King Richard II, also known as Richard the Lionheart in Chinon

Abbaye de Fontevraud

The gisant of the king Richard Lionheart in the Abbaye of Fontevraud, near of Chinon.

 

He was King of England from 1189 to 1199. He is known for his military prowess and his role in the Third Crusade. He also played a significant role in the history of Chinon.

King Richard II spent much of his time in Chinon during the late 12th century. The town was an important center of power in the region and it served as a royal residence. The king built a castle on a hill above the town, known as the Royal Castle of Chinon, which served as his primary residence. The castle is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and it offers a glimpse into the life of the king and the medieval period.

During his time in Chinon, King Richard II played an important role in the politics of the region. He was involved in the conflicts between the French King Philip II and his own father, King Henry II. He also established the town as a center of administration and justice.

King Richard II is also known for his military campaigns, in particular, the Third Crusade. He left Chinon to join the Crusade in 1190 and he was away from the town for several years. He returned to Chinon in 1194, after the Crusade was over.

Today, visitors can explore the Royal Castle of Chinon, which was the residence of King Richard II during his time in Chinon. The castle has been well-preserved and it offers a glimpse into the life of the king and the medieval period. The castle also 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 of Chinon 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, King Richard II  played a significant role in the history of Chinon. He spent much of his time in Chinon during the late 12th century, and the Royal Castle of Chinon, which he built, is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and it offers a glimpse into the life of the king and the medieval period. Chinon is a great destination for history enthusiasts and visitors interested in learning more about King Henry II and his legacy.

 

The Face of Lionheart in Chinon

 

Lionheart Family
polychrome representation of the Plantagenet family in Chinon


Saint Radegonde was a queen consort of the Frankish King Chilperic I of Neustria. She was also a significant historical figure who played a role in the life of King Richard the Lionheart, also known as Richard Cœur de Lion, who was King of England from 1189 to 1199.

Saint Radegonde was born in the 6th century in the region of Chinon, France. She was the daughter of a local ruler and she was married to King Chilperic I of Neustria. However, she later left him and became a nun at the Convent of the Holy Cross in Poitiers. She then founded the Convent of the Holy Cross in Chinon, where she lived for the rest of her life.

During the 12th century, King Richard the Lionheart, who was a powerful ruler in the region, visited the Convent of the Holy Cross in Chinon, where Saint Radegonde was residing. He was deeply impressed by her holiness and devotion, and he became a patron of the convent. He also established a connection with Saint Radegonde, and she became a spiritual advisor to him.

King Richard the Lionheart spent much of his time in Chinon during the late 12th century, and he built a castle on a hill above the town, known as the Royal Castle of Chinon, which served as his primary residence. The castle is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and it offers a glimpse into the life of the king and the medieval period.

In conclusion, Saint Radegonde was a significant historical figure who played a role in the life of King Richard the Lionheart. She was a queen consort and later became a nun and founded the Convent of the Holy Cross in Chinon. King Richard the Lionheart was deeply impressed by her holiness and devotion, and he established a connection with her and she became a spiritual advisor to him. Chinon is a great destination for history enthusiasts and visitors interested in learning more about Saint Radegonde, King Richard the Lionheart and their connection.