On the upcoming 6th, 7th, and 8th of July, the commune of La Gaude and the association “GAULGAUDA” invite all generations to immerse themselves in the heart of Gallo-Roman history and traditions, around the district of Basse Gaude.
Historical Reenactments
After a journey back in time over two thousand years, the public, in costume if desired, will become witnesses to the significant clashes between Gauls and Roman legions.
They will attend gladiator battles that once set ancient arenas ablaze. In their life camp, these warriors will welcome the public and offer activities, workshops, and encounters.
The Craftsmen’s Village
In the heart of an ancient village, children and adults will try their hand at various ancestral trades such as fibula making, Roman cuisine and its secrets, pottery, blacksmithing, agriculture, and the pleasures of the baths. On the same site, an astonishing experience: the reconstruction of a bloomery showing how iron was extracted from ore in Antiquity.
A Rich Cultural Content
The most curious can learn all about the secrets of druids, Gallic warriors, and gladiators by attending lectures by JL Brunaux and B. Lopez and A. Genot. They can also admire the meticulous drawings of JP Golvin on Roman architecture thanks to the Arles Antique Museum exhibition at La Coupole.
On the same site, there will be meetings with archaeologists from the IPAAM (Institute of Prehistory and Mediterranean Alpes Archaeology), numismatists, writers, illustrators, or enthusiasts of archaeological remains from our hinterland.
Activities for Children
There will be numerous activities for children. They can train in combat at the “little gladiators’ school,” play as little archaeologists in a reconstructed excavation site, enjoy archery, play, meet comic book authors about antiquity, or be enchanted by the magic of Celtic tales.
Time for Celebration
The spirit of conviviality that characterizes this event will be present with its iconic barrel race, menhir throwing championship, and the grand legionnaire quiz.
GAULGAUDA will continue late into the night: the opening night features dancers and musicians from the group SABOÏ, a genuine festive horde leading the audience into a fire dance. The following evening, everyone can partake in the famous Gallic feast where a whole pig will be served, followed by a concert-spectacle by the group CELTIC KANAN.
