Ritterturnieren, or knight tournaments, were popular events in medieval Europe where knights showcased their skills in combat and chivalry. These tournaments often included various competitions, such as jousting, where knights charged at each other on horseback with lances, aiming to unseat their opponent. These events served not only as entertainment but also as a way for knights to gain honor and recognition. Spectators, including nobles and commoners, gathered to watch the contests, which were often accompanied by feasting and festivities, reinforcing the social hierarchy of the time.