Les Médiévales de Bayeux

A Dive into the Middle Ages in the Heart of Bayeux

Since 1987, Les Médiévales de Bayeux have transported visitors back to the time of Norman knights and lords, in the exceptional setting of the historic center of Bayeux, a city famous for its Bayeux Tapestry and its majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. As the third largest medieval festival in France, this free event brings together nearly 60,000 visitors for a weekend in early July.

Encampments, Artisans, and Historical Reenactments

The heart of the festival beats around the historical reenactment encampments set up in the streets and squares of the city center. Dozens of reenactment troupes from all over Europe recreate daily life in the Middle Ages: crafts, cooking, weaponry, combat techniques. A large medieval market brings together artisans offering jewelry, leather goods, pottery, decorative weapons, period costumes, and medieval culinary specialties.

Performances, Combats, and Festivities

Les Médiévales offer a rich program of live performances: knights in armor combats, equestrian tournaments, falconry shows, jugglers, minstrels, medieval dancers, and fire-eaters. The streets of Bayeux come alive with costumed parades and processions. Medieval music resonates throughout the city, played by specialized groups using period instruments.

A Renewed Theme Each Year

Each edition explores a different theme related to Norman medieval history. The 2025 edition, the 38th, celebrated the theme of water, highlighting navigators, conquerors, merchants, and storytellers. Visitors are encouraged to come in period costumes for a total immersion into the medieval atmosphere.