Description
History: The Company of 1602 commemorates, every year, the anniversary of the Battle of Escalade which took place on the night of December 11 to 12, 1602. It was an unsuccessful attempt by Charles-Emmanuel I, Duke of Savoy, to surprise Geneva by scaling its walls. It thus recreates, over three days, scenes from daily life in Geneva at the dawn of the 17th century. With over 2,000 members, it is today the largest historical society in our country. Among its ranks are citizens of all ages, origins, and confessions. Program: The Company of 1602 animates the streets of the old town of Geneva. Groups of fifes, drums, brass instruments, arquebusiers, pikemen, cavalry patrols, and our cannon “Falco” parade, march, and showcase life in the 17th century. During the weekend, you have the opportunity to dine in the city. Our stalls offer the Escalade badge, publications, and many other products for sale. In the evening, the streets are lit by torchbearers and torchlights. During the grand parade, hot wine and lantern sales are offered. Some demonstrations are subject to favorable weather conditions. - Detailed program and schedule 2026 to come: https://www.1602.ch/Highlights
- Historical reenactment of the Battle of Escalade 1602
- Entertainment with fifes, drums, and cavalry
- Food and sale of local products
General Information
The Escalade festival takes place every year in Geneva to commemorate the 1602 battle. For three days, the old town is lively with historical reenactments and parades, offering an immersion into 17th-century Geneva life.
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