Medieval atmosphere in Château-Larcher
Ideas for stays, Living History
Nestled in the Poitevin country, discover the charming village of Château-Larcher and its historical remains. Over the years, this small town has managed to preserve the charm of a rural town in medieval character. During your vacation in the Vienne, don't miss this gem on its rocky promontory, located at south of Poitiers.
Explore Château-Larcher and its remains from medieval times
Located a few kilometers from Poitiers, Château-Larcher inherits a rich history. Over the centuries, the name of this village has been changed. Formerly, it was called Castelachart then Notre-Dame de Château-Larcher. Today labeled Small towns of character, the village is particularly known for its rich medieval heritage.
The castral site, to gain height
The village is dominated by the ruins of a fortified castle, erected by the Lusignan family, above the La Clouère river. Before it was destroyed, the castral site extended over 300 m in length. Today you will only see the remains of the old castle towers.
Notre-Dame and Saint-Cyprien church, to admire Romanesque art
In the heart of the village, take the time to discover the church Notre-Dame and Saint-Cyprien and its portal, typical of Romanesque art. This church was classified as a historic monument in 1910. The nave is 13 m high and 31 m long. Inside, admire the impressive 5,60 meter high pulpit, dating from 1766.
This work of exceptional quality is the result of delicate and meticulous carpentry, cabinetmaking and sculpture work.
Enjoy European Heritage Days to visit the Romanesque church and the remains of the fortified castle.
The Robin mill, to discover the techniques of yesteryear
In Château-Larcher, discover the old Robin mill through 4 workshops and machines and tools in the context of the time: manufacture of oils, flour, carpentry and a wheelwrighting workshop with forge.
The existence of this mill is proven under the Ancien Régime, where sheets and wool were beaten with clay or bark to soften them. A canal passing under the departmental road supplies it. Machine tools operate using hydraulic power. The mill has been shut down since 1979, the year Jean Robin retired.
The dolmens of Arlait, for a prehistoric detour
Au 4rd millennium BC, the discovery of dolmens and tombs at Château-Larcher attests to a human presence from this time. Set off to discover the Arlait dolmens, on the plateaux between Clain and Clouère. They represent the remains of prehistoric stone tombs, built around 4 BC and reused around 2500 BC. Arranged in a triangle, these 3 monuments are placed about thirty meters from each other.
Take a leap into the past at the Château-Larcher medieval fair!
Hear, hear! Come and spend a timeless weekend at Château-Larcher and let yourself be surprised by the many exhibitors, artisans and the magic of the shows!
Feasts, discoveries and good humor
Each year, last weekend of September, the small village of Château-Larcher reconnects with its past by organizing its traditional medieval fair, in the shadow of the ramparts of the fortified castle. For 2 days, the village invites its inhabitants and passing visitors to celebrate, have fun with the family but also to discover the traditions of the Middle Ages through various exhibitions and shows. Bring your tunic or your cape and be ready to live a weekend like in the time of the knights! Each year, this event brings together more than 20 000 people wishing to soak up the medieval atmosphere in a good mood.
©Bastien SAUVE – Agence ZebrelleAnimations and medieval shows of all kinds
At the foot of the castle, in the open-air theatre, several medieval camps are reconstructed. The associations offer weapons demonstrations and battle re-enactments. For 2 days, let yourself be amazed by the various shows organized at Château-Larcher: stilt walkers, medieval dances, fire eaters, magicians, jugglers and more theatrical entertainment.
Children can have fun with the wooden games or medieval games. They will also have the opportunity to learn to sword fight !
More than 60 exhibitors gathered!
Demonstrations and exhibitions of trades of yesteryear will delight young and old alike. Several craftsmen are present in Château-Larcher during the medieval festival, to present the know-how of the trades of yesteryear.
Discover the art of basketry, forging and observe the meticulous work of an enameller-stained glass artist.
On Sunday, browse and negotiate good deals at garage sales flea market, held at the village stadium. Let yourself be tempted by the products of the artisanal food market and take the opportunity to buy your lunch and have a picnic in the garden of feasts.
You have planned a vacation in the Vienne ? Visit the other villages in the department that have received the label Small towns of character.
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©Bastien Sauve – Agence Zebrelle
©ACAP