Vita Romana
The great Gallo-Roman reenactment festival at the European Archaeological Park of Bliesbruck-Reinheim
About Vita Romana
Vita Romana is the flagship festival of the European Archaeological Park of Bliesbruck-Reinheim, on the Franco-German border. For over 25 years, this grand historical reenactment celebration has plunged visitors into Roman and Gallo-Roman antiquity for a weekend in August. Equestrian shows, gladiator fights, legionary military maneuvers, falconry demonstrations, theatrical tours, and musical entertainment animate the archaeological site, offering a lively and fun immersion into daily life in Roman times.
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Vita Romana: A Dive into Roman Antiquity
Vita Romana is a major historical reenactment event that takes place every summer at the European Archaeological Park of Bliesbruck-Reinheim, an exceptional site located on the Franco-German border between Moselle and Saarland. For over 25 years, this Gallo-Roman festival has attracted thousands of visitors eager to discover life in antiquity through live shows and immersive demonstrations.
A Spectacular Program
The festival offers a rich and varied program that brings Roman civilization back to life:
- Equestrian Shows: Demonstrations of Roman cavalry and the show “The Centurion of the Two Worlds”
- Gladiator Fights: Spectacular reenactments of arena combat
- Legionary Maneuvers: Military formations, combat tactics, and exercises of the Roman legion
- Falconry: Demonstrations of bird of prey flights in the ancient tradition
- Theatrical Tours: Animated tours of the site with actors in period costume
- Musical Entertainment: Instruments and melodies from antiquity
An Exceptional Archaeological Site
The European Archaeological Park of Bliesbruck-Reinheim is a unique site in Europe, bringing together on both sides of the border the remains of a Gallo-Roman settlement on the French side and an aristocratic villa on the German side. The park notably houses the reconstruction of the tomb of the Celtic Princess of Reinheim, discovered in 1954, as well as remarkably preserved Roman public baths.
A Franco-German Celebration
Vita Romana embodies Franco-German cultural cooperation in the heart of Moselle-Est. The event is organized by the Department of Moselle, which manages the archaeological park, and is part of an initiative to promote cross-border ancient heritage. Reenactment groups from France, Germany, and other European countries come together to offer a rich and authentic spectacle.
Activities for All Ages
Beyond the shows, Vita Romana offers numerous interactive activities for families: treasure hunts, Roman pottery and mosaic workshops, trying on legionary armor, ancient games, and tastings of Gallo-Roman recipes. The site's tour allows visitors to discover the archaeological remains while enjoying the entertainment.
Vita Romana — edition 2026
Vita Romana 2026 at the European Archaeological Park of Bliesbruck-Reinheim. Gallo-Roman reenactments, equestrian shows, gladiators, and family activities planned for August 2026.
Vita Romana 2026
Vita Romana returns in August 2026 to the European Archaeological Park of Bliesbruck-Reinheim for a new edition of its grand Gallo-Roman reenactment festival. Equestrian shows, gladiator fights, legionaries, and family activities will be on the program for this weekend of immersion in antiquity. The detailed program will be announced in spring 2026.
Highlights Vita Romana 2026
- Gallo-Roman reenactment festival in August 2026
- Equestrian shows and gladiator fights
- Family activities and interactive tours
Prices Vita Romana 2026
Practical information — Vita Romana
Access to the Park
By Car
The European Archaeological Park is located in Bliesbruck, halfway between Sarreguemines (15 km) and Saarbrücken (30 km). Access via the D82 from Sarreguemines or the A320 motorway, exit Sarreguemines-Est, then follow the signs for “Parc archéologique”. Free parking on site with a capacity for several hundred vehicles.
By Train
Sarreguemines station (15 km from the site), served by TER trains from Metz (1h10) and Strasbourg (1h40). Possible connection by bus or taxi from the station.
By Bike
The site is accessible via the Blies cycle path, which runs along the river from Sarreguemines, offering a pleasant journey through the Moselle countryside.
Address
European Archaeological Park of Bliesbruck-Reinheim
1 rue Robert Schuman
57200 Bliesbruck
Opening Hours
Gates open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days of the festival (Saturday and Sunday in August). Shows run continuously throughout the day in different areas of the archaeological park.
Prices
- Full price: varies depending on the edition (consult the official website)
- Reduced price: children, students, job seekers
- The ticket includes access to all shows, activities, and the archaeological park
Catering
Refreshment stands and food stalls on site offering specialties inspired by Gallo-Roman cuisine (mulsum, libum) and regional dishes. Possibility to bring your own picnic and set up in the park's green spaces.
Accessibility
The park is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility. The main paths are navigable by wheelchair. Wear comfortable shoes for the dirt paths of the archaeological site.
Practical Tips
- Sun protection: shows take place outdoors in August, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Families: interactive activities are specially designed for children (treasure hunts, armor try-ons, pottery workshops)
- Photography: historical reenactments offer excellent photographic opportunities
- Water: remember to bring water bottles, especially in hot weather
Contact
European Archaeological Park: 03 87 35 02 20
Website: archeoparc-bliesbruck.eu
Sarreguemines Tourist Office: sarreguemines-tourisme.com
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Travel to this festival
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Where does it take place — Vita Romana
Parc archéologique européen de Bliesbruck-Reinheim
1 rue Robert Schuman, 57200 Bliesbruck