More than two hundred years ago Napoleon’s most famous battle took place. The battle of Austerlitz was fought in the present-day Czech Republic near the city of Brno. Every year hundreds of enthusiasts from historical societies reenact the famous battle and this year is no exception.
In December 1805 Napoleon Bonaparte defeated the Russo-Austrian army in his most famous battle at the town of Slavkov (Austerlitz). Thanks to his ingenious strategy the emperor won even though his army was outnumbered. The battle, also known as the Battle of Three Emperors, resulted in the armistice between France and Austria.
Every year hundreds of history enthusiasts remind modern visitors about the grand battle by monumental reenactments. This year, between 27th and 30th November, Austerlitz is going to welcome some 800 actors – soldiers – from various countries, 350 of whom will wear uniforms of Napoleon’s army and the rest will fight under the banner of the two other sides. The emperor itself will naturally not miss the occasion of greeting the crowds of onlookers as well. Visitors will also be able to admire over 40 finely decorated horses. 15 cannons will add to the authenticity of the fights.
Besides the battle itself, a procession of the troops, and fireworks at night tourists may also enjoy the castle of Slavkov where Napoleon stayed and which also gave the name to the battle that actually took place at Tvarožná. There is also the Peace Monument which commemorates those who died in the battle.
In 2005 there was a huge celebration of the 200th anniversary of the battle when approximately 4000 ‘soldiers’ and 215 horses participated in the reenactment. The event managed to lure more than 20,000 visitors from many countries. Perhaps not that monumental the organizers hope to attract crowds of tourists to this year’s event as well.
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I love these reenactments of old battles -especially the Napoleonic ones. The show at Austerlitz is pretty impressive - at least that's what I get from the internet.