Legend of the Sunken Bell

The Legend of the Sunken Bell is Bled’s most famous story: the young widow Poliksena had a bell cast for the island church in memory of her husband, but a storm caught the boat carrying it and the bell sank to the bottom of the lake — where, on calm nights, it is said to ring still. The Pope later dedicated a new bell to the widow, who had entered a convent — today’s wishing bell, which visitors to the island ring in hope of having a wish granted.

Every year at Christmas the legend is re-enacted right on the lake by the island — with boats, lights and music, one of the most atmospheric scenes of Bled’s winter. The performance is free and part of the festive Winter Fairy Tale; check the current festive programme for the exact date and time.