Les Médiévales de Château-Thierry

A journey to the heart of the Middle Ages in a thousand-year-old 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 true living stage where actors in period costumes, musicians playing ancient instruments, jugglers, and artisans bring the splendor of the Middle Ages back to life.

Historical reenactments and spectacular fights

The heart of the festival lies in its grand historical reenactments blending East and West. Visitors witness knight fights, armed confrontations, and battle scenes inspired by the Crusades. The fights in the castle's dry moat provide a striking setting for these spectacular clashes. A medieval encampment animated by costumed enthusiasts offers demonstrations of combat techniques, old-fashioned fire-starting, spinning, and weaving.

A craft market and ancient savoir-faire

The medieval market brings together artisans perpetuating ancestral savoir-faire: blacksmithing, woodworking, calligraphy, net making, and traditional fishing. Each stand offers an immersion into the trades of the Middle Ages with interactive workshops allowing visitors to learn these secular techniques. On-site catering offers dishes and delights of yesteryear to extend the medieval experience.

Live shows and activities for the whole family

The artistic program combines medieval music concerts, juggling shows, medieval tales and readings for youth, puppet shows, and falconry shows with birds of prey. Evenings are punctuated by fire shows, flame throwers, and nocturnal entertainment, creating a magical atmosphere within the illuminated castle grounds.

A free and friendly event

Admission to the festival is free, allowing everyone to enjoy this dive into history. Only certain specific activities may be subject to a fee. Organizers encourage visitors to come in costume to contribute to the medieval atmosphere, while specifying that metal weapons are strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Since 2026, the management of the event has been handled by the Ville de Château-Thierry, which has taken over the organization of Les Médiévales as part of the medieval castle's season.