In this personal contribution, Beatriz explains how historical reenactment grew from a childhood fascination into an important part of her life. She takes the reader through a wide range of historical periods, from the early Middle Ages to the eighteenth century.
Along the way, she describes the research, craftsmanship, and continuous development behind historical clothing and living history. Above all, her story focuses on community. By learning together, developing ambitious projects, and attending events, she found meaningful friendships and a place where curiosity, creativity, knowledge, and personal growth come together.
Beatriz' story:
Finding My Place Through History
Some passions stay with us from childhood. I have always been fascinated by history, historical aesthetics, novels, and films set in the medieval world. Ever since I was young, I dreamed of owning a period dress, although I have to admit that Hollywood had given me a rather romanticised idea of medieval clothing.
I entered the world of historical reenactment at the age of 21. I started alongside people who are no longer part of my group today, but to whom I will always be grateful for everything I learned and experienced with them. Those first steps—with all their successes, mistakes, and unforgettable velvet fantasy gowns—marked the beginning of a journey that has become one of the most meaningful parts of my life.
I wanted to get closer to the past, to touch it and, in a way, to live it. That is how historical reenactment gradually became an increasingly important part of my life.
XII CENTURY
Today I recreate a broad range of historical periods, from the 8th to the 18th century (and soon the 6th century BC). Together with my close group of friends, I explore different cultures, societies, and ways of life. Every period brings a new challenge: researching clothing, sourcing authentic materials, studying customs, learning traditional crafts, and striving to represent the past with both respect and historical accuracy.
Historical reenactment is far more than simply putting on a costume. Every garment, accessory, and scene is the result of countless hours of research, discussion, experimentation, and craftsmanship. Even the smallest detail can lead to weeks of investigation. An illustration, a historical text, a museum artefact, or an archaeological discovery can become the starting point for an entirely new project.
Nothing in this field should ever be taken for granted. Archaeological research is constantly evolving, and new discoveries sometimes reshape what we believed to be true or offer fresh interpretations of ideas we learned years ago.
XI CENTURY
That is why I always try to keep an open mind, continue learning, and refine every project—even if it means leaving some older work behind.
Every serious reenactor strives for the highest possible level of historical authenticity. That goal is not always easy to achieve. Personal circumstances, limited time, and the cost of materials all influence what we are able to accomplish.
Many of us would love to make a living from this passion, but in reality it remains a hobby that we balance with work, family, and everyday responsibilities.
Even so, every step forward is worthwhile. Every improvement, no matter how small, brings us closer to the people who lived before us—real people with hopes, worries, friendships, hardships, and moments of happiness.
Yet the greatest treasure I have found on this journey is not something displayed in a museum or written in a book: it is the people.
Historical reenactment has given me genuine friendships. I have met people with whom I can truly be myself, laugh freely, be silly without judgement, and enjoy every moment without pretending to be someone I am not. They are also the people with whom I can share ideas and bring ambitious projects to life.
They constantly encourage and support me, making even the most challenging ideas feel achievable. Through them I have learned, travelled, discovered new events, and met many remarkable people who have enriched my life both historically and personally.
IX CENTURY
These friendships began through a shared passion for history, but over time they grew into something much deeper. Preparing events together, travelling, sharing the excitement, facing long and exhausting days, laughing, and overcoming unexpected challenges creates truly special bonds.
Some friendships begin in the most unexpected places: around a campfire, while setting up camp, finishing a garment at the last minute, or helping each other before the gates of an event open.
In time, fellow reenactors often become true friends.
Historical reenactment also offers something especially valuable in today's world: an escape and a sense of peace. For a few hours, everyday responsibilities, mobile phones, and the constant flow of news fade into the background. Walking into a living-history camp, hearing the sound of traditional tools, lighting a fire, or wearing historical clothing allows you to leave the present behind and immerse yourself completely in the experience.
It also nurtures creativity and knowledge. Every event is an opportunity to learn something new and share it with others. No one knows everything, which is why collaboration is at the heart of this hobby. Some people specialise in clothing, others in cooking, weaponry, craftsmanship, music, or daily life. When all of that knowledge comes together, the experience becomes richer not only for reenactors but also for the public who come to visit us.
What makes me proudest is having found—and helped build—a place where I can learn, create, and grow. I am proud of every project I have completed, every mistake that has helped me improve, and every person whose curiosity about history I have managed to spark.
I also believe it is important to make this world welcoming and accessible to everyone. You do not need to be an expert, own perfect equipment, or know every detail from day one. Nobody starts out knowing everything. What truly matters is curiosity, approaching the past with respect, finding people willing to share their knowledge, and always remaining open to learning and improving.
I entered this world because I was drawn to the past, but I stayed because of the people in the present. Perhaps that is the greatest lesson historical reenactment has taught me: times may change, but the human need to create, learn, share, and feel that we belong remains timeless.
XIV CENTURY
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