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Glencairn Museum’s Medieval Festival to feature mock feast, catapult demonstration, Celtic folk music Glencairn Museum, housed in a 10-story Romanesque-style mansion in Bryn Athyn, will recreate a medieval festival from 1 to 5 p.m. Feb. 9, complete with a mock feast, royal court, live Celtic folk music and an interactive catapult demonstration. Glencairn’s medieval sculpture and art, intricate mosaic and stained glass provide an authentic backdrop for the museum’s annual celebration of the art, religion and culture of medieval Europe. Glencairn, built from 1928 to 1939 by Raymond and Mildred Pitcairn, was designed partly to house their medieval collection. According to Glencairn historians, the Pitcairns began collecting the art to serve as an inspiration for the artists and craftsmen who, in the 1910s and ‘20s were building the Bryn Athyn Cathedral. Interacting with visitors in Glencairn’s Great Hall will be members of the “Royal Court,” including the king, queen and court jester. Visitors will experience the customs of the times when they sit down to a mock feast or learn about life in a castle and castle building. Modeled after a real medieval pilgrimage, Glencairn will offer a trip through the museum following the symbols of Saint James found throughout the building. Visitors also can learn about medieval illuminated manuscripts by viewing authentic manuscripts from Glencairn’s vaults, and anyone interested in medieval machinery can participate in a demonstration of a catapult. Lending authenticity to the day will be the Celtic folk music of sisters known as the “Four Calling Birds” featuring the violin, viola, piano, hammered and mountain dulcimers. Admission to the festival is $8; $4 for museum members and free for children 5 and under free. Anyone dressed in medieval garb will receive a $1 discount. Glencairn is located at 1001 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn. Information and directions: 215-938-2600 or www.glencairnmuseum.org.
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