Coppenbrügger Spectaculum — Medieval Festival

A Young Medieval Festival with Ambition

The Coppenbrügger Spectaculum was launched in 2024 and has since established itself as a regional medieval festival. The event is organized by the group Der Knochenbieger in collaboration with the Castle Association and the municipality of Coppenbrügge. Unlike large commercial events, the Spectaculum deliberately focuses on a manageable size, authentic performers, and an intimate atmosphere. 2026 marks its third edition.

Coppenbrügge Castle as a Historic Stage

Coppenbrügge Castle was built in the 13th century by the Edelherren von Homburg and is located at the western foot of the Ith ridge. Today, remnants of the fortifications, the castle courtyard, and the adjacent grounds are preserved and used as a venue. The high walls and the natural setting at the edge of the Ith forest create an atmosphere that could hardly be better suited for a medieval festival.

Encampments and Craftsmen

Several groups will set up their encampments on the castle grounds. They will showcase the life of a military group or a travelling troupe in the Middle Ages—from setting up tents and cooking over an open fire to maintaining weapons. Craftsmen will present their skills: blacksmiths at the forge, woodturners on the pole lathe, leatherworkers with punches, potters at the wheel, basket weavers, and cloth weavers. Visitors can watch many demonstrations up close and often try their hand at them.

Music, Jesters, Combat Reenactments

Live music with historical instruments—bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, folk harp, shawm, bombarde, drums—creates a continuous soundscape. Several music groups will perform alternately on stage. Jesters, jugglers, and fire-breathers will entertain between the stalls, while combat reenactment groups will demonstrate medieval martial arts in staged duels. The exact lineup will be announced by the organizers in the summer of 2026.

Food and Drink from the Middle Ages

The food stalls will offer a selection inspired by medieval cuisine, complemented by modern hygiene and taste standards. Suckling pig from the spit, stews from the cauldron, bread from the wood-fired oven, smoked sausages, cheeses, and sweets like honey cake will be on the menu. Drinks include mead, honey wine, beer served in traditional clay mugs, apple cider, and non-alcoholic options.

Program for Children

A dedicated children's area will feature interactive stations: archery with soft arrows, felting, pottery, supervised wood carving, and medieval games. Families can spend several hours at the Spectaculum without the youngest visitors getting bored. Admission to the Spectaculum is usually at a reduced rate for children.