Le Carrousel de Saumur

Le Carrousel de Saumur: A Bicentennial Tradition

Since 1828, the Carrousel de Saumur has perpetuated a unique tradition in France: that of grand equestrian and military demonstrations inherited from royal carousels. It was the Duchess of Berry who, during a visit to the Cavalry School, revived this tradition that had fallen into oblivion since the Revolution. Thirty-two riders divided into four quadrilles then performed complex figures, simulating lance combat and participating in ring races. The success was such that the Duchess requested a second performance the following day.

An Exceptional Show in the Heart of Saumur

Every year in July, the Carrousel takes over the Place Charles de Foucauld and the Cour d'Iéna, at the foot of the majestic facade of the Cavalry School. The show, lasting more than two hours, consists of several scenes retracing the history of the French cavalry: the equestrian traditions of the Cadre Noir with its famous "Airs" and high school figures, the daily life at the Cavalry School with demonstrations of modern combat training, and a grand historical reenactment featuring the mythical regiments of the French cavalry, accompanied by tanks and armored vehicles from the Tank Museum.

A Defense Village for the Whole Family

In addition to the show, a large Defense Village is open to the public, allowing visitors to discover the jobs in the Army, meet active soldiers, and try out different disciplines. A military book and comic strip fair is also organized at the Cavalry Museum. The entire event is free and open to all, in line with the desire for sharing and transmission that has driven this event for nearly two centuries.

The Cadre Noir, Jewel of Equestrian Heritage

The Cadre Noir of Saumur, inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, is at the heart of the Carrousel. Its riders, dressed in their characteristic black uniform, present the high school figures and the "Airs relevés"—courbette, croupade, and cabriole—that have made this institution, founded in 1825, world-renowned. The Carrousel thus offers a unique opportunity to see these elite riders perform outdoors, in the historic setting of their city of origin.