Since 1997, the Rendez-vous de l'Histoire has been a unique and very special venue for interaction, discussions and entertainment between historians and the general public.

Rigour and scientific consistency

Every year a scientific committee, composed of leading figures, chooses the general theme for the debates and conferences. This theme may relate to any period of history and be linked to current concerns of researchers or teachers, while being of interest to the general public.

A popular event that draws 25,000 people keen to gain a better understanding of the world

This event aims to bring the most recent historical knowledge within the reach of all. In this way, it meets a permanent need to throw light on the present by reflecting the past, and to understand the construction of historical memories that have contributed to building social and cultural identities. For teachers, it also represents a fruitful period of continuous education hailed by the state education system.

The Rendez-vous de l'histoire involves, over four days:

• Over 300 debates and conferences

Around 700 renowned speakers, historians, teachers, writers, film directors, philosophers, politicians and journalists put forward their points of view and answer the public's questions, a wonderful chance to meet those who write about and comment on history on a daily basis.

• An update on history books

A gigantic bookshop devoted wholly to history, the history book exhibition, with over 150 publishers present, gives a chance to see the wealth of contemporary publications. Over 200 writers come to dedicate their works and meet their readers.

• A film cycle

Around fifty films, fiction and documentaries, old films as well as recent productions, film and audiovisual archives. Numerous showings accompanied by debates in the presence of directors, critics and historians.

• A city that beats in time to history

Set off on an in-depth discovery of history through Blois, from unexpected and convivial angles: debates and discussions in historic cafés, gastronomic discoveries (historical dinners), shows, exhibitions…