The 17th re-enactment of the biggest mediaeval summer festival in Croatia, the Rabska Fjera, was opened on Wednesday on the northern Adriatic island of Rab with a cannon shot, after a costumed procession walked the town streets.

The three-day festival will bring around 700 costumed participants to the island town of Rab.

On Thursday, manufacturers will set up street stalls with artisan handicraft, and costumed candlemakers, carpenters, stonemasons, bakers, and others will present their crafts.

Perfumed pomades and leather belts are made before the visitors’ eyes, and those who wish can have their hair braided in the elaborate mediaeval fashion, decorated with flowers and beads.

Visitors can also learn about old fishing techniques and taste fish dishes and other delicacies, including the Rab Cake, local dessert famous worldwide, made with Maraschino liqueur and almonds.

Rabska Fjera is based on a tradition started all the way back in July 1364, when the town of Rab celebrated their freedom from Venetian rule, as well as honoured St. Christopher, Rab’s patron saint who, it is said, had saved the town from destruction.

The re-enactments of the original festivities, which in the Middle Ages would last for two weeks, began in 2002.

A crossbow tournament will be held on Friday, St. Christopher Day, and the most successful knight will be awarded with a medallion.

The festival will close that day at midnight, with a spectacular fireworks show.

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