Amberger Brunnenfest

Medieval Times in Front of the Vilstor

The Amberger Brunnenfest is one of Bavaria's most spectacular medieval events. The venue is the historic Maxplatz in front of the Vilstor in Amberg, the administrative capital of the Upper Palatinate. The Vilstor — an imposing city gate spanning the Vils — and the cobbled Maxplatz with its old fountain provide an atmospheric backdrop rarely found at medieval reenactment sites in Germany.

Reenactment of the Princely Wedding of 1474

The festival's theme is inspired by a major historical event: in 1474, thousands of guests flocked to the then main town of the Upper Palatinate to attend the wedding of Prince-Elector Philipp of the Palatinate (son of Frederick the Victorious) and Margaret of Bavaria-Landshut. The Brunnenfest stages this grand social event: courtiers, citizens, craftsmen, fighters, musicians, and common market traders appear in detailed costumes and populate the square for three days.

Over 500 Actors, 50 Stalls

More than 500 participants in historical costume bring the festival to life. Among them are craftsmen demonstrating old techniques (blacksmithing, bow making, basket weaving, pottery, leatherworking), combat groups with sword and archery demonstrations, dance groups, musicians with historical instruments (bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, shawm), jugglers, and storytellers. Over 50 market stalls offer medieval food (roast piglets, game dishes, mead, wood-fired bread), handicrafts, gemstone jewelry, and historical clothing.

Program Structure Over Three Days

The festival starts on Friday at 4 PM and runs until 11 PM. Saturday is the main festival day from 10 AM to 11 PM with a packed program — including an evening fire art show and highlight battles. Sunday is Family Day from 10 AM to 8 PM with a dedicated children's program: archery for kids, storytellers, and hands-on workshops at the craft stalls.

A City with Medieval Character

Amberg is one of Bavaria's best-preserved medieval cities and bears the nickname Bavarian Rothenburg. The almost completely preserved city wall, the famous Stadtbrille (double-arched bridge), the Vilstor, and the old palace were the scene of important imperial princely politics in the late Middle Ages. The Brunnenfest brings this history vividly to life.