Les Médiévales de Ferrette

Les Médiévales de Ferrette: A Dive into the Heart of Alsatian Middle Ages

Since 1996, the association Ferrette la Médiévale has been reviving medieval history and traditions in the exceptional setting of Ferrette, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Sundgau, in the extreme south of Alsace. Presided over by Régis Labelle, this historical and festive association brings together medieval history enthusiasts who value authenticity and quality in reenactment.

An Exceptional Historical Setting

The festival unfolds at the foot of the ruins of Ferrette Castle, the former fortress of the Counts of Ferrette that dominated the Sundgau from the 11th century. This listed site, perched on a limestone rocky outcrop, offers a spectacular panorama of the valley and provides an ideal natural backdrop for a medieval festival. The picturesque narrow streets of the town, its half-timbered houses, and its Renaissance fountains enhance the immersion into an atmosphere of a bygone era.

A Rich and Immersive Program

Les Médiévales de Ferrette offers a dense and varied program designed to immerse visitors in the daily life of the Middle Ages. Recreated medieval encampments allow visitors to discover the crafts, skills, and domestic life of the period. An artisanal market brings together craftspeople offering jewelry, leather goods, pottery, decorative weapons, and ancient culinary specialties in recreated stalls. Minstrels and troubadours liven up the streets with their songs and music, while storytellers bring the legends of the Sundgau to life.

Shows and Activities

Equestrian jousts and epic battles of knights in armor are the spectacular highlights of the festival. Demonstrations of ancient sports—archery, fencing, wrestling—allow visitors to try their hand at medieval warrior disciplines. For the younger ones, a medieval farm, a carousel, alchemy workshops, and fun activities guarantee an unforgettable weekend. The medieval and folk ball on Saturday evening extends the celebration until midnight, followed by an enchanting fire show.

A Biennial Event Rooted in Local History

Les Médiévales de Ferrette are held on even-numbered years, a rhythm that allows the association to prepare increasingly ambitious and well-documented editions. The 2024 edition celebrated the 700th anniversary of the marriage of Jeanne de Ferrette to Albert II of Habsburg in 1324, a major historical event that attached the County of Ferrette to the House of Habsburg and left a lasting mark on the history of Alsace. This historical anchoring distinguishes Les Médiévales de Ferrette from a simple costume party and makes it a true event of reenactment and heritage transmission.