The anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas is observed on July 6 each year. The day is also known as Statehood Day and is considered a national holiday. On this holiday, Lithuanians remember their first and only King of Lithuania, Mindaugas, a person who exceeded his era in political strategy, mentality, and spiritual strength.
In 2003, the 750th anniversary of his coronation was celebrated with a series of cultural events, including operas, folk music concerts, folk dances, parades, and festivals. Lithuanians, tourists, children, and adults joined such a grand celebration.
History of Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas
Mindaugas was the first Grand Duke of Lithuania and the only crowned king of Lithuania. Modern sources mention strategic marriages in conjunction with the expulsion or murder of his rivals when discussing his ascent. During the 1230s and 1240s, he extended his domain to regions southeast of Lithuania. He became a Roman Catholic during the internal power struggle in 1250 or 1251. This action enabled him to form an alliance with the Livonian Order, a longtime antagonist of the Lithuanians. He was crowned King of Lithuania in the summer of 1253.
Although his reputation remained unchanged for centuries to come and his descendants were not well-known, he gained prestige during the 19th and 20th centuries. Mindaugas was the only king of Lithuania — although most of the Lithuanian Grand Dukes of Jagiello continued to reign as kings of Poland, the titles remained separate. He is typically considered the founder of the Lithuanian state and is also credited with stopping the advance of the Tatars in the Baltic Sea, establishing international recognition of Lithuania and its return to Western civilization. In the 1990s, historian Edwardas Gudavičius named the exact date of the coronation as July 6, 1253. Today, this day is an official national holiday in Lithuania and is also known as Statehood Day.
The coronation of King Mindaugas and his wife, Grand Duchess Morta, was an even more significant achievement for Lithuania than expected, as a papal decree established the Lithuanian Diocese, thus recognizing the Lithuanian state. However, the exact date of the coronation is unknown. The historian Edwards Gudavičius, who published that date, is sometimes questioned. The place of the coronation also remains unknown.
Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas timeline
The Grand Duchy of Lithuania is proclaimed the Catholic Kingdom of Lithuania.
The legalization of the power of King Mindaugas, the sovereign European monarch, takes place.
The Supreme Council declares July 6 the Day of the Coronation of King Mindaugas, and later as Statehood Day.
It is established on the 750th anniversary of the coronation of King Mindaugas.
Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas FAQs
Where does Mindaugas name come from?
It is a purely Lithuanian male name.
What is Statehood Day in Lithuania?
Statehood Day is a public holiday in Lithuania which is celebrated annually on July 6 to honor the memory of the coronation of Mindaugas as the only king of Lithuania.
What does Mindaugas name mean?
Probably from the Lithuanian ‘mintis’ that means “to think” or ‘minti,’ “to remember,” in combination with ‘daug’ which is “many.”
How to Observe Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas
Visit Lithuania
Visit Lithuania to observe the Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas, also known as Statehood Day. You will have the opportunity to listen to different bands, mostly rock bands. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, watching a fascinating battle between the knights. In addition, a fire show that will take your breath away is a major attraction.
Join the “National Song of the World”
Every year on this occasion, an event during which everyone is invited to sing the national anthem is traditionally held. Citizens usually have a holiday concert in honor of the Coronation of King Mindaugas.
Go to the monument to King Mindaugas
The monument, created by sculptor Regimantas Midvikis, depicts King Mindaugas sitting on a throne holding a scepter and ball, symbols of his power. So, you can see for yourself how great King Mindaugas was and, of course, take a lot of great photos to share on social media.
5 Facts About Lithuania That Will Blow Your Mind
It’s heaven for linguists
Lithuanian is the oldest Indo-European language in the world, similar both in structure and form to Sanskrit, the classical Indian language.
Forests cover about 40% of the country
The majority of these forests are protected by five impressive national parks in Lithuania.
Lithuania has a national scent
It is the only country on the planet with an official scent, which consists of aromas of wildflowers, raspberries, ginger, sandalwood, and musk.
Basketball is a popular sport there
Lithuania has an incredibly qualified national basketball team, which has won three Olympic bronze medals.
It was once the largest European country
By the late 14th century, Lithuania was considered the largest country in all of Europe and one of the most powerful empires in the world.
Why Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas is Important
A day to commemorate King Mindaugas
The people should not forget the history of their country and its majestic figures. One of them is King Mindaugas, who did a lot for the development of Lithuania. And his coronation became a significant event in the history of the country, so we must celebrate it.
It has a long history
The coronation of King Mindaugas dates back to 1253, so more than 760 years have passed. The anniversary of the coronation of King Mindaugas is the cause of this event, which has survived for centuries and is still significant in the history of Lithuanians.
It’s time to look into the Middle Ages
On the occasion of the Coronation Day of King Mindaugas, various events are usually held in the spirit of the Middle Ages. It is a good opportunity for everyone to experience the atmosphere of life at that time.
Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | July 6 | Saturday |
| 2025 | July 6 | Sunday |
| 2026 | July 6 | Monday |
| 2027 | July 6 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | July 6 | Thursday |
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