Medieval Festival of Entrechaux

Entrechaux and its medieval castle: an exceptional heritage

Nestled at the foot of the northern slopes of Mont Ventoux, in the Ouvèze valley, the village of Entrechaux (84340) is dominated by the imposing ruins of its medieval castle, perched on a rocky spur several tens of meters above the rooftops. This castle, whose origins date back to the 11th century, was one of the strongholds of the bishops of Vaison-la-Romaine, who controlled the Ventoux road and the Ouvèze valley from these heights.

The Entrechaux castle today presents a set of impressive ruins, with a main square tower, sections of curtain walls, and well-preserved substructures, testifying to the strategic importance of the site in medieval times. Classified as a Historic Monument, it majestically overlooks the village and its surroundings, offering a characteristic silhouette visible for miles around.

The Medieval Festival: two days of immersion in the Middle Ages

The Medieval Festival of Entrechaux takes over the village surroundings and center every summer for two days of historical festivities. The natural setting is striking: the castle ruins in the background, the golden stones of the Provençal houses, and the intense blue of the Vaucluse sky create an ideal backdrop for medieval reenactments.

A large medieval market brings together artisans and merchants from all over Provence and beyond, dressed in period costume. Blacksmiths, tanners, weavers, illuminators, luthiers, and herbalists offer their creations and demonstrate their ancestral know-how. Medieval food stalls — spiced honeys, ancient breads, stews simmered with herbs — allow visitors to taste the flavors of the Middle Ages.

Jousts, combats, and equestrian shows

The highlight of the festival is the jousting tournament and the knight combats, which take place on the grounds set up on the outskirts of the village. Companies specializing in historical reenactment — in authentic armor and equipment — stage equestrian jousts, foot combats, and sword fights, all commented by an herald-at-arms who explains the rules and history of medieval tournaments.

Falconry shows present the birds of prey used for hunting in the Middle Ages. Archery and crossbow demonstrations allow spectators, young and old, to try their hand at period weapons under the supervision of experienced reenactors. Troubadours and jugglers entertain the alleys and festival grounds with medieval music, tales, and antics.

Entertainment for children and families

The Medieval Festival of Entrechaux is resolutely a family festival. A dedicated children's area offers introductory workshops — illumination, calligraphy, rope braiding, coin striking — led by history enthusiasts. Medieval games — children's archery, quoits, quintain — allow the youngest to experience medieval physical activities.

Guided tours of the village and castle ruins are organized during the weekend, providing insight into the history and architecture of the site. Visitors can rent medieval costumes to step into the shoes of a knight, a court lady, or a medieval artisan for a memorable photo.

The village of Entrechaux and the Ouvèze valley

Entrechaux is a village in the Pays du Ventoux region, in Provençal Vaucluse. A stone's throw from Vaison-la-Romaine (5 km) and the Dentelles de Montmirail, it is part of a region exceptionally rich in heritage. Hikers and cyclists are familiar with the Ouvèze valley and its changing landscapes, between vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields. The medieval festival is an opportunity to discover this territory and extend your visit to the surrounding area.