This past weekend, from November 1st to 3rd, Sant Pere de Vilamajor was transformed into the ancient “Vila Magore,” a recreated medieval festival town full of historical flair, tradition, and community spirit. This annual event, one of the most anticipated in the region, brought together thousands of visitors, each one ready to step back into the 12th century. The festival celebrates a fascinating era when “Vila Magore” was a bustling, important stop on the route between Barcelona and France. This was a time when the town regularly hosted ambassadors, merchants, pilgrims, and even high-ranking nobles like Ramon Berenguer IV, the Count of Barcelona, and his wife, Queen Peronella.
During this year’s fair, Sant Pere de Vilamajor came alive with countless activities that allowed medieval festival visitors to experience medieval life up close. The entire town was decorated to capture the spirit of the period, with medieval-themed backdrops, banners, and structures. In the medieval festival more than 300 dedicated volunteers took on various roles to create an immersive experience, from merchants in the marketplace to armored knights in staged battles. Thanks to their efforts, the attendees were able to witness an glimpse of the past, making it a opportunity for visitors of this medieval festival to walk alongside actors representing figures from centuries ago.
Also the program of events was extensive and varied in the medieval festival, catering to all ages and tastes. One of the most popular activities was the archery range, where both adults and children could test their aim with bows and arrows, learning about this skill. Meanwhile, folk dance performances filled the town, as dancers dressed in period costumes shared traditional Catalan dances with onlookers. Those looking for a bit of adventure enjoyed obstacle courses set up to represent the physical challenges. These courses included climbing, crawling, and wooden structures. Offering fun and challenging physical activities for children.
Additionally young children had their own special events to enjoy. Puppet shows enchanted young audiences with medieval stories. A designated area offered pony rides, giving children the chance to experience a medieval model of transport and a connection to the animals.
Another key point for those seeking to satisfy their hunger, a bustling food area served a variety of traditional options accordingly by medieval Catalonia. The most popular choices in the medieval festival included “bocadillos” (sandwiches) filled with “cansalada” (crispy pork belly) or “butifarra” (Catalan sausage). Alongside these, homemade “brou” (a comforting, rich broth) was served, warming guests against the cool November air and the culinary experience. This rustic menu offered fairgoers a taste of the simple yet hearty meals that were common in medieval Catalonia, as well as a connection to the flavors of the past.
During the medieval festival was also a hub for artisans and craftspeople, who set up stalls in the marketplace to sell their handmade wares. Visitors wandered among booths showcasing pottery, textiles, metalwork, jewelry, spices or local food. This marketplace was a chance for attendees to take home a piece of history. Many artisans also offered live demonstrations, showing the skill and time required to paint the pottery and leatherwork.
The highlight of the fair, however, was the musical and theatrical street performances, which transformed the entire town into a medieval festival. Parades featuring musicians playing traditional medieval instruments moved through the streets, filling the air with sounds from another era. Actors performed scenes inspired by historical events, bringing to life the stories of the people who once walked these streets. As visitors moved from one corner of town to another, they encountered scenes from daily life, battles, and courtly intrigues—all staged to bring authenticity and excitement to the experience.
10 Years of Performances of the Novel ‘Confidències d’una reina’ in the medieval festival
On July 5 and 6, 2014, scenes from the novel Confidències d’una reina by Teresa Sagrera were performed for the first time during the Vilamagore medieval festival. Adapted by Jaume Baucis and the author herself, the scenes were directed by Judit Lucchetti and interpreted by volunteer actors. This theatrical performance, re-enacted annually, now celebrates a decade at the medieval festival, becoming one of the most anticipated and beloved spectacles for many attendees.