August 7th, 8th, and 9th: The Duchy of Normandy Festival!

The Ornavik Historical Park has expanded with the construction of a motte-and-bailey castle, its watchtower reaching over 24 meters high.

In a unique natural setting in Normandy, discover the history of the Norman lords and their daily lives at Ornavik.

Campsites, furniture, coin striking workshops, embroidery, castle fortification defense, and attack—the Norman Duchy is revealed with the help of our guides and the historical reenactment association “Vikings in 911.”

Join us at Ornavik from August 7th to 9th for three days of celebration at the second edition of the “Duchy of Normandy Festival.”

The program includes entertainment, hands-on workshops, treasure hunts, and mini-conferences with our guides. Both young and old can try their hand at archery, assembling palisades and Viking tents, and watch combat demonstrations by the reenactment company specializing in the 11th century, “Dex Aïe.”

Using a diorama depicting the battlefield and lead soldiers, the famous Battle of Hastings will be told by the association “Chantres et Chroniqueurs,” revealing the soldiers’ movements, the particularities of the two armies, the context of the battle, and the events that led to the victory of the Duke of Normandy over King Harold.

After the Carolingian village with its artisan workshops and the church under construction, the Viking trading post and its docked ship, the ducal period comes to life with its motte-and-bailey castle and wooden keep.