Les Médiévales de la Cité

The Medieval City Plunges Back into its Past

The Médiévales de la Cité, also known as Cascarilh de Dame Carcas, are the major medieval event in Carcassonne. Every summer, for a weekend, the medieval City — with its 52 towers, its double enceinte of ramparts, and its countal castle — transforms into a true living medieval village. The ramparts, streets, the Prado esplanade, and the lists host historical reenactments, knight combats, demonstrations of medieval weapons and crafts, immersing visitors in the atmosphere of the 13th century.

The Legend of Dame Carcas

The Occitan name Cascarilh (meaning "bells") evokes the bells that rang during medieval festivals and banquets. The festival celebrates the legendary figure of Dame Carcas, who is said to have given her name to the city. According to legend, Dame Carcas, a Saracen princess, resisted the siege of Charlemagne for five years by making it seem that the city was still well-supplied. When the emperor lifted the siege, the city bells rang out, and it was exclaimed: "Carcas rings!" — hence the name Carcassonne. This legend is at the heart of the entertainment and shows offered during the Médiévales.

A Rich Program of Entertainment

The Médiévales de la Cité offer a complete program of entertainment for all audiences:

• Knight combats and tournaments: jousts on foot and horseback, melees, and duels in the lists
• Medieval craft demonstrations: blacksmithing, stone carving, calligraphy, illumination, weaving
• Weapon demonstrations: swords, bows, crossbows, catapults
• Troubadour shows: medieval songs, dances, and music
• Tales and legends: stories of the legend of Dame Carcas and Cathar history
• Medieval market: stalls offering crafts, honey, mead, aromatic herbs
• Participatory workshops: archery, blazon making, workshops for children

A Unique World Heritage Setting

The Médiévales de la Cité benefit from an absolutely exceptional setting: the Cité de Carcassonne, the largest fortified ensemble in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. The events take place in the very locations where, eight centuries ago, knights and crusaders fought during the Albigensian Crusade. This marriage of historical reenactment and authentic heritage gives the Médiévales a unique immersive dimension, transporting visitors to the heart of the Languedoc Middle Ages.