“Mark Your Calendars: The Exciting Navalis Festival Takes Over Prague on May 15!”
Experience the grandest Baroque festivities on the water at Charles Bridge in Prague, continuing a remarkable tradition that spans three centuries.
The NAVALIS Saint John’s Celebrations honor the most well-known Czech saint, Saint John of Nepomuk, a native of Prague and the patron saint for all water-related activities.
The evening prior to the feast day of Saint John of Nepomuk, a mass is celebrated followed by a grand procession and a stunning Baroque water concert set on the Vltava River adjacent to Charles Bridge (this event is referred to as the vigilia).
Each year, a variety of exciting events take place, including a folklore festival, a regatta featuring historical and dragon boats, vibrant markets, engaging lectures, and fascinating exhibitions. Additionally, Venetian gondoliers enchant attendees with their beautiful melodies, adding a special touch to the celebrations.
Saint John of Nepomuk, revered as the patron saint of Bohemia, is celebrated within the Catholic community as a protectant against floods and the perils of drowning.
According to legend, King Wenceslas IV had John of Nepomuk tortured, murdered, and cast into the Vltava River due to his refusal to reveal the queen’s secrets that were shared with him during confession.
Long before he was canonized, statues of John of Nepomuk, such as the one installed on the north side of Charles Bridge in 1683, were already being erected, highlights historian Jiří Louda.
“By the early 18th century, John of Nepomuk had gained significant popularity in Bohemia as the patron of confidential confessions. He was beatified in 1721 and canonized in 1729.”
“The inaugural Navalis events honoring St John of Nepomuk commenced in Prague in 1715, drawing inspiration from similar festivities already established in Venice during the Middle Ages. For the citizens of Prague, May 15 became one of the most monumental dates, and these celebrations turned into the largest and most dazzling events of the year.”
Featured Activities:
– At 2:30 p.m., there will be preparations to adorn the horses for a festive costumed procession starting at Hradčanské náměstí;
– 17:30: a solemn liturgy will be held at St. Vitus Cathedral within Prague Castle;
– 19:00: a grand costume procession will make its way from Hradčanské náměstí to Charles Bridge;
– At 19:45, attendees will be treated to performances by Venetian gondolas, historical Croatian boats, a unique “walrus” race and an exciting parachute jump;
– At 20:30, a musical concert will take place on a floating platform.
