Camp du Drap d’Or

About

Camp du Drap d’Or Association

The Camp du Drap d’Or association perpetuates the memory of this diplomatic event through historical re-enactments. They organize and take part in various events, meals and shows, as well as a wide range of special events.

A sumptuous encounter

In the 16th century, the country was at war, with the English occupying Calais and the Spanish Saint-Omer. Ardres, a French town, was next door to Guînes, occupied by the English. In 1520, Ardres welcomed François I, who met Henry VIII of England at the Camp du Drap d’Or. The aim of this diplomatic meeting was to find a compromise alliance between the kingdoms of France and England, in order to stand up to the Emperor Charles V.

The meeting between the two sovereigns lasted three weeks, during which the courts of both parties displayed all their pomp and wealth with feasts, banquets and tournaments. Despite all the luxury and effort expended on the occasion, the meeting at the Camp du Drap d’Or ended in failure, and François I launched work to fortify the town of Ardres. The following year, 1521, Ardres was besieged by the Spanish.

The Camp of the Cloth of Gold is a historic event that took place from June 4 to 7, 1520, a diplomatic meeting between Henry VIII, King of England, and Francis I, King of France.