There are places where the summer breeze seems to carry echoes of a distant past. Such is the case in Castell d’Aro, a picturesque corner of the province of Girona that , over the weekend of August 22 and 23, steps back in time to immerse itself fully in the Middle Ages. To mark the twenty-fifth edition of its medieval market, this town bids farewell to the present to offer residents and visitors an immersive experience featuring traditional crafts, street performances, and period tournaments.
Just over an hour’s drive from Barcelona, the event has established itself as one of the must-see events of the summer season on the Costa Brava. The fair, which remains free to the public throughout the two-day event, takes over the town’s historic streets—a site designated a Cultural Asset of National Interest—offering the perfect outing for those looking to combine a day at the beach with an authentic historical journey for all ages.
A legendary setting to relive history
The charm of this market would be incomprehensible without the imposing backdrop that surrounds it. The heart of the festival beats around Benedormiens Castle, a stone fortress first documented in 1041, and the adjacent Church of Santa Maria, built a few decades later as the complex’s own chapel. In these corners, history is not merely a backdrop, but the town’s authentic, living legacy.
Strolling through Plaça Santa Maria and the surrounding alleys means coming across dozens of stalls selling food and handmade crafts. But the magic goes beyond the market stalls. Various spots in the historic center come to life with demonstrations of everyday medieval trades: from the heat of the forge to the delicate art of glassblowing, including candle-making workshops and the creation of traditional decorated tiles known as socarrats.
Of course, a 13th-century market wouldn’t be complete without the clangor of battle. Throughout the weekend, the camp set up by the Alma Cubrae troupe hosts rugged knights who reenact the military life of the era, culminating in a spectacular tournament and a duel at sunset in Plaça Poeta Sitjà. All of this is set against the backdrop of bustling parades, belly dancing, traveling theater, and concerts featuring ancient melodies that bring each day to a close.
Crafts and games for the little ones
Children also take center stage in this unique journey back in time. The program includes activities designed especially for them, where they can learn circus arts, try their hand at imitating ancient stonemasons with the “Little Builders” game, or have fun designing their own pendants and wax flowers.
The market will be open on both Saturday and Sunday in two sessions: in the morning, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and in the afternoon, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For early risers, Saturday kicks off at 10:30 a.m. with an opening address by the castle’s last historical guardian, marking the start of a weekend filled with exhibitions on the Late Middle Ages and reenactments of the town’s origins. To make the most of your visit and not miss any duels or concerts, it’s always a good idea to check the official program beforehand.
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