Medieval fair on island of Rab

Island of Rab -  Fair since 1364
Every year in August on island of Rab, situated in the north Adriatic Sea, Rab Tourist Board organizes a medieval summer fair called "Rabska Fjera". This fair dates back to July 21, 1364, when King Ljudevit the Great liberated Rab from Venetians. Fair was revived in 2002 as a town holiday with the main purpose of keeping and developing local and traditional values. 


Medieval Fair in August
If you visit Rab between August 25-27 you will see artisans and craftsmen from the island or Rab whose jobs provided a living in the Middle ages. Many local organizations that nurture traditional crafts, make hand-made products present to visitors how certain objects were crafted back in day day and explain type of living. This is also a cultural/educational event that provides an insight into ancient living. 


Meet the local craftsmen and learn about culture
Several years ago I had a chance to visit Rab during this fair and experience was phenomenal. Three days of concerts, theater plays, street workshops and medieval style parties. Hundreds of people, sposnsored by the Rab City Council, stroll around historic part of the city and seaside promenade in ancient costumes and behaving in manners characteristic for those times. Everyone is very friendly and ready to share information about the event, culture, clothes, concerts...


Opening ceremony
Festivity starts with the opening exhibition of crafts from the middle ages, following the old crafts of fishing. One of the most interesting events is definitely the Knight's Game of Rab, where knights of Rab engage in crossbow competition in the honor of St. Christopher, the patron of Rab, whose relic is stored in the town museum. 


Where to stay on Rab?
Island of Rab is an excellent vacation destination because of its natural beauties and rich cultural heritage. If you would like to find accomodation on Rab check out travel agency Arbia for apartment rental or click here for hotels on Rab.


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(photos and text: Rabska Fjera & Rab Touris Board)