Chinon Medieval Market

The Chinon Medieval Market: a living tradition in the heart of the royal city

Every year, on the first Saturday of August, the historic center of Chinon transforms into a true medieval town. The cobbled streets of this royal city, dominated by the imposing Royal Fortress where Joan of Arc met Charles VII in 1429, host a market of costumed artisans that revives the crafts and flavors of the Middle Ages. From 10 am to 7 pm, visitors stroll among stalls offering jewelry, leather goods, fabrics, spices, mead, and medieval souvenirs.

A spectacular procession through the historic streets

The highlight of the Medieval Market is the grand medieval procession that starts at 10:30 am from Quai Danton. Knights in armor, ladies in finery, troubadours, jugglers, fire-eaters, and musicians parade through the narrow streets of Chinon to the heart of the market, offering a colorful and lively spectacle. Visitors are invited to come in costume to fully participate in this immersion into the town's medieval past.

Medieval Events at the Royal Fortress

In addition to the market in town, the Royal Fortress of Chinon organizes its own Medieval events during the same weekend, offering a rich program of activities. Two companies specializing in historical reenactment set up a late medieval camp with demonstrations of combat in armor, foot jousting, and knight tournaments. Skill competitions — quintain, béhours, axe throwing, ring toss — pit knights against each other in spectacular duels. Artisans, storytellers, and musicians complete this dive into the heart of the 15th century.

A popular and free event in the town center

The Medieval Market in the town center is free and open to all, making it one of the most popular events of the Chinon summer. Families, history enthusiasts, and the curious gather in a festive atmosphere, enjoying medieval specialties, demonstrations of ancient crafts, and street performances. The Fortress, on the other hand, offers paid access (full price €15, reduced €13) for its activities and tournaments. Together, they form an exceptional medieval weekend in one of the most beautiful heritage sites in the Loire Valley.

Chinon: a unique heritage setting

Classified among the Most Beautiful Detours in France, Chinon offers an ideal setting for this return to the Middle Ages. Its half-timbered houses, medieval alleys, and thousand-year-old fortress overlooking the Vienne river form an exceptional natural backdrop. The Medieval Market is part of a long tradition of enhancing Chinon's heritage, alongside the Joan of Arc Cavalcade and the numerous cultural events that mark the life of this historic city throughout the year.