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

Our Travelers’ Reviews

Lynne & Jeff
In 2013 I had 2 big reasons to plan a trip to France: a new grand baby boy in Avignon, and I wanted to surprise my husband with a trip to Normandy. He absolutely loves anything and everything he can find to read or watch that is related to WWII. So, I started exploring online for a custom tour designer that could put together a great itinerary for …
Sharon & Bob
We couldn't recommend France Just For You highly enough. After visiting various parts of Europe on our own we were delighted to have someone else attend to all the details. Emilie was a joy to work with and couldn't have chosen better B&B's, tours and day trips to meet our needs. I can't wait to call upon her services again!
Clemmer & David
France Just for You - Emile and Laura - accomplished the task with skill and knowledge. Accommodations were excellent with lots of local color, suggestions for parking a large SUV were helpful, solving on the spot problems was handled with expertise and courtesy, sites were overwhelmingly beautiful. The guide book is the best. All the guides were …

Our Travelers’ Photos

Christina & her niece
from Australia
In the Wolves Sanctuary in Guéret
Karen & Mike
from the US
Visiting Chambord in the Loire Valley
Michele, Jacques, Nicole, Gaetan, Joanne & Keith
from Canada
In the Loire Valley
Athena, Joanne, Don & Paul
from the US
Spending a day biking in the Loire Valley
Linda
From Australia
Making Chou-Buns at Valerie's
Bruce from Australia
Cooking outdoor in Provence, bon appétit !
Georganna, Caroline & Julia
In Etretat cliffs
Kathy & David
from Canada
In Avignon, Provence
Jane & Ron
From Canada
Visiting the Opéra Garnier, in Paris
Kathy & Mark
from the US
Truffle Hunting in Provence
Leslie & Bill
from the US
Behing the giant clock in Orsay museum
Gary, Barbara, Lori and Ron
from the US
After a cooking class in Provence

Last Blog Articles