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

Dina & Jim
from the US
Who just received their travel pack at home
Roy & Maureen
From Australia
In Biarritz Food Market, enjoying some white wine with oysters
Kathy & Steve from the US
Having dinner at the B&B in the Loire Valley
Don with his hostess Oriana
From the US
At the hotel in Lyon
Karla, Lee, Irm, Joel, Brenda & Eugene
from the US
At a restaurant
Shirley & Brad
from Canada
On a honeymoon in Dordogne
Bill & Leslie
from the US
Visiting a wine cellar in the Loire Valley
Harry
From Australia
In the War Cemetery in Normandy
Muriel & Michael
from the US
In Utah Beach, Normandy
Shirley
from Canada
In lavender fields in Provence
Georgia & Matt from Australia
Cooking fresh stawberries from Carpentras in Provence
Maureen & Victor
from the US
Visiting an Abbey in the Loire Valley

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