Joan of Arc in Chinon
Joan of Arc, also known as Jeanne d’Arc in French, is a historical figure who played a significant role in the Hundred Years’ War between France and England. One of the key events in her life took place in Chinon, a commune located in the Loire Valley in France.
In 1429, Joan of Arc set out to meet King Charles VII of France, who was in Chinon at the time. She convinced the king to give her an army to help drive the English out of Orleans, a city that was under siege by the English. Joan of Arc led her army to victory in the Battle of Orleans, which was a turning point in the war. After the victory, she accompanied the king to Reims for his coronation.
Chamber of king Charles VII, in this room Joan of Arc meet the king for the first time
Joan of Arc’s success in the Battle of Orleans made her a national hero, but it also made her many enemies. The Burgundians, who were allied with the English, arrested her and sold her to the English. She was put on trial and found guilty of heresy. She was burned at the stake in Rouen in 1431.
In Chinon, visitors can visit the Royal Castle of Chinon, which was the residence of King Charles VII at the time of Joan of Arc’s visit. The castle has a room called the “Joan of Arc Room” where she is believed to have met with the king. The room has been restored and visitors can see a statue of Joan of Arc and other artifacts related to her.
In addition, the town also has a museum dedicated to the history of Joan of Arc, where visitors can learn more about her life and her role in the Hundred Years’ War. The Musée Jeanne d’Arc, located in the heart of the old town, has a collection of artifacts and documents related to Joan of Arc and a replica of the famous sword she carried.
In this old lodging Joan of Arc meet the king the second time.
Joan of Arc’s story has been the subject of many books, plays, and films, but visiting Chinon and the Royal Castle of Chinon gives visitors a chance to experience the historical setting where she met King Charles VII and convinced him to give her an army and where she became a national hero. Chinon offers a glimpse into the past and allows visitors to understand the historical significance of Joan of Arc’s actions.
Joan of Arc’s story is also part of Chinon’s rich history, and the town has many other historical sites to visit, such as the old town, the church of Saint-Maurice, and the vineyards, which are all UNESCO World Heritage sites. The town is also a great destination for wine tourism, outdoor activities and a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.
In conclusion, Chinon is a town that played a significant role in the life of Joan of Arc, a historical figure who played a key role in the Hundred Years’ War. Visitors can learn more about her by visiting the Royal Castle of Chinon, the Joan of Arc Room, and the Musée Jeanne d’Arc. Chinon offers a glimpse into the past and allows visitors to understand the historical significance of Joan of Arc’s actions and it’s also a great destination to explore the rich history and culture of the Loire Valley.