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History festival to bring city's rich past to life

Paul JohnsonEast Yorkshire and Lincolnshire
News imageCity of Lincoln Council Two re-enactors holding weapons and wearing replica medieval clothing face off against one another in a makeshift arena watched by a crowd of spectators. On the left, a young man wearing a white tunic looks angry as he prepares to swing an axe while holding a white and green, round shield. Facing him is another man wearing a blue tunic and holding a similar shield, whose back is to the camera. In the background, spectators are smiling and taking pictures.City of Lincoln Council

Romans are set to mingle with Vikings and Normans at a festival of history in Lincoln.

The event from 2 to 4 May aims to bring "pivotal moments" from the city's past to life.

There will be four themed zones around the city, including a Knight Academy and a Viking Arena.

Among the highlights of the free Lincoln Festival of History will be a Roman market in Castle Square, including live demonstrations of ancient crafts such as baking, carpentry and tile making.

News imageA man dressed as a Roman blacksmith, with a white tunic and a brown apron, tends to smouldering coals in a wooden crate while surrounded with iron-working equipment under an open canvas tent.
A blacksmith during the festival in 2025

Romans conquered the region in AD50 and established Lindum Colonia, which grew into a major settlement for retired soldiers.

Relics of Roman Lincoln survive today, including the 3rd Century Newport Arch.

During the festival, Viking warriors will patrol City Square while a Norman kitchen will serve food in Cornhill Square.

The Knight Academy, in St Paul in the Bail, will offer an insight into medieval weaponry.

Alongside the themed zones, activities and living history experiences will be staged at Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral.

Listen to highlights fromLincolnshire on BBC Sounds, and watch thelatest episode of Look North.

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