King John I Albert’s (Jan Olbracht) Visit to Elbląg in December 1494 Cover Image

Wizyta króla Jana Olbrachta w Elblągu w grudniu 1494 roku
King John I Albert’s (Jan Olbracht) Visit to Elbląg in December 1494

Author(s): Agnieszka Nalewajek
Subject(s): Local History / Microhistory, Political history, 15th Century
Published by: Towarzystwo Naukowe w Toruniu
Keywords: John Albert (Jan Olbracht); Royal Prussia; Elbląg; royal accounts; royal court;

Summary/Abstract: This article focuses on King John Albert’s visit to Elbląg, Malbork, and Toruń dur- ing his trip to Royal Prussia in 1494–1495. The visit to Elbląg has received minimal attention in historiography, as the primary purpose of the event was to accept the oath of allegiance. Thorough research reveals that John I Albert stayed in Elbląg from 21–28 December 1494 to partake in the Christmas festivities. During this period, the city served as the seat of the Crown’s court. The source base for the article is comprised of royal accounts kept in the Central Archives of Historical Records, which contain lists of John Albert’s court expenses for this trip. The article also highlights the arrival of an envoy from Stephen, Voivode of Moldavia and a legation from Margrave Frede- rick Hohenzollern, along with other ceremonies and feasts held at the court. Notably, the lists of expenses provide insights into the city’s responsibility for supplying the monarch’s kitchen, table, and horse fodder. This visit stands out as the longest recorded royal visit in Elbląg’s history.

  • Issue Year: 88/2023
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 5-26
  • Page Count: 22
  • Language: Polish