Going Medieval in Les Baux

Like a giant game of capture the flag

LES BAUX de P'CE -- It was a long, fun and windy (the Mistral is kicking up) day in this medieval town, the centerpiece of which is an ancient castle at the top of a huge hill that forms the town center. Les Baux is a top attraction any time of year but once a year hundreds of medieval enthusiasts (yes, apparently this is something of a cult-like passion among a significant percentage of the population here - my mind wanders to the scene in Pulp Fiction with the Gimp, but that's probably inappropriate given the very real, storied history here in Les Baux). Anyway, these guys and gals take it seriously and come from all over Europe to re-enact a famous battle that happened in some low-teen century when France consisted of about a gazillion little fiefdoms.

No damsel in distress

I've got to tell ya, it's quite a show - this ain't no American style Renaissance Fair. In addition to the battle reenactments where the dudes actually scale up the top of the castle, there is a sprawling medieval village set up, and the 'enthusiasts' camp out in authentic style tents, complete with animals and open fires. There is also an impressive display of falconry and horse riding.

Check out the web site and if you ever get a chance to be in this part of the world in the Fall, try to take in the Assuat de Chateau. If you're into a siege warfare machines from the medieval days, it's a must-see.

1000 people in full medieval gear, many with sharp implements. How can that not be fun?

France's version of Junk A Noo

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