Les Médiévales de Vignory

A Medieval Festival in the Heart of a Listed Castle

The Médiévales de Vignory transform the esplanade and surroundings of the medieval Château de Vignory, a listed Historic Monument, into a true medieval encampment. Organized by the Histoire et Patrimoine association since 1999, this biennial festival offers an immersion into medieval life within an exceptional heritage site, nestled in the Marne valley, 30 km from Chaumont.

Remarkable Architectural Heritage

The Château de Vignory presents a diverse ensemble spanning four centuries of military architecture, from the mid-12th century to the late 15th century. The keep, first mentioned in 1186, allowed Lord Barthélemy de Vignory to receive his subjects. The Well Tower, originally 30 meters high, ensured water supply during sieges. The centerpiece of the site is the 15th-century cannon tower, measuring 19 meters in diameter with a 7-meter thick shield wall: it is the largest medieval castle tower in the Grand Est region and one of the few French-style artillery towers in France.

Medieval Combat and Reenactment Companies

Since 2002, professional medieval companies have animated the festival with sword fighting demonstrations, jousts, and historical sketches on the esplanade of the castle's upper courtyard. Nearly 1,000 spectators gather to watch the demonstrations by the Lorraine medieval company and other invited troupes, in an authentic setting at the foot of the ramparts.

The Squire School: The Star Attraction for Children

The Squire School has become the emblematic activity of the Médiévales de Vignory. Children learn archery, medieval games, and chivalric arts before receiving a knighting diploma. Each edition sees over 100 diplomas awarded, making this activity a great success with families.

The Medieval Banquet

A convivial highlight of the festival, the medieval banquet brings guests together on the keep's esplanade for a meal with flavors of yesteryear. Past editions have hosted between 200 and 310 seated guests, accompanied by fire-eater shows, medieval music, and costumed character performances—executioners, witches, and lepers—in an immersive atmosphere.

Artisan Market and Activities

A medieval market brings together artisans and exhibitors offering forged items, jewelry, period costumes, and local products. Workshops demonstrating ancestral know-how complement the offerings, while a tavern provides food and drinks inspired by the Middle Ages. Guided tours of the castle and the village, a label of 'Petite Cité de Caractère' (Small Town of Character), enrich the program.

A Village with Exceptional Heritage

Vignory, labeled a 'Petite Cité de Caractère', also houses the Saint-Étienne Church, a masterpiece of pre-Romanesque art listed as a Historic Monument. Its three-story nave with an exposed timber roof, capitals adorned with fantastical animals, and a sculpted altarpiece make it one of the jewels of Champagne's heritage. A discovery trail, available via the ID VIZIT app, allows exploration of the village and its architectural treasures.