The International Medieval Congress (IMC), the largest conference of its kind in Europe, gives scholars and medievalists from across the globe a platform to share all elements of the Middle Ages.

The convention, organised by the University’s Institute for Medieval Studies, is this week welcoming more than 2,400 attendees from 60-plus countries to the first in-person IMC since 2020. 

This year’s thematic focus – “borders” – is bridging the gap between the era's physical, ideological, and metaphorical aspects.The conference boasts 600 sessions, exploring medieval culture through public concerts, excursions, performances, book fairs and more.  

For the first time, the IMC is taking on a hybrid approach, with events available both online and in-person on the main University campus.

'Making Leeds Medieval’ programme highlights

Thursday 7 July 

As the IMC draws to a close, Making Leeds Medieval presents a host of medieval activities and displays open to the public. 

Combat Displays, 10am & 4pm  

Witness a thrilling demonstration of medieval weapons and get a unique insight into arms and armour from the early 14th century with weapons and fight experts, 3 Swords. 

Medieval Craft Fair, University Square, 10.30am-6pm  

Browse a variety of handmade medieval-inspired craft and gift items including stationery, bookbinding, musical instruments, jewellery and more.  

Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery, 12pm – 2pm  

Attendees will have the chance to examine medieval treasures from Special Collections in the Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery, which houses more than 300,000 rare books and seven kilometres of manuscripts and archives 

Music in the Marquee: Performances by Leeds Waits, 7.30-9.30pm  

The Leeds Waits, a re-creation of the official town musicians for the city of Leeds which dates back to 1530, will perform a repertoire of late medieval and renaissance music on a wide range of reproduction instruments. 

Dr Axel Muller, Director of the International Medieval Congress, said: “As we prepare to welcome over 2,400 delegates to the largest hybrid gathering in the humanities in Europe, this year’s thematic focus on ‘Borders’ will enable delegates to gather some really eye-opening insight through a range of academic sessions, excursions, performances and workshops, many of which are also open to the public. 

“It’s fantastic that we’re able to connect with our virtual delegates, whilst also welcoming attendees back to the University of Leeds for an invaluable in-person experience.”

For the full programme of events, visit the International Medieval Congress website.  

Further information  

For media enquiries please contact the University of Leeds Media Relations team via pressoffice@leeds.ac.uk.