St. John Day's Medieval Festival 2016

On 25th and 26th June 2016, experience the traditional St. John Day's Medieval Festival at Gruyères Castle.

On 29 May 1453, after a siege lasting a month, Constantinople falls to the Ottomans. The Emperor’s appeal for assistance falls largely on deaf ears, and only a few bands of knights join the crusade from the west. One of them, Jean du Vanil, sets off from Gruyères to defend the faith. Falling into the hands of Mehmed II, the gallant Jean discovers a new world into which he integrates and, using his diplomatic skills, gains the confidence of the Sultan. Permitted to leave the Ottoman court after twenty years, he returns home, bearing stories of his exploits and wonders from the Orient. Festivities are organised to celebrate the reunion, but not everyone is overjoyed to see him: an old rivalry flares up once again!

Spend a weekend immersed in a grand medieval saga and join in the celebrations to mark the crusader’s return. The caravan laden with exotic treasures will open up its coffers; craftspeople will be displaying their remarkable skills; minstrels and storytellers will delight you with music and legends tinged with the Orient. Above all, come and support the knights as they engage in their epic duel.