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

Sally & Mike
From the US
With their hosts in the Loire Valley
Jim
From Australia
With his guide in Provence
Tonya & Robert
From the US
In Versailles - Hall of Mirrors
Stephanie & Vania
from Canada
At the top of Aiguille du Midi, by the Mont Blanc, in the French Alps
Bridget & Tyler
from the US
In Monet's house kitchen in Giverny
Greg, Laurie, Laura & Jeff
From the US
With their B&B host near Mont Saint Michel
Gary, Barbara, Lori and Ron
from the US
After a cooking class in Provence
Trea & Anna
From the US
In a little town in Provence
Anna & Trea - From the US - in a castle in Provence
Anna & Trea
From the US
In a Castle in Provence
Julie, Mary-Jo, Ben & Kevin
From the US
In the Loire Valley
Judy & Rich
from the US
in Giverny, Normandy
Linda, Danny & their son Chris
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In Mont Saint Michel

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