Viking Festival of Jumièges

Jumièges Abbey, cradle of Viking history in Normandy

Jumièges Abbey, often called the "most beautiful ruin in France" by Victor Hugo, is intimately linked to the history of the Vikings in Normandy. Founded in 654 by Saint Philibert, this Benedictine abbey was looted and burned by the Vikings in 841, before being restored by Duke William Longsword in 928. It was in this loop of the Seine that the Normans, descendants of the Vikings settled by the Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte (911), forged their identity between Scandinavian heritage and Frankish culture.

An immersive historical re-enactment

The Viking Festival of Jumièges transforms the abbey park into a vast Viking camp where historical re-enactment troupes bring the era of the Northmen back to life. The association Les Enfants de Rollon, named after the first Duke of Normandy, animates the camps with demonstrations of warrior fights, weapon making, and artisanal objects using period techniques. Visitors can try their hand at axe throwing, coin minting, and discover the daily life of a Viking camp.

Falconry, storytellers, and shows

Falconry is one of the highlights of the event, with bird of prey flight demonstrations in the exceptional setting of the abbey ruins. Storytellers bring Nordic legends and Scandinavian sagas to life, while a medieval circus offers performances inspired by the entertainment of the era. A medieval market with costumed artisans and merchants completes the immersion.

The night show: the climax of the festival

On Saturday evening, the night show is the highlight of the festival. The ancient walls of the abbey serve as a backdrop for a show of lights, sounds, and re-enactments that bring the history of the Vikings in Normandy back to life. This show, running from 11 PM to midnight, offers a magical and unforgettable experience in the spectacular setting of the illuminated ruins.

The Viking banquet

The most gourmands can book the Viking banquet, a festive meal served in the abbey park, inspired by medieval cuisine and Scandinavian culinary traditions. At €50 per person, this banquet offers a unique gastronomic experience in an exceptional historical setting, accompanied by entertainment and shows.

An event driven by a passion for history

Organized by the Department of Seine-Maritime in partnership with the Jumié-Joies en Fête committee, the municipality of Jumièges, and the association Les Enfants de Rollon, the Viking Festival is the result of collaboration between public institutions and history enthusiasts. It contributes to the valorization of the abbey's exceptional heritage while offering a moment of entertainment and historical discovery for the whole family.