Hundreds of reenactors from Poland, Germany and beyond have descended on the village of Grunwald where one of the Medieval era's greatest battles is due to be recreated this weekend.

Swords waiting to be put into action in Grunwald. Photo: PAP/Tomasz Waszczuk

The annual event, the biggest of its kind in Europe, typically draws up to 100,000 spectators.

This year's five-day gathering marks the 605th anniversary of the 1410 Battle of Grunwald, during which a Polish-Lithuanian army defeated the Teutonic Order.

About 25,000 Polish and Lithuanian soldiers took part in the original battle, commanded by King Władysław Jagiełło of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania Vytautas.

They faced approximately 15,000 men under command of Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights Ulrich von Jungringen.

Photo: PAP/Tomasz Waszczuk

Besides reenactors from Poland and Germany, knights from Serbia, Bulgaria and even New Zealand are taking part.

Tournaments, lectures, concerts and many other attractions are in store, besides the main reenactments on Friday and Saturday. (nh)

Source: PAP