A medieval festival featuring knights and artisans in Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines (78) scheduled for September 2026.

The Middle Ages come back to life in Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines (78)! On September 19 and 20, 2026, the Moulin Neuf and the Parc de l’Aleu will host a large, free medieval stroll as part of Heritage Days.

Attention ladies, gentlemen of the court, and other curious souls: the Middle Ages are back in the Yvelines! On 19 and 20 September 2026, the Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines Medieval Walk will transform the Cour du Moulin Neuf and the Parc de l’Aleu into a village from another era. Organized by the Société historique et archéologique de Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines as part of the European Heritage Days, the event is free and open to all, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. And this year, the festival carries a special flavor as the association marks its 60th anniversary.

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For this occasion, there’s no letting History collect dust in the grimoires. The Compagnons Philippiens, a historical re-enactment association based in Dourdan, set up their camp and stalls to recreate several medieval trades. Blacksmith, haubergier (chainmail maker), apothecary, carpenter, Bayeux-stitch embroiderer, weaver, or candle maker demonstrate their crafts and techniques for the public. Children can even get involved, shaping wax to make their own candle.

Young squires will also have plenty to whet their curiosity. A râtelier will let visitors explore swords, axes, halberds, maces and other polearms, while the bow and crossbow will be given their demonstrations. The younger visitors can try archery in a secure space and visitors can test the weight of a chain mail coat. A carcan and a pilori will remind us that life in the Moyen Âge wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. Old-fashioned games, artisans, demonstrations and refreshments round out the festivities.

The setting, for its part, was no accident. Located on rue de Nuisement, Moulin Neuf, now the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, is presented by the municipality as one of the oldest witnesses to the heritage of Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines. Nestled on the Rémarde and beside the Aleu park, it lends its ancient stones to this medieval-life-in-miniature moment. A “return to the sources” perfectly timed for the 60th anniversary of safeguarding local memory!