Matzenbach displays life in the Middle Ages

For the fifth time, the community of Glan-Muenchweiler will sponsor a medieval market Saturday and Sunday in Matzenbach.

Since 2009, medieval groups have come to Matzenbach every two years to present the Middle Ages.

“The Vikings will come in their rowing boat on the Glan River,” said Steffen Schultheiss from the Glan-Muenchweiler union community. “Other groups from various eras of the Middle Ages will also put up their camps in the valley along the river.”

There will a knights’ camp, vendors, craftsmen and artists.

Knights will demonstrate show fights on horses and artists will present fire shows.

At nightfall, actors in medieval costumes will demonstrate horrible scenery regarding the plague that was nearby around A.D. 1600. The so-called “black death” killed all residents of two villages in the Glan Valley, Reichsweiler and Froschweiler.

“In this performance, the plague will be defeated. To celebrate this victory, a 10-member group will present a fire show as highlight of Saturday night,” Schultheiss said.

Craftsmen such as blacksmiths, wood carvers, bow makers and pearl makers will demonstrate their skills. Vendors will sell clothes, jewelry, weapons, children’s toys and other items. Jugglers and musicians will entertain the audience throughout the days.

Visitors will find neat taverns where medieval food specialties and drinks will be served. The castle kitchen will prepare chicken, lamb, jam, game and pork specialties, as well as sweet items. The traditional meat and beer from the Middle Ages will be available to taste.

“Our community, with Mayor Klaus Schillo, hopes to be able to welcome a lot of guests to celebrate with us,” Schultheiss said.

The entrance fee is €4, but visitors in traditional costumes and children are admitted free.

The event location can be found on Eisenacher Strasse 16 in 66909 Matzenbach. From the Matzenbach train station it only takes a minute to walk to the market area.

For more information, visit www.vg-glm.de.