Car boot sale of the Assemblée de Mai in Richelieu

Richelieu's Grande Rue Transformed into a Flea Market

Every first Sunday in May, the Grande Rue and the place des Religieuses in Richelieu host a large car boot sale and flea market as part of the Assemblée de Mai. Dozens of exhibitors – private individuals and antique dealers – set up their stalls in this unique architectural perspective inherited from Cardinal de Richelieu. Clothing, toys, trinkets, books, tableware, and second-hand items attract bargain hunters from all over the region. The funfair completes the festive atmosphere of this popular day.

Richelieu, the Cardinal's Ideal City

Richelieu is a commune of about 1,800 inhabitants located south of Indre-et-Loire, on the border of Poitou. This ideal city was designed in the 17th century by the architect Jacques Lemercier on the orders of Cardinal Richelieu: a perfect grid plan, monumental market halls, symmetrical private mansions, and fortified walls make this town a unique example of classical urban planning in France. The traditional Galopade, a costumed parade, has accompanied the Assemblée de Mai for generations.

A Festive and Popular First Sunday in May

The Assemblée de Mai combines a flea market, funfair, food stalls, and entertainment in a warm village atmosphere. The 17th-century market halls sometimes host some of the exhibitors. Parking is available on the outskirts of the town. Admission is free.