Memory of Russia: Military and Historical Festival “Battle of the Ice” in Pskov Oblast

The Fifth International Military and Historical Festival “Battle of the Ice” took place April, 16 2011 on a historical site – in the village of Samolva, Gdov district – exactly where Prince Alexander Nevsky defeated German knights on the ice of Lake Peipus.

This festival has been organized by the All-Russian Military and Historical Public Movement and State Committee of Pskov Oblast on Culture with participation of Gdov District Administration of Pskov Oblast and Ministry of Sport, Tourism and Youth Policy of the Russian Federation.

Festival brought together around 300 participants from military and historical clubs and 30 cities and towns of Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, who re-enacted the centuries-old battle using authentic medieval clothing, armor, arms and equipment.

The program of the festival also featured finals of foot and cavalry tournaments, archery tournaments, which attracted masters who within decades have been perfecting skills of medieval warriors.

Festival’s guests had a chance to put on medieval clothing and armor, mint the festival’s coin, take photos, shoot a bow and arrow, take part in competitions, and also ride a horse.