Joan of Arc is a widely known historical figure, famous for her ferocity and patriotism to France. Nowadays, she is considered a national heroine. The young girl named La Pucelle (the virgin-warrior) is an example of how the convictions of a simple and illiterate peasant can change the faith of an entire nation.

The Archangel Michael apparently revealed to Joan that she must “drive the English out of France”. Following these divine words, Joan of Arc went to Chinon after her 17th birthday to meet with the Dauphin (the eldest son of the King of France).

joan of arc in chinon loire valley

She convinced the prince (the future Charles VII of France) that she could rescue Orléans from the English invasion during the Hundred Years War.

You may follow Joan of Arc's footsteps in the old city of Chinon, and even find the well onto which she used to step when dismounting her horse.

Under her leadership, as she predicted, the French won against the English on May 7th, 1428. However, a tragic destiny was awaiting her. She was captured and sold to the English in 1430. Accused of witchcraft, she was burned at the stake in Rouen in Normandy at the age of 19. Ever since, she has been an emblematic martyr and was canonized much later in 1920. 

joan of arc in rouen

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Tracey & Sandra
Without a doubt one of the best vacations my friend and I have ever taken! We keep raving to all about how authentic the trip was. Not only was every aspect of this trip gorgeous from the grape vineyards to the lavender fields to the mountainous towns and cathedrals, but the details were second to none. Emilie and Laura provided my friend and I …
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Our Travelers’ Photos

Leslie & Family
from the US
A la Tour Eiffel, Paris
Roberta & Terry
At their B&B near Aix-en-Provence
David
From the US
Celebrating his 80th birthday at a cooking class in Burgundy
Cynthia & Roger
from the US
Wine Tasting in the Loire Valley
Jim
From Australia
At the top of the Rhune mount in the Basque Country
Leslie & Bob
from the US
in Cassis Creeks near Marseille in Provence
Julie, Mary-Jo, Ben & Kevin
From the US
In the Loire Valley
The Loo Family
From Malaysia
Visiting an out of the beaten track abbey in the Loire valley, with its owner
Bev & John
from Canada
in Bordeaux
Rory
From the US
Enjoying a croissant at the B&B in Burgundy
Arnold from Singapore
Is making his first French "choux"
Diana & Michael
A glass of wine in the Provence vineyards, what else ?

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