The Great Ornavik Battles Medieval Martial Arts Combat In collaboration with “Les Ran Normaund”
June 13, 2026 0:00 – June 14, 2026 0:00
Caen, Normandy, France
The best medieval fencing associations will be present in Ornavik for these days, where fighters will clash in various formats. More than 150 reenactors and fighters are expected. Organized in collaboration with the Norman historical reenactment association “Ran Normaund,” these grand battles continue until only one survivor remains. Format: – Morning: Duels, 3 vs 3, 5 vs 5, 10 vs 10 – Afternoon: Historical battles, 20 vs 20, 40 vs 40, and more depending on the number of participants. During the fights, Grégory Anocque, considered the world champion of medieval fencing, will provide commentary to explain the techniques, tactics, and strategies. He will offer insights into the events. Armed with spears, swords, and shields, the athletes, equipped in period attire with chainmail, helmets, and gambesons, answer their captain’s call and execute the maneuvers. Far from the apparent chaos, these melees follow precise rules. The goal is to strike the opponent on the torso, legs, or head. Each opponent struck must withdraw from the mele. The team with the last remaining fighter declared the winner. The fighters are first and foremost athletes; they fight for real, without any theatrics. Their mastery of their art allows them to strike without injuring. The fighters organize themselves during the mele according to the orders of their captain, who executes his strategy.