A juvenile king, holding a rose by his lips (photo by Jialiang Gao)
On Sunday, May 30, young people in folk costumes will walk through the town, accompanying a “king” – 12 years old boy, dressed as a girl, sitting on a horse. The marching squad cries: “Harken, ye highlanders, lowlanders, home lads and strangers, to what I shall tell you on the Pentecost. Our king is honourable, yet very poor.” It is a splendid sight.
The origin of this tradition is unknown, however it takes place every year at least since the 18th century. It is going to be marked as a Masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity by UNESCO.
The “show” starts at 9 a.m. in the centre of Vlčnov, tickets costs CZK 100 (€4). There is a handy website with further information at vlcnov.cz.
