Franco-Scottish Historical Festival

The Auld Alliance: An Exceptional Historical Link

The Franco-Scottish Historical Festival in Châtillon-sur-Indre finds its roots in one of the world's oldest alliance treaties: the Auld Alliance, signed in 1295 between France and Scotland. This pact of friendship and mutual defense has endured through the centuries and profoundly marked the history of Berry. Starting in 1419, nearly 20,000 Scottish soldiers landed at the port of La Rochelle to help the Dauphin Charles reconquer the Kingdom of France against the English. This epic culminated in the coronation of Charles VII in Reims on July 17, 1429, led in Champagne by Joan of Arc after the liberation of Orléans.

A Weekend of Medieval and Scottish Immersion

For two days, the Place du Champ de Foire in Châtillon-sur-Indre transforms into a medieval and Scottish village. Visitors wander among the stalls of the medieval market, historical reenactment camps, and art craftsmen. Troupes in period costumes recreate the daily life of Scottish soldiers and French knights, with their armor, weapons, and field equipment.

Bagpipes, Highland Games, and Scottish Dances

The beating heart of the festival is Celtic music. Bagpipe groups, including the prestigious Bagad de Vannes, parade through the streets and liven up the square with their enchanting melodies. The Highland Games allow participants to try their hand at traditional Scottish events: caber toss, stone put, tug-of-war. Demonstrations of Scottish dances and medieval dances complete this program rich in entertainment.

Lively Banquet and Concerts

On Saturday evening, a grand lively banquet brings guests together in a festive and convivial atmosphere, to the sound of bagpipes and period music. Celtic and medieval music concerts follow throughout the weekend, offering spectators a true sonic journey between Scotland and Berry. The festival is also an opportunity to discover the rich architectural heritage of Châtillon-sur-Indre, with its medieval castle and its César Tower.

A Unifying and Cultural Event

Organized by the City of Châtillon-sur-Indre in partnership with the association Alliance Franco-Écossaise and the Tourist Office, the festival brings together history enthusiasts, families, and the curious in a spirit of sharing and discovery. It contributes to the cultural and tourist influence of Berry by highlighting a little-known part of French history, while forging living links between the French and Scottish communities.