So what is it?
The Cock of the Balkans is an international HEMA tournament held in Braslovče, Slovenia. Ah yes, the name, right? It’s because Slovenia is shaped like a chicken. And we are fencers, so we like to fight. Seemed to fit, ya know?
Since this is HEMA, and HEMA is wide, we must also specify the two weapons represented: longsword and sabre.
About the event
The event will take place in the town of Braslovče, and more precisely, in the sports park Rakovlje. If you’re interested more, you can read about it here. There’s a few things, however that will make this event special…
First, this is a public event. There will be spectators, and in the case of fair weather (which is very likely – in the last 10 years, this weekend has had 0.6cm of rainfall), we will fight outdoors. This will also mean plenty of space for sparring and other shenanigans. This is all possible due to the very generous and welcome support of the Braslovče municipality.
Secondly, not far from the sports park – 5km, a 10 minute drive – there is Žovnek castle. That will be our hangout point. Not only will it be our hangout point, we can also camp on castle grounds (or very damn near), which is gonna be a goddamn dream come true for many of us.
So. Sword tournament. Sparring areas. Campfire on castle grounds. You know you want to…
Quick Info
Here’s a quick rundown of the most important bits of info:
REGISTRATION: here
DATE:
26. & 27. September 2026
PLACE:
Braslovče, sports park Rakovlje
PRICE:
45 eur + 10 eur per additional discipline
DISCIPLINES:
Longsword open
Sabre open
Longsword women’s
Longsword beginners’ (unrated or HEMA rating under 1100)
Sabre beginners’ (unrated or HEMA rating under 1100)
LODGING:
Camping at Žovnek castle, or provide your own
FOOD:
lunch provided both days