Knights, Crafts, and Medieval Merriment at the Staufen Castle Ruins above Oppenheim
The Landskron Castle Ruins have towered over Oppenheim and the Rhine since the early 13th century. In the very place where the Staufen emperors once built their imperial castle, the Middle Ages come alive again for a weekend. The Oppenheim Medieval Market combines the unique backdrop of the ruins with the expansive Bürgerwiese meadow in front to create a stage for historical customs, crafts, and conviviality.
Over forty carefully selected stalls form the heart of the event. Merchants offer leather and felt goods, blacksmith art, drinking horns, herbs, mead, medieval clothing, and handmade jewelry. Craftspeople demonstrate their skills: at the loom, in the forge, with pottery, and in leatherworking. Children can try their hand at candle dipping or test their skills at archery.
Several encampments from various groups line the meadow. Between tents, open fires, and improvised guard posts, reenactors tell of daily life in the 12th and 13th centuries, of the lives of castle inhabitants, servants, and traveling minstrels. Music groups with hurdy-gurdy, bagpipes, shawm, and drums move through the market, creating a dense, almost meditative atmosphere with their sounds.
The market is a cooperation between the city of Oppenheim and the event organizer group Lorraine Médiévale, known nationwide for their atmospheric medieval markets. The concept focuses on authentic costumes, handmade goods, and a familial coexistence between participants and visitors.
For visitors, the ascent to the castle ruins also offers a wide view over the vineyards of Rheinhessen, the Rhine Valley, and, in clear weather, as far as the Taunus mountains. The combination of history, landscape, and medieval revelry makes the Oppenheim Medieval Market one of the most charming events in the region's calendar.
The 2026 edition continues the proven concept of market, camp life, and demonstrations. On Saturday evening, the castle ruins will offer a particularly atmospheric backdrop at dusk with torches and fire bowls. Sunday will focus on the family program with hands-on activities for children and demonstrations by craftspeople and knights.
The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in the spring. The structure follows the proven cornerstones of previous years.
Oppenheim is located on the Mainz–Worms railway line (RB, RE), Oppenheim station is within walking distance of the town center. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to the Landskron Castle Ruins via the old town. By car, take the B9 or A63/A61; parking is available in the town center and at the festival grounds.
The ascent to the castle ruins is on foot via the historic old town. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the terrain is partly uneven.
Standard day ticket prices apply. Current information is available from the City of Oppenheim and the organizer Lorraine Médiévale.
Program for children with hands-on activities, archery, and small demonstrations. Children in costume are especially welcome.
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