Welcome to the magical world of Saint-Nicolas in Guédelon, where the medieval castle under construction becomes the scene of a magical celebration. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere between tradition, history, and future project in the heart of Burgundy. Explore the Guédelon construction site and discover this work of medieval know-how. A wonderful adventure of the builders of the Middle Ages and a unique archaeological and scientific experience in the world.
The Medieval Christmas Market at Guédelon Castle in Puisaye
Enter the warm atmosphere of the Christmas market medieval in Guédelon. Discover local artisans and producers, delicious dishes and entertainment for the whole family. For this occasion, the medieval castle is lit, decorated, inhabited and sung for a completely magical Advent market in Yonne.
Throughout the weekend, on the different stalls of this festive market, discover a diversity of local products, from crafts to gastronomic specialties : Chocolates, jams, wooden toys and jewelry, honey, nesting boxes, turned wood tableware...but also productions of the workers and artisans of Guédelon such as dyed scarves, knives and forged objects, illuminated notebooks, crowns of the Advent, even history books like the one written by Philippe Minard and François Folcher entitled “Guédelon: Mad men, a castle” which offer a visit to the site in full activity and meet those who managed to make this dream come true.
All these productions and good things to taste will be installed in the courtyard of the medieval castle between the chapel tower and the main tower, both several meters high and built with the famous ironstone of Puisaye
During the Christmas period, the environment of the Guédelon construction site becomes special and exclusive activities full of surprises are offered to prepare you for the Christmas holidays. The castle of Guédelon then becomes a place of life where the public will have the chance to discover activities which take place only once a year. A unique experience in France!
When does Saint-Nicolas take place in Guédelon?
Saint-Nicolas in Guédelon takes place every year on the first weekend of December, on Saturday and Sunday.
Is Saint-Nicolas de Guédelon suitable for children?
Yes, this magical event is completely suitable for young people. They will be amazed by this festive atmosphere from the Middle Ages at the Château de Guédelon, and will discover good things to taste as well as shows and lovely surprises. A real journey into this construction site.
Is entry free on Saint Nicholas Day in Guédelon?
Yes, entry is free to the public during Saint Nicholas Day and reservations are not necessary to visit the castle under construction.
Guédelon Castle, an exceptional construction site in the heart of Burgundy
In the 21st century, in the forest of Guédelon, in the heart of an old sandstone quarry, workers build before your eyes a 13th century fortified castle respecting the techniques of the time. This is a crazy, timeless bet, planned to last twenty-five years.
This type of historical project is, in a way, archeology in reverse: in Guédelon, workers build to understand. Here, the artisans experience the project as in the 13th century and show you their work throughout your visit. Indeed, the numerous researches over this period sometimes lead to modifications of the construction initially planned. We undo, we rebuild, we move. It's almost a life project, like for a lord of the Middle Ages, and in everyone's opinion, the best way to remain faithful to the medieval era.
It is in collaboration with INRAP that the workers are calling for all historical sciences and know-how of yesteryear under the eyes of hundreds of thousands of visitors. You will also see how a mill worked in the 13th century, how colors were created, or the multiple uses of XNUMX-knot rope.
Since the start of the project in 1997 and the laying of the first stone, a fortified enclosure has emerged from the ground. This unique project in France, carried out by Maryline Martin and her team, is an archaeological, scientific, historical project and above all a incredible human adventure forged in time, wood and stone.
Who had the idea for Guédelon Castle?
In 1994 Michel Guyot, owner of castle de Saint Fargeau in Yonne, receives archaeologists from the national institute for preventive archaeological research (INRAP). They discover the presence of a medieval castle at the foundations of the castle. Michel Guyot then joined forces with Maryline Martin, current president of the site, to build a fortified castle!
What trades were involved in the construction of the castle?
Different artisans and trades from the Middle Ages are mobilized on the site: quarrymen, carpenters, joiners, stonecutters, masons, blacksmiths, tile makers, carters, rope makers, basket weavers... During your visit, do not hesitate to talk with these men and these women who contribute daily to the construction of the castle.
When does the medieval Guédelon construction site end?
Initially planned to last 25 years, the construction is being extended and should be finished around 2030. Indeed, changes in plans, research into techniques or quite simply work periods respecting those of the time (we were then working between 200 and 230 days per year), saw the construction site somewhat delayed.
Explore Puisaye-Forterre and its Treasures
Complete your experience during your trip by Burgundy exploring the beautiful region of Puisaye-Forterre and its many historic sites. This area made up of woods and ponds has a rich heritage. Located between the villages of Saint Fargeau et Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye, Guédelon is surrounded by more than 60 tourist sites.
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