Medieval Festival of Hattonchâtel

The medieval city comes alive

Perched on the Côtes de Meuse, the city of Hattonchâtel boasts remarkable medieval heritage: fortified castle, ramparts, cobbled streets, and old houses. Every summer, the association Loisirs Amitié organizes a medieval festival that fully utilizes this exceptional historical setting to offer visitors a true immersion into the Middle Ages.

A living medieval village

For a weekend, the streets and squares of Hattonchâtel transform into a living medieval village. Dozens of extras in period costumes inhabit the city, recreating the atmosphere of a medieval fair with troubadours, jugglers, acrobats, and traveling merchants. The soundscape, between ancient music and merchants' cries, contributes to the visitors' total immersion.

Craftsmanship and demonstrations

An artisan market offers creations inspired by the Middle Ages: jewelry, leather goods, pottery, decorative weapons, and wooden objects. Demonstrations of ancient crafts allow visitors to discover the techniques of blacksmithing, weaving, wood carving, and illumination. These living workshops offer a fascinating glimpse into the skills that were the wealth of medieval communities.

Shows and Fights

Knight fights and demonstrations of medieval weapons are the highlights of the festival. Historical reenactment groups present jousts and combat techniques, while falconry shows and theatrical performances entertain the public throughout the day.

Hattonchâtel Castle

Hattonchâtel Castle, restored in the early 20th century in a troubadour neo-Gothic style, overlooks the village and the Woëvre plain from its rocky spur. During the festival, the castle opens its doors and gardens, offering a breathtaking view of the Côtes de Meuse landscape and serving as a natural backdrop for medieval activities.

An exceptional natural setting

Hattonchâtel is located on a promontory of the Côtes de Meuse, offering an exceptional panorama of the Woëvre plain and Madine Lake. This unique geographical setting adds a spectacular dimension to the event and invites visitors to discover the beauty of the Lorraine landscape in addition to the medieval activities.