ST.MARK'S FAIR
june 01-04, 2005

Within the first days of June, there was a revival of the traditional artistry festival of Zagreb, Saint Mark's fair. In the heart of the capital of Croatia, on the main square, the artisans of Zagreb and its surroundings gathered with the large palette of products inspired by tradition of the region. Majority of participants originate from surroundings of Zagreb, but the artisans of a nearby region of Koprivnica should also be mentioned, for they have played a dominant role in live presentations of old arts, such as carpentry, forging and basket-making.

St. Mark's fair was born almost accordingly with its home town, Zagreb. In 13th century, an official royal permission for the fair by a little church of St. Mark was given. The fair grew larger over the years, and it got relocated during the 17th century to the place of today's main square. It became the most important commercial event of these regions.

Today, St. Mark's fair is a symbol of tradition. It appears to be a museum image of the town in ancient times. Shield Maidens of Midgard wish to thank every enthusiast who placed their energy and imagination into making the center of the city alive with the scent of history. This includes all of the participants, curious passengers, sponsors, and especially the organizers - Kraljevi ulice (Kings of the street) - who continuously blaze the spirit of the city with their interactive presentations.

On a little stage beneath the statue of ban (governor of Croatia) Jelačić, there were periodical folkloric manifestations. But, the most interesting one was a fashion show TOTALLY OUT, a presentation of clothes according to the archeological periods of the region. The first model on the stage was a primitive man, and than followed the replicas of early bronze era clothes, Celts, Greeks, Romans, Slaves, Croats, and early Christians.

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