My visit to Belgrade Fortress coincided with the fifth Beli Orlovi, or White Eagles, Medieval Festival, held in the Upper Town from 4 to 6 September 2026. Organised by the White Eagles association in cooperation with the Belgrade Fortress authorities and the City of Belgrade, it brought together historical re-enactors in armour for displays of medieval combat, archery, crafts, music and dancing. Jonathan was very excited about the whole arrangement, but it sounded as though it might contain far too much organised frivolity for my liking.
Belgrade Fortress was an especially suitable setting, having been fought over repeatedly by Byzantine, Hungarian, Serbian, Ottoman and Habsburg forces during its long history. It was an entertaining addition to the visit and entirely free, although I resisted joining the combat on the reasonable grounds that my historical contribution is better limited to taking photographs and remaining alive. Some of the flags also seemed historically eclectic, although I lacked both the heraldic knowledge and the courage to challenge an armed man about his choice of banner.
Anyway, here are some photographs of the proceedings, taken from the relative safety of the unarmed section.
