Moated castle revives Middle Ages

The village of Reipoltskirchen will host a medieval market at the bottom of its “Wasserburg,” or moated castle, Saturday and Sunday.

For the third time, this castle, which is one of the best-kept castles in the Pfalz, will be the location for medieval groups presenting the life of the Middle Ages.

The market will start at 2 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. Sunday. There will be horse shows and knight fights. Dancing groups and musicians will entertain the audience. Jugglers and witches will walk around and show off their skills. Fire-eaters will present a fire show after dark Saturday.

Vendors will sell herbs, spices, jewelry, toys, clothes, fur coats, soap, liquors, berry wines and mead. Craftsmanship presentations will include shoemaking, stone cutting and the creation of glass pearls.

Visitors can take part in archery and the use of bow and arrow. Children will enjoy a merry-go-round and learn to do pottery.

Medieval culinary specialties, such as duck legs, roast pork, onion meat, goulash, fire pot, steaks and vegetarian dishes, will be served. Cakes and coffee will be available as well.
Admission fee is €3. Visitors in medieval costumes pay €1.50. Children shorter than a sword (4 feet, 3 inches) are admitted free.

Reipoltskirchen is situated in the middle of the Odenbach Valley, north of Niederkirchen and south of Odenbach. It is more than 800 years old and is considered one of the oldest villages in Rheinland-Pfalz. The castle supposedly was erected in 1181 to help secure the valley. Today, the moat and two stories of the tower are left from the original castle.

The castle keep was renovated, and a restaurant was built around it. Its arched cellar can be used as wedding room.

For more information on the medieval market, visit www.reipoltskirchen.com/mima.