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

Amy & Louise
Wine tasting....
Pam & Rick
From the US
Tasting some oysters and white wine in the Basque Country
Karen & Tony
From Australia
In Villandry Gardens, in the Loire Valley
Ron
From the US
Cycling in the Loire Valley vineyards
Trea & Anna
From the US
In a little town in Provence
Ruth & Mary-Ann
From the US
In front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
Greg, Laurie, Laura & Jeff
From the US
With their B&B host near Mont Saint Michel
Patty
from the US
In Villeneuve les Avignon, Provence
Frederick
from Canada
Enjoying some cheese
Our guide with Jean's team
In the quicksands in Mont Saint Michel bay
Shirley & Brad
from Canada
On a honeymoon in Dordogne
Andy
from the US
Enjoying a drink on a brasserie terrace in Paris

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