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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Our Travelers’ Photos

Steve & Diana
from California
in Normandy
Jilly & Marc
from the US
in Paris
Harry & Caroline
From Australia
Wine & Cheese Tasting
Peter
from Canada
Truffle Hunting in Dordogne
Beverley & John
from Canada
In front of the Louvre pyramid in Paris
Clemmer & Dennis
From the US
After folding the US flag in the Meuse Argonne War Cemetery - Eastern France
Theresa & Bill
From the US
Between the vineyards & the lavenders in Provence
Bill & Leslie
from the US
Visiting a wine cellar in the Loire Valley
Sharon & Bob
from Canada
Meeting with us in the Loire Valley (with Guillaume, Jeanne and Pauline)
Dennis
from Australia
Hiking in the Dentelles in Provence
Karen
from the US
Eating lunch at Jules Verne restaurant at the top of the Eiffel tower
Greg, Laurie, Laura & Jeff
From the US
With their B&B host near Mont Saint Michel

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