Les Médiévales de Château-Thierry

A Journey to the Heart of the Middle Ages in a Millennial Fortress

Every summer, the medieval castle of Château-Thierry, a jewel of defensive architecture founded in the 9th century by the Counts of Vermandois, opens its doors to host Les Médiévales. Across the 2.6 hectares of the fortified enclosure, the festival transforms the castle esplanade into a vibrant stage where period-costumed actors, musicians playing ancient instruments, jugglers, and artisans bring the splendor of the Middle Ages back to life.

Historical Reenactments and Spectacular Battles

The heart of the festival lies in its grand historical reenactments blending East and West. Visitors can witness the Duel of Champions between knights, The Taking of the Bridge for the conquest of the castle, The Meeting of the Three Armies inspired by the Crusades, and The Great Melee of Acre. The battles in the castle's dry moat provide a striking backdrop for these spectacular clashes. The association Les Castels, specializing in 10th-11th century reenactments, animates a historical camp with demonstrations of combat techniques, ancient fire-starting methods, spinning, and weaving.

A Craft Market and Ancient Know-How

The medieval market brings together artisans perpetuating ancestral skills: blacksmithing, woodworking, calligraphy, net making, and traditional fishing. Each stall offers an immersion into medieval trades with interactive workshops allowing visitors to learn these age-old techniques. On-site catering offers ancient dishes and delicacies to extend the medieval experience.

Live Shows and Entertainment for the Whole Family

The artistic program includes medieval music concerts, juggling shows by the company Ambraluna, medieval tales and readings for young people, puppet shows, and falconry displays with birds of prey. Les Aigles de Château-Thierry offer educational free-flight demonstrations. Evenings are punctuated by fire shows, flame eaters, and pyrotechnic displays, creating a magical atmosphere within the illuminated castle walls.

A Free and Friendly Event

Admission to the festival is free, allowing everyone to enjoy this dive into history. Only certain specific activities, such as falconry shows and treetop net courses, are ticketed (from €3 to €9). Organizers encourage visitors to come in costume to contribute to the medieval ambiance, while specifying that metal weapons are strictly prohibited for safety reasons. The Village of the Year 1000 completes the immersion with the reconstruction of a medieval dwelling.