International Historical Archery Tournament at Bled Castle

From May 14 to 17, the third International Historical Archery Tournament took place at Bled Castle, bringing together 180 archers from 12 countries.

This unique outdoor event, which has impressed the international archery community and won the hearts of visitors in previous years, was organized by the Institute for Culture Bled and the Archery Club Palček Bled in cooperation with Tourism Bled and the Municipality of Bled. Set within the unique surroundings of Bled Castle and Bohinjska Bela, the tournament combines a love of outdoor activity, history, and socializing. Thanks to its exceptional setting and the efforts of numerous volunteers involved in the organization, this year’s edition attracted an even larger number of archers from across Europe.

The competition took place on Friday and Saturday at two venues: the castle park below Bled Castle and the venue in Bohinjska Bela. Eighteen targets were set up at each location. Competitors, dressed in mandatory historical costumes, competed in four age categories and three competition styles according to the type of bow used: historical bows made from natural materials, historical bows made from artificial materials, and hunting bows.

The historical targets placed throughout the castle park and its surroundings were uniquely designed, varying in size and distance, with some also moving or swinging. One of the highlights introduced this year was the attractive 18th target, positioned on the middle terrace of Bled Castle, where visitors could watch the challenge up close. At the rugged terrain venue in Bohinjska Bela, 3D targets shaped like animals and fantastical creatures created an immersive hunting experience.

This year’s tournament featured 180 archers from 12 countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia. The youngest participant was eight years old, while the oldest was 85.

Although the weather challenged the organizers, with rain on the first competition day and strong winds on the second, the Sunday finals took place in sunny weather to the delight of organizers, competitors, and visitors alike. The finalists were therefore able to compete in the best possible conditions and achieve excellent results www.historicalarcherybled.com/

As part of the accompanying programme, an exhibition titled The Path of the Arrow – The Art That Flies was opened at Galerija Stolp. Until June 12, visitors can view handcrafted unique arrows created by Benjamin Kuster.