Les Médiévales de Clisson

Les Médiévales de Clisson: A Dive into the Middle Ages in Loire-Atlantique

Since 1983, the town of Clisson, a fortified medieval city nestled at the confluence of the Sèvre nantaise and the Moine in Loire-Atlantique, has hosted Les Médiévales de Clisson every two years. This major historical and popular festival plunges the town back into the atmosphere of the 15th century, the era of the famous Olivier de Clisson, Constable of France. Organized by the association Les Amis du Château de Clisson, founded in 1937, this festival transforms the historic center into a vibrant medieval city, under the imposing gaze of the medieval castle, a listed historic monument.

A Rich Program of Chivalry, Crafts, and Shows

For a weekend in July, the streets and squares of Clisson's historic center come alive with an intense and diverse program. Visitors can wander among:

• Reconstituted military encampments with demonstrations of daily life in the Middle Ages
• Chivalry demonstrations and béhourd tournaments (armored combat)
• Medieval market with artisans, blacksmiths, peddlers, and merchants offering period items
• Street performances: jugglers, troubadours, musicians, fire-eaters, stilt walkers, and magicians
• Skits and theater recounting the local history of the castle and the town
• Puppet shows and children's entertainment for families
• Falconry and bird of prey demonstrations

Saturday Evening: Medieval Ball, Feasts, and Fire Show

The highlight of the Médiévales is the Saturday evening, a true moment of conviviality and celebration. Visitors are invited to a medieval ball with an introduction to period dances, accompanied by rustic feasts under the market halls (by reservation). The evening concludes with a grand pyrotechnic show and fire-eaters illuminating the castle and the town center in a magical atmosphere.

An Event Rooted in Clisson's Heritage

Les Médiévales de Clisson are part of the promotion of the town's exceptional medieval heritage, dominated by its imposing 12th-15th century fortress. The association Les Amis du Château de Clisson, with its own costumed troupe and 70 volunteers, also offers medieval costume rentals to allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere. The festival is supported by the Department of Loire-Atlantique as part of the promotion of Grand Patrimoine. With around 35 medieval shops and stalls, dozens of artistic companies, and attendance ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 visitors, Les Médiévales de Clisson have become a must-see event for living heritage in the Pays de la Loire region.