Christmas of Wallenstein 2009

Period Christmas celebrations of the 2nd half of the 18th century with music, dance, theatre and fair with traditional Christmas goods at Mnichovo Hradiště Chateau.

Mnichovo Hradiště Chateau traditionally organises Christmas of Wallenstein on 19th December 2009. Program reminds how were celebrated one of the most beautiful holidays in the late baroque period and the beginning of the rococo. The family of Wallenstein and menials will present theatre ensemble in period costumes, who will invite their relatives and friends (dance ensembles) to the chateau, craftsmen (glassmakers, wood-carvers, blacksmiths, basket makers, weavers, laceworkers, fishermen, foresters and others), puppeteers and musicians. Visitors are also welcome in the period folk dress.

In the second half of the 18th century Earl Vincent Wallenstein and his wife Sofia of Sternberg lived at the chateau and were very fond of it here. They held a Christmas celebration with a plentiful program for their subjects. They invited craftmen with their families, peasants, cantors, orphans and other people to feast them. All these persons will meet here this year but performed by actors in period costume.

Program will include access to a personal space of family Wallenstein in the chateau, including space for staff and guests at the Municipal Museum and there will be a carved Christmas crib in Sala Terrena. Horse and carriage rides in the chateau garden, delicatessen, mead and mulled wine will supplement the Christmas mood. A festive Christmas concert will take place in the chapel of St. Anna and all celebrations will be finished by fireworks.

Mnichovo Hradiště Chateau is one of the most comprehensive chateau baroque complexes in the country. First sightseeing circuit will introduce visitors the original theatre and sets, the Duchcov library once managed by Giacomo Casanova, and the tomb of warlord Albrecht von Wallenstein. The tour is revived with a guide in a rococo dress and period Christmas aristocratic habits.
The second sightseeing circuit involves the Municipal Museum with a show of traditional rustic Christmas - folk customs and traditions and with an exhibition of toys and typical Christmas gifts of our grandparents.