensuring an authentic and engaging historical reconstruction.