The best MTB trails around Chalaines

⚜️ The Story of Joan of Arc ⚜️ She was born in Domrémy-la-Pucelle in 1412 to a peasant family. At the age of 13, she began hearing voices telling her to save France from the English. She left her village to seek help from King Charles VII and reclaim the French throne. Joan of Arc successfully convinced King Charles VII to grant her an army. She led this army to several victories against the English, including the liberation of Orléans in 1429. This victory marked a turning point in the Hundred Years' War and led to the defeat of the English. Joan of Arc was captured by the English in 1430. She was tried and burned at the stake in 1431 in Rouen. However, her popularity continued to grow after her death. She was canonized by the Catholic Church in 1920.

In this town, you'll visit the birthplace of the French heroine Joan of Arc. This simple house is adorned with a beautiful small garden and a statue of the Maid of Orleans. Opposite is the church with Joan's baptismal font. An interesting historical museum can also be visited. A contemporary historical event on our Meuse bike tour

We particularly enjoyed the history of the town, situated on the Meuse River. The beautiful town hall was built in 1847/48 on the site of a monastery in the Italian Renaissance style. In front of the town hall stands the gigantic equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, revered by the French. This cast-iron monument weighs 2.5 tons. Joan is said to have conquered the city. There is also a Joan of Arc Museum in the town.

Joan of Arc's birthplace dates back to the 15th century and is now a listed building. Right next door is the new "Faces of Joan" presentation center, redesigned in 2020. Here, you can experience a detailed tour that paints a comprehensive picture of Joan—from her childhood in Domrémy to current adaptations of her story.

The house of Jacques d'Arc, Joan's father, has been the object of continuous pilgrimages since the end of the 16th century. Since Jeanne's time, the house, so recognizable by its gable roof, has however undergone numerous modifications and rearrangements: For example, in the 18th century, the building was integrated into a larger property, in which it was used agricultural annex (wine cellar and bread oven). https://maisonjeannedarc.vosges.fr

Gothic-style Catholic church, built in the 13th century and expanded several times over the centuries. Joan of Arc, who left a strong mark on this region, was baptized here in 1412.

The Chapelle Sainte-Anne de Broyes is a small chapel dating from the 19th century, nestled in the woods near Epiez-sur-Meuse. It was built on the site of an ancient hermitage and is dedicated to Saint Anne, the patroness of mothers and grandmothers. Every year, on July 26, a pilgrimage is organized in his honor. The chapel is surrounded by a natural spring which is said to have healing properties. You can enjoy the tranquility of this place and admire the neo-Gothic architecture. You will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the valley.

The music group OMD (Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark) dedicated a song to JEANNE d'ARC, known in German-speaking countries as "Johanna von Orleans", the patron saint of France (1412? to 1431): "Maid of Orleans" . The song, which was number 1 in Germany for several weeks, can be found on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmwMhjbThKg