https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog daily 0.75 2026-03-16 https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/mont-saint-michel-faith-fortifications-and-the-plantagenets monthly 0.5 2026-03-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0d075013-4837-41e1-8521-87ef28eab27d/mont-saint-michel-causeway-approach-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Mont Saint-Michel - Faith, Fortification and the Plantagenets - As we approached along the road, our jaws slowly dropped. Ahead of us, rising from the wide sweep of sand and sky, stood a place that seemed almost unreal, as though it belonged as much to legend as it did to history. But the real magic happened as we left the road behind and began the final approach across the causeway. Whether arriving by shuttle or on foot, the ancient walls draw closer until you pass through the gate and enter a place that has welcomed pilgrims, soldiers, and travellers for more than a thousand years. Read on to discover one of France’s most incredible places, where faith, resilience, and history have stood together for centuries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/31651e07-2300-4cec-a6d1-0b8c2b3fe129/mont-saint-michel-medieval-lane-stone-streets-history-plantagenet-discoveries.JPG Blog - Mont Saint-Michel - Faith, Fortification and the Plantagenets - Crossing the Causeway Entering the Mont feels like stepping across a threshold in time. The great stone walls rise around you, worn smooth in places by centuries of hands and weather, and suddenly you find you are no longer simply visiting, but part of a place that feels both ancient and alive. Almost immediately the narrow streets begin to climb. Cobbled underfoot and lined with tall medieval buildings that lean close together, the lanes twist upward, guiding you toward something just out of sight, something mysterious. Little alleyways appear between doorways, staircases rise unexpectedly around corners, and everywhere there is stone, worn smooth by the countless souls who, over the centuries, were drawn here by faith. And yet the Mont is far from silent. Voices drift through the streets, footsteps echo on the cobbles, and visitors pause often, looking upward toward the abbey that seems to watch over it all. The place hums with life and movement, much as it would have done when pilgrims once arrived here after long journeys across Normandy. Even so, beneath the bustle there is something else, something harder to explain. A sense that you are walking through layers of time, where faith, defence, and daily life once intertwined within these narrow streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fea32bdd-841a-43ab-bd17-0d8d5a9e7d49/mont-saint-michel-abbey-rising-above-rock-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Mont Saint-Michel - Faith, Fortification and the Plantagenets - Drawn by Faith Today we visit Mont Saint-Michel as tourists, snapping photos and marvelling that sites like this have stood for centuries. However, during the Middle Ages, people came here not simply to visit, but because they believed they were being called. Pilgrimage in the medieval world was far more than travel. It was an act of devotion, sometimes undertaken in hope of healing, sometimes in gratitude, and just as often, as an act of penance. Men and women from across France, England, and beyond would set out on long and often difficult journeys, driven by the belief that certain places held a spiritual significance unlike any other. And this tiny island off the coast of Normandy was one of those places… Long before the modern causeway was built, reaching the island was far from straightforward. Pilgrims approaching Mont Saint-Michel had to cross the wide tidal flats that stretch across the bay, a landscape that could shift from firm sand to rushing water with startling speed. To accomplish this themselves was extremely dangerous so travellers were often dependent upon experienced guides who knew the safest routes across the sands and the rhythms of the tides. However, misjudge the timing, and the rising waters could very quickly turn the journey into something far more perilous than pilgrims had originally anticipated. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ddd6cee8-342f-4247-a323-d51beca8f5be/saint-michael-statue-eglise-saint-pierre-mont-saint-michel-history-plantagenet-discoveries.JPG Blog - Mont Saint-Michel - Faith, Fortification and the Plantagenets - The reason for its popularity as a pilgrimage site lies in a story that has shaped this island for more than a thousand years. According to tradition, in the early eighth century the Archangel Michael appeared to Aubert, the Bishop of Avranches, instructing him to build a sanctuary on the rocky outcrop rising from the tidal bay. At first Aubert hesitated, unsure whether the vision was truly divine. But the story goes that the archangel appeared again, and then a third time, until the bishop began to realise that the command should not be ignored. Eventually responding to what he believed was a divine command, in 708 he established a small sanctuary dedicated to Saint Michael on the rocky summit. What began as a modest place of worship soon drew increasing numbers of pilgrims, eager to honour the archangel who, in Christian belief, was seen as both protector and guide of souls. Over the centuries that followed, the sanctuary gradually grew. Monks settled on the island in the tenth century, and successive generations expanded the buildings into the remarkable abbey complex that now crowns the summit. Rising tier upon tier above the village streets, the abbey became both a spiritual beacon and a symbol of devotion visible from miles across the tidal bay. While the abbey dominates the skyline and draws the eye upward from almost every corner of the island, there is another place of worship on the Mont that is far easier to overlook. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/718a5783-4326-4934-b73c-0d2c95186699/mont-saint-michel-fortified-walls-tower-flag-history-plantagenet-discoveries.JPG Blog - Mont Saint-Michel - Faith, Fortification and the Plantagenets - So while the early Plantagenet years were relatively peaceful for the island, moving forward more than two centuries later to the early 15th century, we find the story of Mont Saint-Michel takes a very different turn. As the long conflict between England and France unfolded during the Hundred Years’ War, Normandy became a battleground, and one by one the great towns and fortresses of the region fell into English hands. Yet this small rocky island, rising from the tidal bay and crowned by its abbey, proved far more difficult to conquer than many had imagined, not least of all the English themselves. The island’s natural defences played a crucial role in its survival. Surrounded by wide tidal flats that could transform rapidly with the rising sea, the Mont was well isolated, even in times of peace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d63fba12-b03a-436f-9dfe-1164109f30f1/mont-saint-michel-bay-sunset-view-from-walls-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Mont Saint-Michel - Faith, Fortification and the Plantagenets - When the Island Grows Quiet As the day draws to a close, Mont Saint-Michel begins to change. The crowds that filled the narrow streets throughout the afternoon gradually drift away, returning across the causeway to the mainland. What remains behind is something altogether different. The island grows quieter, the light softens, and the great abbey that dominated the skyline all day now seems to gently fall asleep. Standing on the walls and watching the sun sink slowly across the bay, it feels almost as though the Mont itself is preparing for rest, in rhythm with the fading light of the day. That evening, after dinner, many of us wandered out again to watch the sunset. The view across the bay was magnificent, the sky turning shades of gold and amber as the light slipped slowly toward the horizon. It was one of those rare moments where everything seems perfectly balanced. The island, the sea, the sky, all moving together toward the quiet of night. For me, there was also a quiet sense of completion. As a tour host, there is always a small moment of reflection at the end of the day, a feeling of satisfaction when everything has unfolded as hoped. Watching the sunset from the walls of this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site, it felt very much like the beautiful closing of a perfect chapter in our journey. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-13-richard-ii-from-promise-to-provocation monthly 0.5 2026-03-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/6606005d-ae88-4023-9973-703a121bbe29/richard-ii-wilton-diptych-divine-kingship-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 13) - Richard II - From Promise to Provocation - England had been governed in careful balance. Authority exercised in the young king’s name, yet not fully by him. That arrangement brought stability but certainty had faded. In its place stood inexperience. And England adjusted itself to necessity. Necessity, though, cannot define a reign forever. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1dd1353b-740b-4fab-89a5-479ed8c2b983/peasants-revolt-1381-richard-ii-smithfield-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 13) - Richard II - From Promise to Provocation - The Boy Who Faced a Kingdom in Revolt In June 1381, unrest that had been simmering for years finally ignited. What we now call the Peasants' Revolt swept through the south of England and into London itself. Years of war taxation, especially the deeply unpopular poll taxes, had strained ordinary people to breaking point. Anger found its voice. This was not a scattered disturbance. It was organised and purposeful. Rebels moved through London targeting symbols of authority. Debt prisons were opened and prisoners released. Legal and tax records were dragged into the streets and burned, an attempt to erase obligations and wipe away the written proof of what was owed. Certain individuals were singled out. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Simon Sudbury, who had served as Lord Chancellor, was seized and executed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/39745217-34e0-4f27-a316-6721e9442d36/richard-ii-lords-appellant-merciless-parliament-1388-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 13) - Richard II - From Promise to Provocation - Growing into Kingship The revolt was suppressed within weeks. Concessions that had been promised were gradually withdrawn. Order returned, at least outwardly. Richard was still only fourteen. Yet he had witnessed how quickly authority could fracture. He had seen senior officials executed. He had watched London burn. It is difficult to imagine that such lessons faded easily. As the years passed, he stepped more confidently into his role. Councils still advised, but Richard was no longer simply observing. He was forming loyalties and shaping the court in ways that reflected his own preferences. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/54ccefb8-5fc0-4598-9699-fd4ad0cf05f9/richard-ii-westminster-abbey-portrait-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 13) - Richard II - From Promise to Provocation - The Quarrel That Changed Everything By 1398, Richard’s authority appeared secure. He had reasserted control over those who had once constrained him. The court was orderly. The king’s dignity unmistakable. Then a dispute erupted between two men who had once stood together among the Lords Appellant: Henry Bolingbroke and Thomas de Mowbray, 1st Duke of Norfolk. The accusation was serious. Bolingbroke claimed that Mowbray had spoken treason against the king. Mowbray denied it. In a society where honour and loyalty were paramount, such a charge could not simply be ignored. The matter escalated toward trial by combat. At Coventry, on 16 September 1398, the lists were prepared. Nobles gathered, and ceremony unfolded. Two powerful men stood ready to fight under the gaze of their king. Then at the last moment, Richard intervened. Instead of allowing the duel to proceed, he banished both men from the realm. Mowbray was exiled for life. Bolingbroke was given a term of ten years, later reduced to six. It was a decisive act. On the surface, it prevented bloodshed. It reinforced royal authority. The king had stepped in as arbiter rather than spectator. But in removing both men, Richard also removed potential rivals and the last of the appellants from the immediate political stage. Mowbray departed England and would never return, dying abroad the following year. His story would end far from the political heart of the kingdom. Bolingbroke’s exile, however, had barely begun when, in February 1399, little more than four months after the halted duel, his father, John of Gaunt died. And the decision that followed would prove far more consequential than exile. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-12-power-in-the-shadow-of-loss monthly 0.5 2026-02-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fa13cf5b-3ee4-4baa-9452-7f7c43dfef5b/edward-iii-tomb-effigy-westminster-abbey-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 12) - Power in the Shadow of Loss - The death of the Black Prince did not bring England to its knees. There was no dramatic collapse, no sudden unravelling of the realm. Councils still met, armies still stood, and the machinery of government continued to turn. And yet, something essential had been lost. England had lost its champion. Its certainty. Its sense of forward momentum. What followed was not chaos, but unease. A kingdom governed by necessity rather than inspiration. Authority exercised without affection. Stability maintained, but only just. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/3c7ec31f-f434-4307-95ee-e74e79892af6/westminster-hall-hammerbeam-roof-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 12) - Power in the Shadow of Loss - The Crown Passes When Edward III took his last breath on the 21st of June 1377, England lost more than a king. It lost the reassurance that came from a long, familiar reign, and the steady guidance of a ruler who, for most of his life, had given the crown a clear sense of direction. There was mourning, of course, and reverence for a monarch who had ruled for half a century. But there was little time for prolonged reflection. The succession was immediate and unavoidable. The heir to the throne was Richard of Bordeaux, the ten year old son of the Black Prince, a child who had been raised in the shadow of greatness and loss in equal measure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/3728ecd7-d218-42d4-86c4-6598d40fb9d7/john-of-gaunt-portrait-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 12) - Power in the Shadow of Loss - A Narrowing Sphere of Influence By the time Edward III’s reign drew to a close, the circle around the crown had already grown dangerously thin. His eldest son, Edward of Woodstock, the Black Prince, had died the previous year, taking with him not only England’s greatest military commander but also the clear line of succession everyone had long expected. His second son, Lionel of Antwerp, Duke of Clarence, had been gone even longer, dying suddenly in 1368 while in Italy. This death removed another experienced adult son and with it any possibility that authority might pass naturally to someone already seasoned in governance. That left John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, the king’s third surviving son, as the most powerful figure remaining. Through his marriage to Blanche of Lancaster, Gaunt was enormously wealthy, politically experienced, and deeply embedded in the machinery of government. He had spent years at his father’s side and was already accustomed to responsibility at the highest level. Behind him stood Edmund of Langley, Duke of York, quieter and far less dominant, and the youngest brother, Thomas of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester, still comparatively young and not yet the force he would later become. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/the-day-history-brought-me-to-tears monthly 0.5 2025-10-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/14bdd086-1107-4c14-aa7e-97f55706e54b/IMG_1801E.jpg Blog - The Day History Brought Me to Tears - Have you ever had a moment when you truly felt connected to history? I don’t mean when standing before a monument or exploring a centuries-old site, but in an ordinary moment that somehow reached across time and felt different, as if history itself brushed quietly against your present. The extraordinary happened to me on a perfectly ordinary afternoon. I had finished work for the day and was driving up the highway to visit my daughter and her twin babies. It was a trip I had done many times before, one of those familiar stretches of road where your mind wanders a little even as your eyes stay fixed on the traffic ahead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e41dd478-89fa-4d15-9b27-301952ab8527/IMG_8229.JPG Blog - The Day History Brought Me to Tears - Even now, I cannot fully explain what happened that day. I am not someone who leans toward ideas of reincarnation or past lives, and yet the intensity of my reaction still takes my breath away when I think about it. It was so unexpected, so powerful, and so far beyond logic that it has stayed with me ever since. Was it an extraordinary coincidence, or something more, some invisible thread that reached across 817 years? I honestly do not know. What I do know is that it was real, and it felt deeply personal. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-11-edward-black-prince-triumph-tragedy monthly 0.5 2026-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7b045a74-d700-4522-8d2f-568910c894b8/IMG_4349.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 11) - The Black Prince: Triumph & Tragedy - In northern France, on an August day in 1346, the air grew heavy with dust, blood and the brutal sounds of war. At only sixteen years old, Edward of Woodstock, heir to the English throne, stood at Crécy on the cusp of manhood. The boy who would later be known as the Black Prince commanded not with hesitation but with striking confidence. By the time the battle cries began to fade, he had carved his name into history, proving that youth was no barrier to greatness on the field of war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d3ed8004-9f70-44a3-8cee-6fbbc22055bb/Edward+the+Black+Prince+at+Crecy.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 11) - The Black Prince: Triumph & Tragedy - Military Brilliance The young prince’s first true test came at the Battle of Crécy in August 1346. Commanding one wing of the English army, he fought with discipline and resolve as waves of French cavalry charged the English lines. His longbowmen cut swathes through the enemy, and the sixteen-year-old heir held firm in the chaos. When urged to send reinforcements, Edward III famously refused, declaring that his son must be allowed to win his spurs. By the end of the day, the boy had done far more than that — he had announced himself to Europe as a warrior of rare promise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/be17f7ae-0444-4606-aff3-5b7e54b756ca/IMG_4192E.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 11) - The Black Prince: Triumph & Tragedy - His reputation, however, was not built on set-piece battles alone. In 1355–56 he led a chevauchée through southern France, a brutal campaign of fire and steel that cut deep into enemy territory. Towns were torched, supplies seized, and fear spread across the countryside. At Carcassonne he took and plundered the lower city, yet even he could not breach the mighty citadel of the Château Comtal. To the English it was shrewd strategy, a way to weaken the French crown without direct confrontation. To the French it was devastation, evidence of a ruthless streak that may have inspired the dark nickname he would later carry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9c2cde32-fbe9-4c46-85e6-190a1dedaa00/Battle_najera_froissart+%281%29.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 11) - The Black Prince: Triumph & Tragedy - Battle of Nájera After his marriage, Edward turned his attention to Spain, not from personal ambition but at the request of his father, Edward III. The king wished to support Pedro of Castile, (nicknamed Peter the Cruel), as an ally against France. While Edward unwillingly obeyed, mainly because of the promised backing of the campaign by the Spanish king, his preference was to focus on his duchy of Aquitaine, and the alliance was uneasy. In 1367, he achieved a dazzling victory at the Battle of Nájera, restoring Pedro to power. Yet the triumph came at a bitter cost. The promised payment was never made, leaving Edward to shoulder the crippling expense himself. His army endured disease, hunger, and brutal conditions, and the debts he carried away from Spain became a heavy burden on his later years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/17523aab-3e39-4062-a7e3-341c189e44a5/Canterbury+Cathedral+Blog+Black+Prince.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 11) - The Black Prince: Triumph & Tragedy - Legacy and Reflection Edward of Woodstock’s life ended before he could claim the crown, yet his shadow loomed long over England and France alike. To his contemporaries, he was the ideal of a chivalric prince: brave in battle, courteous in victory, and unwavering in loyalty to his father. To others, he was a figure of ruthless ambition whose campaigns left scars across the French countryside. This dual image, hero to some, destroyer to others, is part of what keeps him alive in memory. His victories at Crécy and Poitiers became touchstones of English pride, while his chevauchées remain controversial for the destruction they wrought. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/king-and-conqueror-sparks-an-old-argument monthly 0.5 2025-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/012ac4c9-546e-4584-9f27-d40fa179e719/IMG_2165.JPG Blog - King & Conqueror Sparks an Old Argument - Those of us in the history fan community had been waiting with keen anticipation for the release of BBC’s King & Conqueror. A big-budget series on the Battle of Hastings? Of course we were curious. But now that it’s aired in the UK, the chatter online hasn’t been what many had hoped. Instead of applause, there’s been a storm of criticism over its historical accuracy. And here’s where I need to confess something: I am one of those people who yells at the TV when history gets twisted. You should have heard me during Vikings! And don’t get me started on Richard the Lionheart’s death in Robin Hood… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e41dd478-89fa-4d15-9b27-301952ab8527/IMG_8229.JPG Blog - King & Conqueror Sparks an Old Argument - And look, I do understand that not everything from the past is as well documented as we’d like. Sometimes there are gaps that storytellers need to fill in. However, what really frustrates me is when the real story, with all its depth in location, relationships, and conflict is already fascinating enough, yet gets twisted beyond recognition. I also understand the need for drama. But surely that can be accomplished within the realm of reality. Take Robin Hood, for example. Richard the Lionheart’s death was dramatic enough: a brilliant warrior, a castle siege, a well-timed crossbow bolt, and a slow decline. If a director wanted to add more spectacle to that scene, ok fair enough, turn it into a dramatic battle to heighten the tension. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/42240cd4-5283-4f8f-b62f-73d0bd88e85a/IMG_2164.JPG Blog - King & Conqueror Sparks an Old Argument - But for heavens sake, at least have him struck in the right place by that fatal bolt, and don’t move key historical figures onto the stage for no reason at all, when they simply weren’t there. William Marshal, for instance, was not present at the siege of Châlus. Gosh, even the women who stitched the Bayeux Tapestry understood the power of drama. Look at the chaos of this scene — horses tumbling, bodies strewn, the confusion of battle captured in thread. No need to alter the story, no special effects required, just letting the tale tell itself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/281e8ea5-11dc-4f94-8552-3deb98d1d693/BattleAbbey_%C2%A9EnglishHeritage.jpg Blog - King & Conqueror Sparks an Old Argument - King & Conqueror Joins the Debate The latest BBC series King & Conqueror hasn’t even reached Australian screens yet, so I haven’t been able to watch it myself. But already, the feedback from viewers in the UK is flooding the internet and social pages, and let’s just say it isn’t exactly glowing when it comes to historical accuracy. From what I’ve seen in online history groups, the criticisms echo that same old argument: why do filmmakers feel the need to twist what is already one of the most compelling stories in English history? The Battle of Hastings, with all its ambition, betrayal, and brutal final clash, hardly needs embellishment. And yet, just as with Braveheart, Vikings, or Robin Hood, liberties have been taken that leave many of us scratching our heads (or, in my case, screaming at the TV). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d491f10f-2f21-4bd5-8d5e-6e5030104eaa/IMG_3587EE.jpg Blog - King & Conqueror Sparks an Old Argument - So I’d love to hear your thoughts. Which films or series made you throw up your hands in frustration? And on the flip side, which ones do you think got it right — or at least close enough to keep you happy? For me, these debates are more than just rants at the TV. They remind me why I love exploring history at its source — in the castles, cathedrals, and landscapes where it really happened. When you’re standing there, looking out or exploring the breath-taking ruins of a fortress like Chateau Gaillard (left), no director needs to add drama. The story speaks for itself. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/echoes-of-the-middle-ages-where-past-meets-present monthly 0.5 2025-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/a15650c1-3605-4e53-a0bc-1c268d2c800a/MAX_4621.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - There’s something about the clang of steel on steel, the scent of woodsmoke, and the flutter of banners against a winter sky that always stirs something in me. Every July, the Abbey Medieval Festival transforms a quiet corner of Southeast Queensland into a place where centuries collide, where knights ride, artisans craft, and crowds gather to glimpse the echoes of the past. Over the years, I’ve been quite a few times, not just for the living drama, but for the way it makes me feel - grounded, curious, and quietly connected to something far older than myself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/2f3abd9d-259b-40e6-86bf-a31a669557dd/MAX_1618.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - A Living Tapestry of History The Abbey Medieval Festival isn’t just a weekend event, it’s a stepping stone. As you pass through the gates, the modern world melts away and in its place rises a buzzing medieval village, bursting with sound, movement, and stories. Everywhere you turn, there’s something happening: armoured knights practicing for a tournee, drummers setting a warlike rhythm in the distance, and hawkers calling out wares in the marketplace. It’s loud, it’s joyful, it’s chaotic but it’s also absolutely fascinating. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d752a1ca-630e-4c95-9366-c26a9efe2bf2/MAX_1952.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - The jousting remains one of the festival’s most iconic draws. Crowds line the lists, craning to see the armoured riders thunder past in a blur of colour and impact. Children gasp, adults cheer, and even those who’ve seen it before still get swept up in the raw spectacle. And the weapon displays are in a league of their own. You’ll find yourself unexpectedly riveted as experts demonstrate everything from fencing to longbows and poleaxes. They don’t just show you how the weapons worked, they explain why it mattered. Why the weight and balance of a sword, the discipline of a shield wall, and the split-second timing of a counterstrike, were all a matter of life and death. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f29a91a7-d6d1-4b6f-8000-baae3b266b24/IMG_1954.jpg Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - And then there’s the trebuchet — an awe-inspiring centrepiece that never fails to draw a crowd. Operated by the Cottereaux re-enactment group, whose camp also features impressive siege weaponry like a battering ram, it’s a striking display of medieval engineering. No matter how many times this mighty machine is launched, it remains one of the festival’s most anticipated spectacles. The crowd surges forward every time, camera phones aloft, as if hoping to capture the precise moment the great wooden machine flings its projectile into the air. It’s a bit comical really as the object itself often disappears in the sky long before anyone spots it, however the excitement is always there. It’s not just about seeing it fly. It’s about feeling the whoosh, the power of a siege weapon brought back to life before your very eyes. One year, they actually closed the festival with the burning of a Viking ship on the lake, a fiery farewell that felt like something pulled straight from legend. The flames reflected in the water, the silhouettes of longboats and re-enactors watching solemnly from shore… it was hauntingly beautiful. A ritual performed not just for the spectacle, but for the stories it invoked. For anyone who’s ever wondered what it might feel like to live in another century, this is the place where constant wonder walks beside you. You don’t just watch history here. You breathe it in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ff3a94ae-7788-49e5-911d-5aed7d58d2ee/MAX_5160.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - Now let’s take a moment to think about the fact that there’s something deeply meaningful about historical re-enactment. It’s not just dressing up, it’s disciplined, researched, often extremely expensive, and undertaken with a love of detail and authenticity that goes far beyond aesthetics. These people aren’t just performers. They’re living historians. They sweat in woollen hose in the heat of the Queensland sun, learn how to fight with real weighty weapons, and painstakingly stitch their own banners and garments to echo the past as faithfully as possible. Their passion matters! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0bc57066-74fc-47f6-8663-82ed0c351348/20180714_114153.jpg Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - A Living Connection to the Past If you’ve ever wandered through any of the historical encampments at the Abbey Festival, you’ll know it feels different. It’s not just a display, it’s a community that is alive. It’s the smell of woodsmoke, the hand-stitched tents, the clatter of pots, and the gentle rhythm of craft and conversation. More importantly, it’s the quiet purpose of people keeping the camp alive: a man working the bellows, women churning butter, hands busy with tasks that don’t just echo the past, but are vital to living it. This isn’t make-believe. It’s dedication. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fc727e71-dbc2-4846-89b7-80dd293e6aea/MAX_2395.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - Historical re-enactors are often the unsung heroes of public history, not professional historians, perhaps, but keepers of authenticity nonetheless. Their commitment runs deep: in the fabric of their clothing, the historical accuracy of their tools, and the long hours spent teaching others not just what the past looked like, but what it felt like. This year, I had the joy of speaking with one re-enacting family that is three generations strong, about why they do what they do. Their answers were thoughtful, personal, and full of the kind of insight that only comes from living history, not just learning it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9a887a1b-ae91-40e9-add2-8bca0bc36716/MAX_1534.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - Inside the Encampment: A Generational Pastime As mentioned earlier, the Grand Parade is a colourful procession of not only many groups, but also all generations. Elders walk proudly in their well-worn garb, children scamper barefoot in tunics, and parents carry infants wrapped in cloth or, in this particular image, an unforgettable moment from a previous year, a youngster sitting proudly atop a wooden shield - well and truly a little Viking in the making. Throughout the camps you will see all ages working and playing together, but most of all participating in an incredible story, one that has leapt straight from the pages of time. It’s more than pageantry. It’s a dance between past and present. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/023f9de7-681c-4173-90aa-cf4f35e00315/IMG_2715.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - Why do you think it matters to keep real history alive when so much of what people love today is based on fantasy versions of the past? When asked this question, the grandmother said “The costumes and fantasy outfits I saw this weekend were a real eye opener and I wonder if this is people wanting to shock, or are they searching for their own identity. I would have loved to talk to some of them about their outfits. Maybe one day these costumes themselves will be history. However, despite this, real history will always be there. People may try to erase it or rewrite it, but there will always be diehard historians who will seek to find the truth, the real stories behind the fluff.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/74096604-d088-487a-a14b-723d7632d109/DSCN6971.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - What do children gain from this that they might not get elsewhere? For this question, the boys in the family didn’t hesitate: “We get to make things with our hands. We learn about fire, about bread, about selling our own wares. The youngest one excitedly claimed “And this year I got to use the bellows which are really old and not around today.” Not missing out on his part in the conversation, the oldest boy said “I like showing and telling people about my Lucet knitting. I do wonder what materials they used back then. Most people don't know about Lucet knitting and I can tell them the Vikings did it!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/eb60d1cb-89d5-4cc8-8678-79dd02f97f94/MAX_1904.jpg Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - Has being part of a re-enactment group changed the way you actually view history? “For me,” said the mother, “it hasn’t changed how I see history at all because I’ve studied it for years. But it has made me more determined to keep it alive. To pass it on.” The oldest boy jumped in “No, I do ancient history at school and we have a lot of history books at home and I have read a lot of books both fact and fantasy. I have also seen lots of documents about history.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/4e94b906-9b6a-4aa3-b9be-da993e750bda/20180715_121332.jpg Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - There’s been a lot of blending between fantasy and history at festivals like this — did that help or hinder your experience? “Attracting new, broader audiences to the festival is great,” she noted. “Some of the fantasy costumes were amazing. However, I wouldn't like to see fantasy eclipse the opportunity to be part of an authentic historical reenactment experience. And fact is usually stranger (and much more interesting) than fiction.” If you could go back in time for just one moment from what you saw — what would it be, and why? Her eyes lit up at the question. “The camp, caravans, costumes and dancing at Shuvani camp makes me want to go back to join a nomadic group. I think I'd like more than a moment to experience the adventure though.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0ceaa2ff-1276-4aed-9dbc-9675f0b539a0/MAX_1918.JPG Blog - Echoes of the Middle Ages: Where Past Meets Present - Echoes that Linger As I drove home this year, dust still clinging to my boots and the scent of campfire smoke still wafting through my clothes, I couldn’t help but replay the images in my mind. The clang of steel on steel. The laughter of children in makeshift tunics. The hush of a crowd as a trebuchet soared skyward. But more than anything, I kept thinking about the quiet power of those who choose to keep history alive, not through fantasy or performance, but through devotion, detail, and heart. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-10-edwardiii-a-boy-crowned-in-chaos monthly 0.5 2025-09-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d36e6442-95b8-4ed4-a860-3ecc94ff93e7/Banners+of+the+Order+of+the+Garter...+St+Georges+Chapel%2C+Windsor.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 10) - Edward III: A Boy Crowned in Chaos - Edward III’s early reign was forged in fire — rebellion, betrayal, and the burden of legacy. He had grown up in a court bruised by betrayal, where the marriage of his parents had unravelled and loyalties lay in ruins. His father had been deposed and died, , all in the midst of scandal and subterfuge. His mother now ruled alongside her lover, Roger Mortimer, a man some whispered was king in all but name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0c5f4579-6a56-4cef-9634-b71c4a62dc95/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%289%29+Minature-of-Queen-Isabella-and-her-army-from-royal-ms-15-e-iv-vol-2-f316v.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 10) - Edward III: A Boy Crowned in Chaos - The Silent Witness Prince Edward was barely fourteen when he sailed to France, sent to do a king’s duty: which was to pay homage for Gascony and Ponthieu. It should have been a political formality. Instead, he became the symbolic figurehead of a rebellion that would bring down his father. But it wasn’t his rebellion. It wasn’t his plan. He was a boy caught between power and powerlessness, paraded, positioned, and ultimately placed at the centre of a cause he had never chosen. We can’t even begin to understand what might have been going through his head? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e00a42a4-cdf2-4726-8eb2-5f8730bbf6a2/Nottingham+Castle+Image.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 10) - Edward III: A Boy Crowned in Chaos - The Turning Point It was October, 1330. Edward III was seventeen years old, and he’d waited long enough. For three years, Roger Mortimer had ruled England in all but name. He signed laws, brokered alliances, built himself a massive fortune, and made enemies — many enemies. And still, he clung to power, arrogant and unchallenged, even as Edward came of age. But something had shifted. The execution of Edward’s uncle had rattled the court and stained the crown with fear. The reasons didn’t matter, Mortimer’s latest act of cruelty had simply cut too deep. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338588149-EAQOM9EZBI2J7FOIHY3Y/Chateau+Gaillard+EFIXED.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 10) - Edward III: A Boy Crowned in Chaos - In 1333, the Battle of Halidon Hill brought a crushing defeat for the Scots. With their young king David II just nine years old, and the English holding much of southern Scotland, exile became the only option. David and his child-bride, who was none other than Joan of the Tower, daughter of Edward II, fled to France. There, they were granted sanctuary by Philip VI and given residence at Château Gaillard. And so, in a twist of fate, a Scottish king and an English princess, the children of old enemies, now found shelter within the crumbling walls of a fortress built as a defiant symbol of English strength on French soil, bynone other than the great warrior king Richard the Lionheart, over one hundred years earlier,. It was, in many ways, history echoing through history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1bb2cd03-9833-40ee-9a23-a5ea63f493d1/BattleofSluys.jpeg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 10) - Edward III: A Boy Crowned in Chaos - The following years saw a flurry of military manoeuvres, shifting alliances, and diplomatic feints. In 1340, after the English victory at the naval Battle of Sluys, Edward took the final step and publicly declared himself the rightful King of France. And to make that claim impossible to ignore, he did something bold: he quartered the French fleur-de-lis with the English lions on his coat of arms. Like Phillip's deliberate act confiscating Aquitaine a few years before, this would have also been seen as provocative, a powerful, symbolic act that asserted his claim not just in words but in every banner that flew above his armies. And so the stage was set. The war that would come would span generations. It would begin with Edward, but ripple outward through his sons and grandsons, through victories, betrayals, and battles that would completely reshape medieval Europe. A war not of a hundred years in intent, but one that would last just that long. And it all began with a crown, and a question of who had the right to wear it. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/two-voices-one-passion-talking-medieval-women monthly 0.5 2025-10-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1a8e49d0-13fa-4337-b407-c9576b5c0ea4/Sharon+headshot.jpeg Blog - Two Voices, One Passion: Talking Medieval Women with Sharon Bennett Connolly - When I first dreamed of creating a tour that centred on the remarkable women of the Plantagenet era, one author’s name kept coming up again and again, not just in my research, but in my heart - and that is Sharon Bennett Connolly. Sharon is the best-selling author of 8 non-fiction history books, a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, she has studied history academically as well as just for fun – and has even worked as a tour guide at a castle. Author of the popular history blog, www.historytheinterestingbits.com, her other accomplishments include co-hosting the podcast A Slice of Medieval with fellow historical novelist Derek Birks, as well as regularly giving talks on womens history for historical groups, festivals and in schools. Her book Silk and the Sword: The Women of the Norman Conquest is a recommended text for teaching the Norman Conquest in the National Curriculum. She is also a feature writer for All About History, Tudor Places and Living Medieval magazines and her TV work includes Australian Television's 'Who Do You Think You Are? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/734d038f-1e4c-4dc9-975b-2cd38d288a3f/Sharon%27s+Books.jpg Blog - Two Voices, One Passion: Talking Medieval Women with Sharon Bennett Connolly - 3. As a historian, how do you balance your passion for the past, with the excitement of sharing those stories with people who are discovering it for the first time? Max: As lovers of the past, we’re all used to that eye-roll when we start talking history! With such an extensive knowledge, it must be a challenge not to slip into “academic mode” when speaking with those listeners less familiar with the subject. I would love to know how you keep your storytelling engaging for everyone? https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/guedelon-the-castle-that-time-is-still-building monthly 0.5 2025-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7ffbebb1-0fe7-43a6-b9a0-f0662d418030/Guedelon+Castle+IMG_8376E.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - What if you didn’t just visit the past… but walked right into it, as it was being built? Tucked away in a quiet corner of rural France, Guédelon Castle is a living medieval construction site. Not a replica, but a real 13th-century castle, rising stone by stone through the hands of modern artisans using ancient techniques. In this blog, let’s take a journey through the sounds, smells, and stories of that incredible place, not just as observers, but as if we’ve stepped into the pages of a historical novel. The characters we meet are craftsmen and women, the setting is alive, and we’re not reading the story… we’re inside it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c7af5843-b880-4f83-8234-9f789f3cb0d8/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+IMG_8360.JPG Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - The Castle That Breathes We move through the space slowly, senses sharpened, completely uncertain where to look next. A hammer strikes stone with a steady rhythm of ‘clack, clack, pause, clack’ nearby, even as smoke curls from a fire at the edge of the trees. We pass a carpenter bent over a beam, eyes narrowed, blade flashing in the sun. It looks like he is carving something into the timber, maybe his initials. He doesn’t look up, but we hear him speak to someone just out of sight. “Every piece of wood should know who worked it,” he mutters. “My father taught me that. Not for pride. Just so it remembers.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/6dde1f61-d842-4798-b414-79211dc66216/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+20240913_111847.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - Further along, the air shifts. The deep metallic song of the forge rings out, followed by the heavy breath of bellows. A blacksmith wipes sweat from his brow and leans in to inspect the glow of iron in the coals. “The fire decides the pace,” he says to no one in particular. “I just follow.” Beyond him, two geese waddle noisily across the path and disappear behind a wooden cart. We notice a woman kneeling at the edge of a garden plot, checking bean pods with a practised hand. She looks up for a moment, smiles, and gestures toward the castle walls. “They say it’s a fortress,” she says, “but I think of it more like a body. The walls are bones. But we, out here, we keep the blood moving.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1ae955f9-e6ca-46ff-b0ed-55c4e5ab5f94/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+IMG_5886R.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - We keep walking, caught between now and then. Around each corner reveals new layers: a weaver brushing dust from her skirt, apprentices hauling buckets of lime, potters shaping clay with quiet concentration. The air hums with purpose — every movement, part of a bigger picture, and every trade, connected in rhythm, like notes in a song long forgotten. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/409b497e-2d7d-4018-ad52-b852be5537f0/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+20240913_103221.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - And then we come across the masons, a dedicated group working together in perfect harmony to shift an enormous block of stone. With muscles straining, their movements wordless and precise, it’s like watching a well-oiled machine. There's something almost sacred about the way they work, hands rough with dust, eyes focused not just on the task, but on each other. This isn’t just labour, it’s legacy. “I won’t finish this castle,” one of them says, not with bitterness, but with quiet pride. “But I know my work will carry forward in someone else’s hands.” And somehow, somewhere, that thought is enough. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/78c00400-4f63-4ddc-b0ea-ddffc4459308/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+20240913_111314.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - More Than a Castle As we continue wandering, it becomes more and more clear that this isn’t just a building site. It’s something more. A village. A community. A life. There are gardens tucked between the trees, neat rows of beans and cabbages tended with quiet pride. A thatched shelter holds firewood stacked with mathematical precision. There’s a bread oven, chickens pecking at the earth, sheep and horses grazing in their pens, and the smell of herbs drying in the sun. This place isn't being staged, it's actually being lived. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b4549931-0f5b-4607-9fc2-d11a2b977287/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+IMG_8318E.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - Very soon we come to the realisation that the people here aren’t actors. They’re tradespeople, historians, and craftspeople who have spent years reviving ancient knowledge that is for the main part forgotten. Carpenters, blacksmiths, stonecutters, dyers, tilers, plasterers, cartwrights. Skills once on the brink of extinction, now practised daily by hands that honour their lineage. In a world that values speed and efficiency, Guédelon dares to be different, dares to move slowly. There are no shortcuts. No machinery. Everything is done as it would have been in the 13th century, not as a performance, but as a question: how did they do this? What can we learn by doing it, too? And as we take in the rhythm of the slow, deliberate and grounded work, we can’t help but feel it’s not just a medieval castle they’re building. It’s a bridge back to something lost, but at the same time forward to something we very well might still recover. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/cc45c7a0-9089-4817-9806-688be5d65d6c/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+IMG_5811R.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - The Dream That Became Stone Guédelon began with a question. Not just how medieval castles were built, but could we do it again? Not with modern tools or machines. But with hands, hearts, and the knowledge that has mostly slipped through time’s fingers. In 1997, a small team of historians, archaeologists, and artisans stood in this very forest and began. The site was chosen with much care, nestled within an old sandstone quarry, surrounded by forest, and with a nearby creek to draw water. Just as it would have been in the 13th century, everything needed was already here: the stone, the wood, and the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/2a7b913f-699e-44f6-b9c3-84301bcd1202/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+IMG_8329.JPG Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - However, the rest had to be rediscovered, every technique had to be re-learned, not just how to carve a lintel or fire roof tiles on the outside of the castle, but also the intricate work of authentically recreating the interior. This amazing group of people had to actually learn how to think like a medieval builder. Mistakes were made certainly, and adjustments followed, the greatest result however, was that they learned, not from textbooks, but from trial, error and time. And twenty-five years later, they are still building. Not out of delay, but out of devotion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e1d730ed-4a74-4820-b345-c9313c5ab6f6/Notre+Dame+Fire+Image.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - And then, in 2019, something remarkable happened. Following the fire that devastated Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, when it came to the massive task of rebuilding, engineers and architects found themselves turning to Guédelon. The knowledge preserved here, once considered a curiosity, had now become a lifeline. Lessons in ancient stonework, timber framing, and construction methods were suddenly vital. Guédelon wasn’t just preserving the past. It was helping to rebuild it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/63aad709-1aa5-4c09-b5cc-0a4a386fc5d3/Guedelon+Castle+Blog+IMG_5874R.jpg Blog - Guédelon -The Castle that Time is Still Building - Where the Past Meets the Present As we turn and walk away slowly, there’s no rush, and no one is pushing us along. However, the forest welcomes us back quietly, as if it knows we've just stepped out of another time, and perhaps, another way of being. What stays with us isn’t just the castle walls or the craftsmanship. It’s the feeling, the sense that something here really matters. That each stone, each swing of a hammer, and each handful of earth is part of something larger. Something timeless. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-9-edwardii-a-crown-too-heavy monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f7eb1aa3-4265-4f04-bf02-be4f867f10a4/Berkeley+Castle+IMG_E3198.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 9) - Edward II: A Crown Too Heavy - In this next instalment in our journey through the Plantagenet Dynasty, let us ponder historical figures in general — some invite admiration, others spark debate. And then there are those who leave us with more questions than answers. These are the figures whose lives feel like puzzles we’re still trying to solve centuries later. Edward II is one of those kings! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/967264dd-c3ae-4340-bdb3-c81d3a691e5c/Edward+II+%26+Gaveston+%281%29.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 9) - Edward II: A Crown Too Heavy - Love in All the Wrong Places Edward’s reign was shaped as much by the people he loved, or thought he could trust, as it was by any political acts. The chronicles speak often of his “favourites,” and history has long speculated about the nature of those relationships. The most famous of course is Piers Gaveston, charming, bold, and utterly unbothered by the disapproval he stirred. Their closeness was undeniable, and it rattled the court from the very beginning. But what if we look at it not just through the lens of scandal, but through the quiet, human desire for connection? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e621ec81-973c-461f-bdf7-b0d1c2272c21/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%289%29+Battle_of_Bannockburn_-_Bruce_addresses_troops.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 9) - Edward II: A Crown Too Heavy - The Weight of the Crown If Edward struggled to find affection in his personal life, he fared no better when it came to the political responsibilities of kingship. His reign was marked not by decisive leadership, but by hesitation, misjudgment, and a refusal to listen to the voices he most needed to hear. Military command, in particular, revealed his weaknesses. At the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, Edward led a sizeable English force against the Scots, and suffered one of the most humiliating defeats in English history. Poor planning, overconfidence, and a failure to adapt cost him the battle, and with it, his reputation. Scotland slipped from his grasp, and with it, any sense that Edward could live up to the military legacy of his father. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1897aa86-bf08-46b6-b3a0-daf84fe65c1d/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%289%29+Tynemouth_%C2%A9EnglishHeritage+1.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 9) - Edward II: A Crown Too Heavy - And as the years passed, things only worsened. With the rise of Hugh Despenser, any remaining sense of her dignity, position, or influence was stripped away. She was not just sidelined as a consort; but completely humiliated, her lands seized, and her royal authority undermined. And then there was the moment Edward left her alone in the north of England, tasked with negotiating during a rebellion, and forced to take refuge at Tynemouth Priory, while he fled south. It may have been a political decision, and then it may have become something else: a turning point for Isabella. In 1325, when she crossed to France, sent as a mediator, she chose not to return. However, it was the arrival of her son on the continent months after her, that changed everything. Sent by Edward to pay homage to the French king for Gascony, as he himself was afraid to leave England because of the political unrest with his barons, the young Prince Edward became not just a diplomatic envoy, but a powerful playing piece upon the board. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/592042ee-a5e3-40ec-b574-fc26743d1359/DSC_6562.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 9) - Edward II: A Crown Too Heavy - Also whilst in France, she found an unexpected ally and most probably a lover, in the form of the exiled nobleman Roger Mortimer, who had previously escaped from the Tower of London. Some say she was manipulated, others that she took control. But perhaps it was something more human than either: perhaps, like Edward, she too was seeking comfort. She too may have been drawn to someone who offered what her husband never could, and that was attention, validation, and partnership. It’s easy to see Isabella’s affair with Mortimer as cold calculation. But maybe it was born, at least in part, from the same longing that had once drawn Edward to his favourites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0c5f4579-6a56-4cef-9634-b71c4a62dc95/Minature-of-Queen-Isabella-and-her-army-from-royal-ms-15-e-iv-vol-2-f316v.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 9) - Edward II: A Crown Too Heavy - Of course, unlike Edward, Isabella acted. She and Mortimer raised an army with the young Prince Edward as it’s figurehead, crossed the Channel in September 1326, and swept through England almost without resistance. Edward was abandoned by most of his supporters and allies, and finally, captured and forced to abdicate the throne in favour of his son, the new Edward III. And at the centre of it all stood Isabella, not just as a scorned queen, but as a woman who had waited long enough. History gave her teeth. But perhaps, before she ever bared them, she had been bleeding quietly for years. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/plantagenet-heroines monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/500e25d9-521f-49d9-a5d1-3868e486db73/Kenilworth+Castle+13.jpg Blog - Plantagenet Heroines: Walk in the Footsteps of Medieval Women Who Changed History - When I first began this adventure, I always knew that my first specialised tour would be dedicated to the remarkable women of the Plantagenet era. While the Plantagenets in France and England tours were an essential first step, I always envisioned offering a tour that celebrated the many overlooked heroines who shaped history. Now, I’m thrilled to finally invite you to step into their extraordinary lives on our Plantagenet Heroines Tour - a journey that brings their stories to the forefront in a way you’ll never forget. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9011ca97-dcf2-44c2-8ca7-005abbf3c9df/IMG_E4199.JPG Blog - Plantagenet Heroines: Walk in the Footsteps of Medieval Women Who Changed History - On this adventure, you’ll explore some of the most iconic and historically rich locations of the Plantagenet era. Spend three nights in the walled city of York, where the medieval streets and centuries-old buildings will transport you back in time. Walk the same paths as historical figures and feel the weight of the past in this vibrant city. Discover the delights of the medieval city of Lincoln, the castle where Nicholaa de la Haye held her ground in defense of King John, is sure to leave a lasting impression. Or the magnificent cathedral wherein lies the tomb of Katherine Swynford, one-time mistress and then Duchess of Lancaster. One of the most exciting aspects of this time-travel experience is the opportunity to enjoy the expertise of our special guest, acclaimed historian Sharon Bennett Connolly. Sharon’s deep knowledge of the Plantagenet era as well as her passion for the women who shaped history will bring a new layer of understanding to every site we visit. As an expert on medieval history, Sharon’s insights will allow you to uncover the mystery of these remarkable women in ways that go beyond the textbooks. Her enthusiasm for these stories is infectious, and you can expect to be captivated by the historical narratives she shares along the way. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-8-the-longshanks-legacy monthly 0.5 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1742707271090-6SUMCOQ3OFZPZ5KQYMCM/Caernarfon+Castle+callum-parker-6y6_wKazBq8-unsplash.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 8) - The Longshanks Legacy - In the next instalment of our discovery of the rise of the Plantagenets, we turn our attention to one of the most formidable and divisive figures in the dynasty’s long reign: Edward I. Strong-willed, strategic, and often ruthless, Edward I left a legacy that shaped medieval Britain in both admirable and deeply troubling ways. From battlefields in Wales and Scotland to his tender devotion as a husband, this is the story of a king both feared and revered. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/6e486b6f-acb5-4198-803e-fb9547504427/Ninth_Crusade-en+%281%29.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 8) - The Longshanks Legacy - Crusader and Commander: Edward in the Holy Land With civil war behind him and royal authority secured, Edward turned his gaze outward. Like many princes of his time, he was drawn to the East—not only by the lure of religious duty, but also by the promise of prestige. In 1270, Edward joined what would become known as the Ninth Crusade, sailing to the Holy Land in the final major effort of the Crusading era. Though the crusade was small in scale and arrived late, with many of the earlier crusaders having already withdrawn, it still held symbolic weight. Edward viewed himself as a defender of Christendom, and his presence alone carried political significance. He led a number of minor campaigns around Acre and made attempts to forge alliances with the Mongols, hoping to strike a decisive blow against the Mamluks. Those efforts ultimately fell short, but his conduct left an impression. Even in distant lands, Edward was already being seen as a determined and honourable warrior. Then came the incident that almost ended it all. In June 1272, Edward was attacked in his chamber by an assassin, likely a member of the secretive sect known as the Nizari (or "Assassins"). He managed to kill his attacker, but not before suffering a deep wound from a poisoned dagger. The injury was serious, and legend tells us that his wife, Eleanor of Castile, heroically saved his life by sucking the poison from the wound—a romantic image beloved by chroniclers, but doubted by historians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/2610c251-0302-4dcd-b3b6-9d75502da12e/Edward+I.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 8) - The Longshanks Legacy - The Conquest of Wales: Iron Castles and a Kingdom Lost Of all Edward’s campaigns, his conquest of Wales was one of the most calculated, and sadly for many, one of the most heartbreaking. For centuries, the Welsh had fought to preserve their independence in the face of growing English ambition. At the centre of this final resistance stood Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, a proud and capable prince whose dream of a unified and self-governed Wales stood in direct defiance of Edward’s vision of English authority. Tensions escalated quickly after Edward’s coronation. Llywelyn’s refusal to pay homage and his engagement to Eleanor de Montfort, daughter of Edward’s former enemy, only deepened the rift. By 1277, war was inevitable. With superior forces and a shrewd grasp of psychological warfare, he pushed into Gwynedd, forcing Llywelyn into submission. But that was only the beginning. When a second rebellion broke out in 1282, the campaign turned even darker. Llywelyn was killed at the Battle of Orewin Bridge, and his severed head displayed on London Bridge—Wales was finally subdued. With the Statute of Rhuddlan in 1284, Edward formally annexed the Welsh lands into the English crown. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1fc96b12-b52a-4708-a349-549e59c2d0d9/IMG_E4284.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 8) - The Longshanks Legacy - A King’s Heart and the Shadow of Grief Between wars and political manoeuvrings, Edward’s private life revealed a surprising tenderness—particularly in his enduring love for his first wife, Eleanor of Castile. Married as part of a political alliance, theirs could have been a cold and calculated union. But it wasn’t. Against the odds, the pair formed a deep and genuine partnership, raising sixteen children together—though only a handful would survive to adulthood. Eleanor was more than just a queen consort; she was Edward’s confidante, business partner, and travelling companion. She accompanied him on crusade, a rare and remarkable feat, and was frequently at his side throughout his reign. Their closeness is reflected in the grief that overtook Edward after her death in 1290, when she fell ill while journeying through Nottinghamshire. To honour her memory, Edward commissioned what became one of the most poignant gestures of medieval mourning: the Eleanor Crosses. At every location where her body rested on the way to its final burial at Westminster Abbey, he ordered the construction of a lavish stone cross. Of the original twelve, three still stand today—at Geddington, Hardingstone, and Waltham Cross—quietly echoing a king’s sorrow across the centuries. It is perhaps the one moment in Edward’s story where sentiment softened steel. The man who would go on to conquer and crush was also capable of profound personal loss—and his tribute to Eleanor remains one of the most heartfelt legacies of his reign. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b8f63359-2b69-4e7b-858c-9a10cacbefe1/Stone+of+Destiny.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 8) - The Longshanks Legacy - Edward accepted the role, but there would be strings attached. He demanded that the Scottish nobles recognise him as overlord before he would deliver a verdict. Under pressure, they agreed, and Edward named John Balliol king in 1292. But Balliol was no more than a figurehead. Edward humiliated and undermined him at every turn, treating Scotland as a vassal state rather than a sovereign kingdom. Eventually, Balliol rebelled. In retaliation, Edward marched north with brutal efficiency. The sacking of Berwick in 1296 was a massacre, thousands of civilians were killed, and the message was clear: Scotland would be ruled by England, or else. Edward stripped the country of its royal regalia, including the Stone of Scone, which he had transported to Westminster Abbey, a symbolic act of domination that still provokes emotion to this day. Resistance grew in the form of William Wallace, whose early victories captured the imagination of the people. But Edward was relentless. He crushed Wallace’s forces at the Battle of Falkirk and later had him captured, hanged, drawn, and quartered in 1305. It was a gruesome end, but far from the end of the war. For, just as Edward was beginning to believe he had Scotland under control, a new contender emerged: Robert the Bruce. And while Edward would never live to face Bruce’s full rebellion, the fire he’d lit would burn long into the reign of his son. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/troubadours-of-france-poetry-power-plantagenets monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1739267073514-0NUFOPW7YWIBRO5OSYBL/Medieval+Troubadour.jpg Blog - Troubadours of France: Poetry, Power & Plantagenets - The troubadours of medieval France were more than poets and musicians—they were the voice of chivalry and love. Emerging in the courts of Aquitaine, their art flourished under the patronage of Eleanor of Aquitaine and her descendants. But their influence went beyond poetry, often carrying subtle political messages and critiques. From courtly love to coded messages, these highly sought-after entertainers shaped the culture of the Middle Ages. Read on to discover the world of these lyrical storytellers and their ties to the Plantagenet dynasty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7625de2c-228c-4a5d-9930-79631cbde14b/Maubergeonne+Tower+24_9_2022.jpg Blog - Troubadours of France: Poetry, Power & Plantagenets - It’s In Their Blood One of the earliest known troubadours, who helped set the stage for this poetic revolution, was William IX, Duke of Aquitaine (1071–1127). A man as famous for his poetry as for his rather colorful love life, William was a bold warrior and gifted lyricist. His verses celebrated love, chivalry, and, at times, risqué themes. His romantic entanglements were legendary—infamously casting aside his wife to take up with Dangereuse de Châtellerault, a noblewoman whose affair was as provocative as her name. This scandal rocked the courts of Aquitaine, but it also set the stage for a flourishing culture of courtly love—one that his granddaughter, Eleanor of Aquitaine, would later champion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/3451a1c0-07f5-4c9b-aee0-0ba500a138f3/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%284%29+Richard_coeur_de_lion.jpg Blog - Troubadours of France: Poetry, Power & Plantagenets - Eleanor herself was far more than just a patron of the arts—she was a force that shaped the very fabric of medieval literary culture. Raised in the vibrant courts of Aquitaine, where poetry and music flourished, Eleanor carried her love of verse and song throughout her life, championing the troubadour tradition. At Poitiers, her court became a beacon of refinement, where the ideals of courtly love were explored and immortalised in song and verse. Sources suggest that Eleanor may have been involved in the legendary Courts of Love—gatherings where noblewomen were said to preside over matters of romance and chivalry. Her daughter, Marie of Champagne, followed in her footsteps, fostering poets like Chrétien de Troyes, whose Arthurian romances shaped the very ideals of knighthood. Though troubadours themselves were men, it was often powerful women like Eleanor who provided the stage upon which their voices could rise, ensuring that the ideals of love, honor, and poetic devotion would echo across generations. Richard the Lionheart is remembered as a warrior-king, a battle-hardened crusader who embodied the ideals of chivalry. Yet, beneath the armor and the legendary military prowess lay a soul steeped in poetry and music. A true son of Eleanor of Aquitaine, he inherited not only her strategic mind but also her deep appreciation for the troubadour tradition. His most famous surviving work, Ja Nus Hons Pris, written during his imprisonment in Germany, is a haunting lament on betrayal and captivity—a strikingly vulnerable piece from a man renowned for his strength. This duality, a fierce warrior with the heart of a poet, seems almost paradoxical to modern sensibilities, yet in the medieval world, the ideals of chivalry and artistic expression were deeply entwined. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-7-child-king monthly 0.5 2025-06-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1735599928761-PEPDL7O985PKLD9BDMAQ/Henry+III.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - Welcome to the latest installment of our journey through the rise of the Plantagenets! Crowned at just nine years old, Henry III ascended the throne in the shadow of his father, King John, whose turbulent reign left England reeling. While it seemed things could hardly worsen, the challenges Henry faced were monumental. Yet, amid the threat of French invasion and baronial rebellion, this young king would leave his own mark on history through his enduring contributions to art, architecture, and culture. From the chaos of civil war to the grandeur of Westminster Abbey, join us as we delve into the highs and lows of Henry III’s remarkable reign, a story of resilience, creativity, and legacy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0fedc64a-6cef-444a-8862-885d161d40a5/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%287%29+Battle+of+Lincoln+and+Sandwich.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - The French be Gone! - An End to the Baron’s War King John’s death in 1216 eased some of the tensions fueling the First Baron’s War, but the conflict persisted in a stalemate. Prince Louis of France controlled Westminster Abbey but faced a significant obstacle: he could not be crowned king, as the English Church and its leaders firmly backed young Henry III and the loyalists. Efforts to bring rebel barons back into the royal fold through the promise of restoring their lands and reissuing Magna Carta fell flat, further solidifying opposition to Henry’s government. The tide began to turn in Henry’s favor when Louis returned to France to gather reinforcements. During his absence, many rebel barons defected back to the royalist side after Cardinal Guala declared the war against the rebels a religious crusade. This proclamation was grounded in England’s earlier recognition as a papal state under King John. Louis’s return to England marked a turning point—though not in his favor. In what proved to be a critical misstep, he divided his forces, sending half to besiege Lincoln Castle in the north while the other half remained in the south to capture Dover Castle. Seizing this opportunity, William Marshal, still a formidable strategist at the age of 70, led the royal army north to confront the rebels at Lincoln. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/613bab08-6e04-4896-a7ab-76860a6eecc4/MangonelShotBedfordMuseum.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - Restoring Royal Authority With the civil war over, Henry’s government faced the daunting challenge of restoring royal authority across a fractured kingdom. Many barons, both former rebels and loyalists, maintained independent control over castles, and the kingdom was dotted with unauthorized fortifications. The network of sheriffs, critical for tax collection and law enforcement, had disintegrated, while Llywelyn of Wales posed a significant threat along the Marches. William Marshal’s efforts to reassert royal control met limited success. While he reopened the royal exchequer and reestablished the bench of judges, his inability to reward loyalist barons hindered this task. The 1218 Treaty of Worcester, though achieving peace with Llywelyn, also recognized his authority in Wales, underscoring the Crown's weakened position. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/a5155507-2737-427c-a022-ce9bb30e0191/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%287%29+Heinrichus_tercius.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - The Art of Governance Henry III's approach to governance was both ambitious and flawed, marked by a reliance on favourites and a struggle to balance royal authority with the expectations of the barons. Despite rewarding Hubert de Burgh with immense largesse for his service during Henry’s minority, Hubert ultimately fell out of favour and was imprisoned in the Tower of London. After this, Henry left the position of Justiciar vacant, and delegated the chancellor’s duties to a junior figure, which weakened central governance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/10699303-f62d-4434-ae6d-360da369955c/Windsor+Castle.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - The Royal Court Henry III's royal court was a reflection of his love for ceremony, chivalry, and the arts, drawing inspiration from Angevin family traditions and the opulent courts of France and Europe. French was the dominant language spoken at court, and its culture permeated daily life, from the courtly rituals to the architectural styles that Henry favored. Unlike his itinerant predecessors, Henry preferred a more settled and tranquil existence, often remaining in one location for extended periods. This resulted in an increase in spending on his palaces and castles, in particular The Tower of London, Lincoln, Dover and Windsor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d5b129c0-c44b-4574-9bf3-56ac6ee92891/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%287%29+Westminster+Abbey.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - Religion Henry III's reign was deeply influenced by his piety, particularly his veneration of Edward the Confessor. This reverence bordered on obsession, with Henry modeling his kingship on the Confessor's legacy of saintly rule. His devotion found its most visible expression in the costly rebuilding of Westminster Abbey, intended as a grand shrine to his spiritual idol and a demonstration of his own faith. Henry's religious zeal permeated his rule, influencing not only his architectural ambitions but also his policies and governance. Early in Henry's reign, the Jewish community in England experienced relative protection and prosperity, thanks to the regency's pragmatic stance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/a74e5f26-7a38-47fd-ac6e-06cb8e145b85/Marriage+of+Henry+III+%26+Eleanor+of+Provence.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - Family Life Henry III was a devoted family man, setting an uncommon example of marital fidelity for a medieval monarch. Unlike many of his predecessors, Henry fathered no illegitimate children, a legacy of respect and loyalty that his sons, Edward and Edmund, carried forward in their own marriages. His relationship with Eleanor of Provence was marked by affection and partnership; she played an active role in court life and politics, cementing their bond as both spouses and allies. Henry and Eleanor had five children who survived infancy: Edward, later known as Edward I, Edmund, who became Earl of Leicester and Lancaster, Margaret, who married King Alexander III of Scotland, Beatrice, who married John II, Duke of Brittany, and Katherine, who tragically died in childhood. The family was close-knit, and Henry’s love for his children was evident in his attentiveness to their education and well-being, reflecting his deep sense of paternal devotion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fd93e0ee-0a28-4498-8397-0112427f1c33/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%287%29+Death_of_de_Montfort.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - The Second Baron’s War The Second Barons’ War (1264–1267) was one of the defining conflicts of Henry III’s reign, rooted in years of growing discontent among the barons over his financial mismanagement, foreign favoritism, and perceived failure to honor the principles of Magna Carta. The situation reached a boiling point under the leadership of Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester, who became the figurehead for reform. The seeds of rebellion were sown in 1258 with the Provisions of Oxford, a set of reforms forced upon the king by the barons. This document called for a council of 15 barons to oversee royal power, effectively limiting the king’s authority. Henry reluctantly agreed, but his later attempts to annul the provisions deepened the divide between the crown and the baronial reformers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/32e26c28-7c4e-4ad3-9643-595fd0e06294/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%287%29+tombofhenry.london.arp.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 7) - Child King,Henry III - Henry III’s Death and Legacy Henry III passed away on November 16, 1272, at Westminster, the site most closely tied to his reign and visions. He was interred in Westminster Abbey, a fitting resting place given his lifelong devotion to the Confessor and his costly transformation of the abbey into a symbol of piety and power. His death was peaceful, even though his long reign had been anything but. Despite his rule being marred by political missteps, financial struggles, and civil war, his legacy is complex. In many ways, he left England in a stronger position than he found it. His devotion to governance—however flawed—and his focus on the arts and architecture brought a cultural and ceremonial sophistication to the monarchy that would resonate for generations. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/solo-travel-for-women-embrace-the-adventure monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fccec3fc-c842-47ce-9f81-75f6aab37469/Travel+Planning+1.jpg Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Travelling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering and rewarding experiences you can undertake. It offers the chance to explore the world on your terms, dive into new cultures, and discover more about yourself along the way. Yet, as incredible as it sounds, it’s not without its challenges. From safety concerns to the logistics of planning, navigating unfamiliar cultures, and the desire for meaningful companionship, solo travel can sometimes feel daunting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/480a6e57-5236-48d7-a89f-13940b63e198/PIF2409+IMG_4953.jpg Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - First, let’s delve into some key considerations for solo travellers. Safety and Security Imagine feeling confident enough to take a peaceful evening stroll to see that landmark beautifully lit against the night sky or capturing that perfect photo when the crowds have dispersed. Maybe you'd even like to pop into a charming café up the street for a glass of wine or a quiet coffee. The sad reality is that with the world being what it is—often uncertain and turbulent—travelling solo can feel quite scary, whether you’re navigating a bustling city or venturing off the beaten path into unfamiliar places. Finding Companionship Without Compromise Do you ever find yourself feeling isolated while travelling, surrounded by groups of friends or couples while you’re on your own? Even as someone naturally friendly, I sometimes hesitate to approach others I don’t know well—and if you’re more introverted, striking up conversations with strangers can feel even harder. Do you imagine being part of a group with fellow solo travellers who happily engage and include you, while also respecting your space if you’d like some time to explore on your own? Avoiding Overwhelming Planning Stress Planning a holiday should be exciting, but in this technological age, with endless options available online, it often feels anything but. Do you feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices—and maybe even a bit wary? With so many people offering advice and services, and not all of them genuine, planning can quickly become a nightmare, especially if you’re doing it alone without a friend or partner to bounce ideas off and help share the load. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b9fdf9b5-1bcd-4943-8a41-a7c230cd62a0/PIF2409+IMG_5127.JPG Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Well don’t worry, read on and I’ll share a few ideas that will go some way to easing your concerns, as well as inspiring and enhancing your upcoming journey. Safety and Security When selecting a tour, look for fully guided experiences where you’ll always be travelling with a group, thereby increasing your safety. Always ensure that your Tour Guide/Manager provides group members with a telephone contact number at the beginning of the tour, should you need it in the case of emergency. It is also good if the company is upfront and transparent about their accommodation details, allowing you to review them beforehand. Finding Companionship without Compromise Seek out tours that cater specifically to solo travellers, as they’re more likely to foster an inclusive atmosphere. In a more intimate setting, you’re less likely to feel lost in the crowd, fostering an environment where friendships can easily blossom. Many tour companies host Meet & Greet events, so take advantage of this opportunity to meet your fellow travellers. Some companies may offer online private tour-specific groups through WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, where you can interact with other group members before you even arrive. This early building of camaraderie and excitement for the adventure ahead can be particularly comforting for solo travellers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e12b6f63-51a8-45b6-972b-9d4973dfa2a3/PIF2409+20240907_191620E.jpg Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Seeking Deeper Connections through Travel Opt for specialised small group tours, it will be much easier to get to know your fellow travellers, particularly if there are several solo travellers in the group. Looking for your next adventure - look further than just the destination; focus also on personal interests. You will be surprised by the various themed tours available—tours relating to movies, hobbies, history, or cuisine. Some even cater to dietary preferences, like vegetarian tours! By choosing a themed tour, there is instant common ground with your fellow travellers, no need for awkward ice-breakers with strangers. You may just find your tribe! Consider the rising trend of incorporating volunteer work into your travels, this serves not only to give back to the communities you visit, but also to make your trip much more meaningful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/4f129160-ae76-4e5d-a4d8-7c0f755bb7fb/PIF2409+IMG_4087.JPG Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Julie’s Story Julie is a retired schoolteacher, and although not travelled a lot, travels solo by choice, savouring the freedom to make her own choices. She reflects on her limited experience as a solo traveller, sharing the joys and the challenges of going it alone. "When I travel solo, I value the freedom to choose where I go and what I see. Even in group settings like museums, I like to wander off on my own to focus on what truly captivates me. I guess that’s why I was drawn to the Plantagenet-themed tour—I didn’t know anyone else who would choose such a niche itinerary, so I took the plunge, and I’m very glad I did! Now, I know plenty of people who share my enthusiasm, thanks to the connections I made on the tour." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/8b620b55-f2ee-40c9-81b8-c92947326b93/PIF2409+IMG_7745.JPG Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Amy’s Story Amy, a widely travelled solo adventurer, appreciates the independence and flexibility that comes with exploring the world on her own, and we will see how her approach to travel highlights the unique benefits of going solo. "I prefer to travel solo because it gives me the freedom to do what I want, when I want. Sometimes, I just want to go back to the hotel and order room service. Travelling alone also allows me to interact more with new people and exchange ideas, something I don’t do as much when travelling with friends. I can also decide how much to spend without needing to consult with a companion. For instance, to go to a fancy restaurant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/898c7eaa-68c1-4f2c-8e33-a1bb18b7cce0/Winding+Path+for+About+Us+Page+%281%29.jpg Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Sharon’s Story Sharon’s story is one that resonates with many solo travellers who find themselves embarking on adventures without a companion. Though she’s no stranger to travelling alone, she admits to some initial concerns that many solo travellers share. "Since my husband doesn’t travel and I don’t have many lady friends who can or do travel, I’m pretty much stuck with going solo. This wasn’t my first solo trip—I did an Italy tour a few years ago and found I rather liked having the room to myself. My initial fear was the extra cost, but it wasn’t as much as I thought it might be, which was a relief. I would go solo again without hesitation." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9b9f9f0f-01db-40ed-9649-26034d63dc92/PIF2409+IMG_7602.jpg Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Solo travel doesn’t have to mean going it alone. At Plantagenet Discoveries, we’ve crafted our tours to be a haven for independent adventurers seeking connection, comfort, and a seamless experience. Here’s how we will make your journey unforgettable: Small Groups, Big Connections With no more than 18 guests, our tours foster a warm and friendly atmosphere where building relationships feels effortless. From the moment you meet your fellow travellers, camaraderie and shared curiosity set the tone. Stress-Free Adventures Say goodbye to the hassle of planning. Our tours are all-inclusive packages designed so you can simply arrive and enjoy. For extras like flights, travel insurance, and additional accommodation, we can connect you with a trusted agent who will take care of everything. Personalised Connections Before You Book Connect with me directly before booking with a personalized calendar booking system. This allows us to discuss your needs, answer any questions, and build a rapport right from the beginning—a perfect way to ease any concerns for solo travellers. A Shared Passion for History Our Plantagenet-themed tours naturally bring together like-minded history lovers. Whether it’s through lively discussions, shared interests, or even guests arriving in costume, you’ll bond over a mutual appreciation for the past. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/73eed370-c577-46bd-991a-7bedaf043190/PIF2409+IMG_4434.JPG Blog - Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure - Local Expertise at Your Fingertips Travel with a fully accredited local guide who not only shares fascinating historical and cultural insights but is also available to assist with language barriers when needed. Community Before You Travel The adventure begins well before you arrive! We encourage guests to join our private Facebook Messenger group once their final payment is made. It’s a wonderful way to connect, share excitement, and get to know each other ahead of the trip. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-6-magna-carta monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338337558-CRRMFJ5ZXAYOO830CE4F/Magna+Carta+Signing+1.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 6) - Magna Carta - Welcome to the latest installment of our journey through the rise of the Plantagenets! Following our dive previously into the reign of King John, it would be remiss to overlook one of history’s most pivotal moments. Though not directly authored by him, Magna Carta—the Great Charter—emerged as a defining legacy of John’s rule. However, instead of the usual focus on its legal clauses, let’s examine Magna Carta through a fresh lens. We’ll explore this transformative document from the perspectives of those it touched—from barons and commoners to unexpected figures working behind the scenes. Join us as we uncover how Magna Carta shaped the lives and futures of many, revealing the powerful ripples of its legacy that continue to resonate today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e10014c9-a759-4f1a-bad8-d63d78966f15/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%286%29+Magna+Carta+1.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 6) - Magna Carta - Let's start with one of John’s most loyal barons, the renowned William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke. In 1215, when Magna Carta was signed, the Marshal was in his late 60s and had a remarkable breadth of experience, having served four Plantagenet kings. Recently at odds with John, he had navigated his way back to the king’s favour, thanks to his diplomatic skill and unshakable honour—a loyalty that would later lead to him being named regent for his young son, Henry III. So, I ask you to ponder what Marshal might have thought about this groundbreaking document. Did he feel relief, not only because it heralded the curbing of John’s excesses but also for the peace of his own conscience? As a man of honour, it must have been extremely difficult for him to remain loyal to such a tyrant. Did Marshal, a man with very keen foresight, recognise Magna Carta as a promising step toward a more just England? Alternatively, did he hold some small measure of doubt, knowing John well enough to question whether he would truly honour his promises, especially given that the charter had been sealed under pressure? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338194969-8VI35H7K61IZ79H45MDY/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%286%29+Scribe.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 6) - Magna Carta - Let us first look at the humble scribes who copied Magna Carta, and there must have been a lot of them as there were many copies sent out all over the kingdom… what a laborious task but how crucial for the document’s impact. How much knowledge of the importance of this document do you think they had? Did they consider themselves part of something historic, or was it simply another mundane task? Knowing that these copies would reach influential barons and townspeople alike, did the scribes imagine the document could bring lasting change? Or was it difficult to grasp the full significance of the words they so carefully transcribed? I wonder if they were scared of making a mistake, especially given the risks involved if the text displeased powerful figures. Did they feel pressure in their role as the “keepers” of this text? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f2d3621c-c5f2-4bc3-ad7c-1134babbea97/IMG_4484.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 6) - Magna Carta - Ripple Effect of a Revolution While Magna Carta itself was in fact a failure as a peace treaty between the king and the barons, the ripple effect of that meeting at Runnymede of the king and his barons would linger on and on, eventually paving the way for democratic reforms that exist even today. What began as an agreement to curtail a king's power eventually laid the groundwork for parliamentary systems and broader notions of justice and personal liberty. Its reverberations were felt long after the ink had dried on that fateful June day in 1215. As we consider the impact Magna Carta had on everyday life, I invite you to reflect on a couple of interesting questions: Though originally focused on baronial concerns, how did the principles of Magna Carta gradually transform into an understanding of the importance of a voice for ordinary people? Did it plant the seeds of an idea that everyone, regardless of status, should have a say in governance or legal protection? It seemed that from the Peasants Revolt 150 years after Magna Carta, to later reform movements, this pivotal document served as a symbol of resistance to unjust rule. It is also fascinating to ponder just how did Magna Carta's legacy manage to inspire a movement towards broader social change, particularly in the context of human rights? https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/first-plantagenet-discoveries-tour monthly 0.5 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338405899-5OVK38MCXEBKXEZULXE1/PIF2409+IMG_5413EE.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - It finally happened… the very first Plantagenet Discoveries tour! After several years, it became a reality—and what a journey it was. As many of you may already know, Plantagenet Discoveries isn’t a big, faceless company, it’s very personal. My passion project—a labour of love that’s been growing for over two decades, fueled by every story of the Middle Ages that captured my heart. Each tale, each historical figure, and every piece of research ignited a spark that grew into this dream. Our inaugural tour was a myriad of emotions for me—relief, nerves, excitement, pride, and no shortage of a few anxious moments. Most importantly however, it was an experience that brought together a group of like-minded people who took a chance on a small, heartfelt idea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9478c643-fc8b-4dd3-a0b3-31c33dd3179a/PIF2409+Meet+n+Greet+Event.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - A Delightful Start at Le Camondo Our adventure kicked off with a lively Meet ‘n’ Greet event just a stone’s throw from our hotel in the heart of Paris, at the stunning Le Camondo restaurant. Over glasses of fine French wine, we began to acquaint ourselves, breaking the ice with a lively game of "Two Truths and a Lie." This simple yet entertaining activity—where each person shares three statements about themselves, and the group guesses the false one—elicited much laughter. However, I have to say that based on the results, detective work probably isn’t in any of our futures. Each participant received a "Travel Treasure" bag filled with thoughtful goodies, adding a touch of excitement for the journey ahead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ce0b4251-4075-470e-91e0-9439aa27f7c4/PIF2409+20240909_141002E.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - Tour Guide Extraordinaire At our Meet ‘n’ Greet, we were introduced to the gem of our journey—Ange, our local tour guide. Let me tell you, I was aware that having the right guide can make or break a tour, and with Ange, I absolutely hit the jackpot. From the very first handshake, it was clear that his deep knowledge and genuine passion for history would take our 10-night adventure to another level. But Ange’s role went far beyond sharing historical facts. He was a true all-rounder—always ready to lend a hand, whether that meant tracking down some “lost souls” in Bayeux, helping juggle our luggage, or bridging the language gap with our non-English-speaking coach driver. Whatever the need, Ange was always there with a willing smile. Being my very first tour as the manager, his support was invaluable. Offering brilliant suggestions for itinerary tweaks when circumstances changed, as well as input into the many lively discussions we had about historical sites and characters, his expertise never failed to shine through. If ever a question stumped him (which was rare), he was quick to dive into his phone or dig through notes to find the answer. His absolute love of history and architecture was evident, and it inspired all of us. And then, of course, there was his cheeky sense of humour. Ange’s friendly, approachable nature meant the group immediately warmed to him. No one hesitated to ask him questions or chat with him during our travels. He made France and it’s history, fun, engaging, and personal—a very rare talent indeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/2ada8aab-d8e0-45b8-9e00-39c6538a4598/Poitiers+20240908_073510E.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - Where History Meets Comfort: Exceptional Accommodations One of the important features of any deluxe tour is where you get to rest and recharge after a full day of historical exploration. On this tour, the places we called home for the night were nothing short of exceptional. Each hotel was chosen with care, not just for comfort, but for the stories they carried within their walls. They were not just a place to rest but an experience in itself - adding another layer to our journey through time. Take the Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde in Rouen, for example—a stunning building steeped in history, blending luxury with centuries-old architecture. In Poitiers, our home for the night was a historic gem where the service was impeccable and we were truly pampered, making us feel like we were very special indeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/aef8943a-ba0f-4372-8747-ac131619fabf/PIF2409+20240913_154356E.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - Christophe, Our Driving Hero While our tour guide played a vital role, we absolutely can’t forget another key player in our adventure—our fantastic coach driver, Christophe. From day one, we knew we were in good hands, and his ever-present smile quickly won over the entire group. Even though there was a bit of a language barrier, Christophe didn’t let that stop him. Whether using his phone with Google Translate or communicating through Ange, he made sure we always understood one another, and it felt like he was truly part of the team. And one cannot forget his care of Sir Fabian, our mascot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d784e386-edef-4078-8f01-6918707c4bd3/Mont+Saint-Michel+20240906_072459E.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - Stepping Back in Time: The Historic Sites Of course, the heart and soul of our tour were the historic sites themselves, and they certainly didn’t disappoint. To walk in the very footsteps of the Plantagenet kings, queens, and warriors we had only ever read about was nothing short of awe-inspiring. There were a few standout moments that left us all speechless. One of those was the enchanting tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel. We were fortunate enough to stay overnight on the island, and once the daytime crowds had gone, we almost had the whole place to ourselves. Wandering the cobbled streets in the golden light of late afternoon or the stillness of early morning was nothing short of magical—it felt as though we had slipped through time. Another highlight, the medieval walled city of Carcassonne, is one of France’s most iconic and visited sites, and for good reason. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/5143afd2-852e-46de-b653-fc0b05a28102/IMG_E3150.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - Tapestries, Cathedrals & a Castle Construction But these were just the beginning. The grandeur of the cathedrals and abbeys such as St. Étienne in Bourges or the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral in Rouen left us in awe, their towering spires and intricate stonework standing as testaments to centuries of faith and history. There were too many to name, but each one held its own beauty and story. And then the Bayeux Tapestry, an ancient masterpiece bringing the events of 1066 to life with remarkable detail. At Guédelon Castle, on a project unlike any other, we watched modern artisans, who are building a 13th-century castle using only period tools and techniques. It gave us all a deep appreciation for the skills involved in building the castles and cathedrals that we had visited. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7452c999-36c1-4aa3-987c-be70f66007be/Rouen+IMG_3717.JPG Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - A Feast for the Senses: The Food Where do I even begin when it comes to the food? Every meal on our tour was an experience in itself, each one with its own story to tell. Our Welcome Dinner set the tone for what was to come, held at La Couronne—dating back to 1345, it is the oldest restaurant in France. Dining within those historic walls was extraordinary, and the meals? Simply remarkable. Then there was the seafood platter on Mont Saint-Michel—a rather curious collection of shellfish that sparked plenty of conversation. But we embraced the adventure of it all, because isn’t that what travel is all about? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9206dbb3-43d9-471c-a800-f60553298b44/PIF2409+20240909_140907E.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - A Toast to the Past: The Wine While the heart of our tour was steeped in history, we couldn’t forget one essential element of any trip to France—and that is wine! However, I didn’t want this to be just any typical winery experience. I wanted to make it truly special, which I believe I succeeded in doing. From the moment we arrived in France, we had enjoyed incredible wines, no matter where we were. But in my mind, our day in Bordeaux had to be something extraordinary. After all, Bordeaux is one of the most renowned wine regions in the world, and its deep connection to the Plantagenets made it all the more relevant. The growth of the wine trade in France can be traced back to the union of Henry, Duke of Normandy and Eleanor, Duchess of Aquitaine—a historic bond that shaped both the history of France and the world of wine. Our visit to the wine museum in Bordeaux, though brief, offered us a glimpse into the significance of wine in the French economy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e12b6f63-51a8-45b6-972b-9d4973dfa2a3/PIF2409+20240907_191620E.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - Kindred Spirits: Friendship and Discussions If I had to choose one thing that stood out the most during this journey, it would be the deep sense of connection I felt with this incredible group of fellow travelers—my tribe. This trip wasn’t just about sharing an interest in the Plantagenets; it wasn’t just tourists following an itinerary; these were people who shared my passion, my excitement, and my love for history. It was beyond anything I could have imagined. I had arranged optional group discussions before dinner on a couple of evenings, not knowing quite what to expect. To my delight, the response was wonderful. What struck me most was the openness and respect everyone brought to the table. In my experience on social media, historical debates can often become tense or aggressive, but here it was different. We could share thoughts and differing opinions in a safe space where everyone felt comfortable and valued. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/4423e787-724a-4904-a31f-4079e9c28614/Paris+20240913_173627E.jpg Blog - The Journey Begins: Our First Plantagenet Discoveries Tour - A Bittersweet Farewell All too soon, our incredible journey came to an end. As we made our way back to Paris on that final day, I couldn’t help but wonder if the group’s thoughts mirrored my own: What an extraordinary adventure we’ve shared. But I had one more surprise left for the group—a fitting end to a truly special tour. Our Farewell Dinner was going to be an unforgettable evening, with premium tickets aboard a Seine River Dinner Cruise. Getting there was an adventure in itself! Two vans were booked to whisk us through the chaos of Paris rush-hour traffic, and let me tell you, navigating the heart of Paris at that time of day is no small feat. But as we arrived at the Port de Bourbonnaise, all the stress of the drive melted away when we caught sight of the Eiffel Tower, standing tall right in front of us, wow what a breathtaking moment. We boarded the boat, and as it glided along the Seine, we began the celebration with a glass of champagne, with glasses raised we toasted the magnificent adventure we had been part of, and from that moment, the evening was pure magic. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-5-bad-king-john monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338510554-BOTDRNNVMBKR11RCB3PB/dreamstime_m_40897183.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 5) - Bad King John - Welcome to the latest installment in our discovery of the Plantagenets! Join me as we traverse the tumultuous reign of a monarch whose infamy precedes him - that of Bad King John. Inheriting a legacy of grandeur and expectation, John was thrust into a position of unparalleled power. Sadly for him, though, he stumbled, faltered, and ultimately failed to live up to the legacy of his forebears. Within the chaos of his rule lie tales of defiance, brutality, murder and rebellion. From the shadowed corridors of medieval power to the windswept battlefields where men clashed in defiance of tyranny, John’s story is one that has divided historians for decades and continues to do so even today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b5912c47-4949-470e-9ba1-e5b627c45de3/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%285%29+Beaumont_Palace_plaque.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 5) - Bad King John - In the beginning John's reign began amidst a whirlwind of conflict and controversy. With the untimely demise of his brother in April 1199, the stage was set for a succession struggle unlike any other. Two contenders emerged, each laying claim to the throne through differing legal interpretations. Norman law favored John as the sole surviving son of Henry II, garnering support from the English and Norman nobility. Conversely, Angevin law backed the 15-year-old Arthur, progeny of John's elder brother Geoffrey, rallying the Breton, Maine, and Anjou nobles, along with King Philip Augustus of France. As we delve into the intricacies surrounding John's ascent to the throne, we're met with a tapestry of complexity. The vast Angevin Empire, belied a fragility that simmered beneath its surface. While many regions pledged fealty to the English crown, their allegiance was often tempered by distinct histories, traditions, and autonomous governance structures. Journeying southward, the grip of English authority grew increasingly tenuous, giving rise to a mosaic of disparate influences. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9dc99673-d7c1-4fc2-af7e-f531cee1b248/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%285%29+Falaise.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 5) - Bad King John - Death of Arthur I, Duke of Brittany Amidst the chaos of conflict, John's mother Eleanor, by this time, in her 80th year, attempted to intercede, journeying from Fontevraud Abbey to Poitiers to halt Arthur's advance. Yet, her efforts were thwarted when her grandson caught up with her at Château de Mirebeau and laid siege to the castle. In a daring move, John swiftly deployed his mercenary forces to relieve the siege, securing a decisive victory and capturing both Arthur and his sister, Eleanor of Brittany. Arthur's fate, however, remains a mystery. Despite being imprisoned initially at Château de Falaise and later at Rouen under the care of William de Braose, his disappearance after April 1203 remains unexplained. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734339597475-WKE42VQU5IJFMP96GNU5/Chateau+Gaillard+IMG_E1458.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 5) - Bad King John - Loss of Continental Lands John's hold in France seemed to be strengthened by his triumph at Mirebeau, bolstered further by the allegiance of newfound allies who abandoned Arthur's cause to flock to John's banner. Yet, true to form, John's own actions proved to be his undoing. In a realm where kinship ties ran deep among the regional nobility, John's harsh treatment of prisoners taken during the siege swiftly eroded his hard-won gains. The abysmal conditions in which rebel leaders were kept, resulting in the deaths of twenty-two, stirred outrage among their kin, leading to a mass defection from John's camp. Meanwhile, Brittany simmered with rebellion, with John finding himself financially strained and outmaneuvered by Philip's swift mobilization of resources. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/248b30ca-00c2-444d-8731-27c822f0acfd/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%285%29+IMG_E4294.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 5) - Bad King John - John as a Military Leader John's reputation as a less-than-pleasant character often colors our perception of his military prowess. However, upon closer examination of certain episodes in his reign, a different picture begins to emerge—one of a clever strategist with a knack for innovative warfare. Dubbed 'Softsword' by contemporary chroniclers for his willingness to pursue peace with France, John's aversion to pitched battles was not uncommon in an era where the costs of warfare were astronomically high, regardless of the outcome. Instances of military leaders seeking peace abound throughout history; even the illustrious Richard the Lionheart negotiated a truce with Saladin during the Third Crusade, with no accusations of cowardice tarnishing his legacy. In contrast to his reputation, John displayed a fervent commitment to siege warfare, a trait reminiscent of his father and brother. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0720a342-84e8-4464-92b5-bb607f98d90d/IMG_4213.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 5) - Bad King John - The First Baron’s War While tensions between John and his barons had been simmering for years, it was the outbreak of the First Baron's War, officially spanning from 1215 to 1216 in historical records, that marked the culmination of discontent. The catalyst for this seismic shift in power dynamics was the resounding defeat at the Battle of Bouvines and the subsequent collapse of John's final bid to reclaim Normandy—a watershed moment that proved to be the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back. Many of the disaffected barons hailed from the north of England, far removed from the conflict in France. Watching vast sums of money squandered on failed campaigns overseas, coupled with John's reputation for cruelty, pettiness, and arbitrary decision-making, left them increasingly disillusioned. The simmering tensions were made worse by John's contentious relationship with the Church, including a period of excommunication, which only served to fuel the flames of dissent. However, it was John's flagrant disregard for accountability and his habit of making life-and-death decisions without consultation that ultimately pushed the barons over the edge. Faced with mounting opposition, John attempted to placate the rebels while biding his time for explicit support from Pope Innocent III. By the time he sought reconciliation, it was too late—the barons had renounced their allegiance, rallying under the leadership of Robert Fitz Walter. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-4-the-crusader-king monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338588149-EAQOM9EZBI2J7FOIHY3Y/Chateau+Gaillard+EFIXED.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 4) - The Crusader King - Step back in time with us as we continue our discovery into the remarkable era of the Plantagenets, this time shining a spotlight on the legendary Richard the Lionheart (Cœur de Lion). Renowned for his prowess as a warrior king, Richard's indomitable spirit gave him many triumphs, including the 3rd Crusade, earning him lasting acclaim. Yet, as we explore his 10-year reign, we'll uncover the twists of fate that led to his capture on the journey home—a dramatic chapter in the life of this iconic monarch. Stay tuned for a look at the highs and lows of Richard's reign, culminating in his untimely death and departure from the stage of medieval history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/3451a1c0-07f5-4c9b-aee0-0ba500a138f3/Richard_coeur_de_lion.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 4) - The Crusader King - In the beginning Born on the 8th September, 1157, as the third son of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine, Richard was never expected to ascend the English throne, however from an early age he seemed to be the favourite son of Eleanor and she had him pinned as her successor to the Duchy of Aquitaine. Despite being born at Beaumont Palace in Oxford, England, his heart was always set on the treasures of Southern France, most likely instilled in him by his mother. It was much more than just the lands he ruled, Richard embraced the culture, people, and even the poetry of his southern domain. A musical virtuoso and poet, a talent obviously inherited from his great-grandfather, William IX, Duke of Aquitaine, the great troubadour, Richard’s musical talents transcended centuries, with modern musicians immortalising his verses. His early years were spent in England, and considering that, from the conquest up to the 14th century, the court in general would have spoken Anglo-Norman French, this would most likely have been his first language. However, as was normal for the sons of a king, Richard would have been well educated in several languages including Latin and French, and from the first time he landed on the continent at the age of 7, he also would have learnt to speak Occitan, the language of Southern France. Following in his father’s formidable footsteps, Richard’s military prowess emerged early on. In June, 1172, at just 14 years, he formally ascended to the titles of Duke of Aquitaine and Count of Poitou in a grand ceremony at Poitiers, donning the ring of St Valerie, who was the patron saint of Limoges, and personification of Aquitaine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/39728916-9cab-4b18-9fa1-953ba833f1ed/Richard_L%C3%B6wenhez%2C_Salbung_zum_K%C3%B6nig.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 4) - The Crusader King - The Third Crusade Ever since his father's passing, Richard was determined to embark on a crusade, but this sacred journey turned out to be quite a rollercoaster ride. Over a span of three years, Richard, alongside Philip II of France and Frederick I, Holy Roman Emperor, embarked on a mission to reclaim Jerusalem for Christians. While this historical venture has faced criticism from historians, it's important to delve into the complexities. The financial strain on the realm was substantial, considering the colossal expenses involved in mobilizing 10,000 men across land and sea. Additionally, the prolonged absence of the king from his realm immediately after his coronation raised eyebrows. The internal conflicts among the crusade's leaders, coupled with Richard's perceived arrogance and clash with Duke Leopold of Austria, culminated in his capture on the journey home and an exorbitant ransom imposed on his subjects. To add a twist to the tale, the ultimate goal of reclaiming the holy city of Jerusalem was left unfulfilled, casting a shadow over the entire expedition and prompting questions about its worth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/993266c0-a16c-438a-98ee-1703179c38d8/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%284%29+Durnstein_castle.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 4) - The Crusader King - A Kings Ransom On the 9th October, 1192 Richard set sail for home, concerned about the mischief stirred by his brother John during his absence. However, unfavourable weather diverted his ship to Corfu, a territory belonging to the Byzantine Emperor Isaac II Angelos.The Emperor, displeased with Richard for the conquest of Cyprus, added another layer of complexity. Opting for discretion, Richard sailed from Corfu in disguise, accompanied by only four attendants and dressed as a Knight Templar. Yet, another bout of bad weather intervened, leading to the shipwreck near Aquileia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/4567de72-a31e-4114-9752-59dedfad6354/IMG_E1739.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 4) - The Crusader King - The Final Years During Richard's captivity, Normandy had succumbed to the control of Philip, King of France. Following a second coronation in March 1194, Richard embarked on the task of reclaiming the Duchy. The capture of the chateau of Gisors by the French had left a vulnerable gap in Norman defenses. To safeguard Normandy from Philip's ambitions and establish a base for reclaiming the Vexin, Richard defied an agreement with the French king and commenced the construction of Chateau Gaillard, perched strategically above the river Seine near Andelys. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/841a598f-f02a-4405-9dec-2f7dcfc53db1/IMG_E1801.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 4) - The Crusader King - This remarkable fortress, more than just a stronghold, became Richard's pride and joy, costing an astonishing £15,000 to £20,000. Remarkably, the construction, which would typically take a decade for a castle of this magnitude, was completed in a mere two years, from 1196 to 1198. Unfortunately, Richard's enjoyment of his masterpiece was short-lived. In March 1199, shortly after the fortress's completion, Richard found himself suppressing a revolt in the Limousin. While besieging the small castle of Chalus-Chabrol, he was struck in the shoulder by a crossbow bolt during a routine perimeter walk. The wound turned gangrenous, and on April 6, 1199, at the age of 41, Richard passed away in the arms of his mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-3-the-angevin-empire monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338694664-2YY020YT5X8JKHAFEUWF/IMG_E1727.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 3) - The Angevin Empire - The 35 year reign of Henry II, was a period teeming with controversy, conflict and betrayal. Yet, amidst the tumult, this vibrant and dynamic monarch carved out an extraordinary empire that stretched from the Scottish borders to the foothills of the Pyrenees. Henry’s rule was remarkable - a time of transformative government and groundbreaking legal reforms that would echo through the corridors of history for centuries to come. In Part 3 of my blog series, we will explore the spectacular journey of the first Plantagenet king and the extraordinary tale of the kingdom he built, a story brimming with his indomitable spirit, together with his rise and sadly, his fall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/08cb00f7-5265-442c-a682-4f630e96bf37/Poitiers+Cathedral+IMG_7739.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 3) - The Angevin Empire - In the beginning As a very young man, Henry successfully navigated the treacherous water of politics and warfare with a finesse that belied his age. Championing his mother, the formidable Empress Matilda through the later years of the Anarchy, he emerged as a political and military prodigy. At a mere 17, the crown jewel of Normandy was placed on his head by his father, Geoffrey, and the following year, on his father’s passing, the inheritance of Anjou, Maine and Touraine fell into his capable hands. To anybody with foresight, Henry’s audacious and energetic personality was an unmistakable sign that he was destined to be a force to be reckoned with. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/57a01ed8-7610-4fd1-85ff-d9ff28746eb7/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%283%29+Henry_II_Illumination+%281%29.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 3) - The Angevin Empire - Henry dove headfirst into repairing the chaos left behind by the Anarchy. He began to build a reputation as a king willing to restore the system of royal justice that had been present in his grandfather’s reign two decades earlier. The long civil war had caused considerable disruption to a system of royal finances that Henry I had put in place, records show that royal income fell by an incredible 46% between 1129-1130 and 1155-1156. Henry really had his work cut out for him. There were unauthorised castles scattered across the English landscape like oversized chess pieces, and Henry, the strategic player, swiftly set about knocking them down. By gradually expanding the role of royal justice in England, he was able to produce a much more coherent legal system. Unlike his autocratic mother, he made it clear from the beginning that he was willing to listen to counsel from more experienced advisers. But that was not all, by 1158, he had reclaimed lost territories in Scotland and Wales, the spoils of rulers only too happy to take advantage during the unrest of the Anarchy. Meanwhile, on the home front, he wasn’t slacking off either, ensuring that one of the most vital demands of kingship, that of securing the succession with legitimate heirs, was taken care of. In the first 12 years of their marriage Eleanor bore five sons and three daughters, with only one of them, the firstborn William, not surviving childhood. Talk about a royal baby boom! Henry’s reign was off to a fantastic start! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f52c627d-b472-41ea-b5bd-f21235fdb607/Canterbury+Cathedral+Blog+IMG_E4353.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 3) - The Angevin Empire - Conflict between Church and State Most people associate Henry II with the saintly martyr Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury. Their complex relationship, a rollercoaster of camaraderie and conflict fascinates historians to this very day. From humble beginnings, Thomas caught the eye of Henry when he was recommended by Theobald of Bec, Archbishop of Canterbury, for the prestigious post of Lord Chancellor in 1155. The two quickly became close friends, engaging in the royal court’s pursuits, from hunting to gaming, despite their apparent personality differences. While Thomas revelled in the opulence of courtly life, Henry, a no-nonsense king, had no love of pomp and ceremony and often teased his friend for his extravagant tastes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/bfd981db-a851-4bf0-8572-160a68167b68/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%283%29+IMG_7397.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 3) - The Angevin Empire - The Great Revolt of 1173-1174 Sadly for Henry, the drama in his reign did not stop with the demise of Becket. Despite his triumphs as a ruler, it seemed as his offspring grew, the more volatile family relationships became. I guess there is a reason they were nicknamed ‘the Devil’s brood.’ With strategic marriages made for his daughters - Matilda to Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony, Eleanor to Alfonso VIII of Castille, and Joan (Joanna) to William II of Sicily - Henry had secured some very powerful alliances. But, as the boys grew to manhood, the scene was like a medieval family sitcom with plots and twists at every turn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f1615497-9f82-4833-b0d7-f8c948091601/Peter_of_Capua_mediating_between_Philip_Augustus_and_Richard_I_of_England%2C_from_Chroniques_de_France_ou_de_St_Denis%2C_14th_century_%2822702900162%29.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 3) - The Angevin Empire - The Final Turbulent Years The following 14 years of Henry’s reign, rather than being peaceful as I am sure he would have imagined after his decisive victory over the rebellion of 1173-74, continued to be a time of trouble and strife for the Angevin monarch. Trying to mend the family breach, Henry recognised Richard as Duke of Aquitaine in 1179, and celebrated Geoffrey’s marriage to Constance in 1181, officially making him Duke of Brittany. Young Henry however, continued to press for more lands, and Henry refused, though he did increase his allowance. Meanwhile, John, like a shadow, remained close to his father, leading to much comment about him being the favourite son. Despite this, the family drama was far from over. During this time, just to add to the chaos, Louis, ever the mischief-maker, was in the background causing dissent and constantly warring with Henry over continental lands. In 1180, Louis died and his son Phillip Augustus became King. Like his father before him, Phillip was happy to exploit the tension between the Angevin brood, and it was becoming evident that he too could be assertive, calculating and manipulative. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9bd8deba-a884-4fb2-8f88-c247f5e1e7ef/Fontevraud+Abbey+Eleanor+%26+Henry+Tombs.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 3) - The Angevin Empire - Who was Henry II? Let’s take a detour from the dry facts and dive into the intriguing realm of character analysis, inspired by a lively Messenger chat with a dear friend from the USA. A big shoutout to this Plantagenet enthusiast who willingly allowed me to make use of our conversation as a feature on my blog. Thank you my friend, you know who you are! We’ve all seen the descriptions of Henry II - energetic, vibrant, stubborn, fiery, and a bit of a control freak. When the topic of his bull-headedness and reluctance to loosen the reins on his sons came up, my friend (and she made sure it was in capitals I might add) hit back with an absolute gem - “SERIOUSLY, LOOK AT WHO HIS PARENTS WERE!” Now, that really got the wheels of my imagination turning. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-2-the-anarchy monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/602efa89-6ace-4d98-8a5d-b5f88d5c0db3/Lincoln+Castle+Walls+IMG_E4255.JPG Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 2) - The Anarchy - The pivotal moment in history that unfolded after the passing of Henry I in the 12th century, giving birth to what would become known as “the anarchy.” England, a kingdom celebrated for its justice, peace, prosperity, and piety, was now unrecognisably torn asunder, plunged into an abyss of discord, shattered loyalties, and insurrection. It is no wonder it was said this haunting chapter of English history was “a time when Christ and his saints slept”. Building upon the foundation laid in Part 1 of my blog series, let us journey through the catastrophic events that resulted from the young heir’s demise in 1120. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/75651491-d355-43a9-a178-0013f96da132/Stepan_Blois.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 2) - The Anarchy - With the hope of a legitimate male heir fading, Henry had no choice but to turn to his daughter as his successor. He nominated Matilda as his heir and, despite some reluctance from his nobility, made his court swear an oath of loyalty to her and her heirs. Sadly, Henry’s death took everyone by surprise, and his nephew Stephen of Blois, with the backing of his brother Henry, Bishop of Winchester, seized the English throne and the Duchy of Normandy, being crowned on December 22, 1135. It is interesting to note that along with all of Henry’s court, Stephen too had sworn to uphold Matilda’s claim to the throne. His rationale for breaking his oath was that the preservation of order throughout the kingdom took precedence over his earlier pledges. Little did he know that the next 18 years would be marked by chaos and turmoil, the polar opposite of the ‘order’ he had hoped to maintain. The early years of Stephen’s reign painted a vivid tapestry of conflict and turmoil. He found himself entangled in fierce battles with disloyal barons, rebellious Welsh leaders, and ongoing border disputes with the Scots in northern England. Initially, a significant portion of the nobility favoured the idea of a male monarch, believing it to be a wise choice. However, this perception soon eroded as Stephen’s rule revealed his shortcomings. While Stephen possessed a charming personality, he proved to be an ineffective ruler. His indecisiveness, a tendency to make empty threats, and a penchant for pardoning even the most notorious rebels made it challenging for him to command respect. As the Empress Matilda launched her invasion of England in 1139, with the support of her half-brother Robert of Gloucester, many influential nobles abandoned Stephen’s cause, pledging their allegiance to the Empress. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/21c58e10-8c71-48bd-8bf4-0f4fa3ec30d5/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%282%29+Empress_Mathilda.png Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 2) - The Anarchy - In the ensuing years, the conflict yielded no clear victors, gradually tapering into a virtual stalemate. By the late 1140’s, the intensity of the fighting had waned. Matilda faced setbacks with the loss of key supporters, namely the death of Robert of Gloucester in 1147 and Brian Fitz Count’s withdrawal from public life and later passing away in 1151. Meanwhile, Stephen struggled to solidify his rule, especially after Geoffrey of Anjou conquered Normandy on behalf of Matilda in 1144. Recognising the likelihood of his son Henry ascending the throne instead of his wife, Geoffrey involved the young heir in governing the family lands on the continent. In 1147, Henry, at just 14 years old, attempted a daring invasion of England with a mercenary force, but financial constraints led to the mission's failure. Seeking funds from his mother, Matilda refused, expressing anger at his endeavour. Interestingly, it was King Stephen who ultimately paid Henry’s mercenaries, perhaps believing that the youth posed no threat. A year later, Matilda returned to Normandy, resigned to the fact that she would probably never claim the throne herself, and instead working to promote Henry’s claim to the throne. The English nobles, disheartened by the prolonged strife and the prospect of Stephen’s vicious and unpopular son Eustace, inheriting the throne, were seeking alternatives, even making personal treaties and alliances between themselves. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rise-of-the-plantagenets-part-1-the-white-ship monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338841745-51ZPQK1LGM6I446Z708O/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%281%29+dreamstime_m_209169651.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 1) - The White Ship - No one could have imagined how, on a chilly November day over 900 years ago, an overindulgence of wine, together with the courageous actions of a loving brother, would lead to a tragedy that would completely alter the course of history. When the White Ship sank off the coast of Barfleur on the 25th November, 1120, this single event that would go down in history as the greatest maritime disaster of the Middle Ages, and would herald in a royal dynasty that would forever reshape the landscape of Medieval England. In the coming weeks, we will discover the riveting saga of the Plantagenet Dynasty, a line of rulers that would totally transform England, laying the foundation for monarchy, democracy and society as we know it today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fb8c3efd-5164-4f86-9110-95a623b7b162/Illustrations+Copy+of+WhiteShipSinking+OTD+25_11_2022.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 1) - The White Ship - The crew of the White Ship, proud of their splendid vessel and delighted with their royal assignment, were happy to brag about the capabilities of their ship. Fueled by plenty of wine, and the atmosphere of youthful vigor, a suggestion was made that they could easily overtake the King’s ship, which had departed several hours earlier. These young nobles, eager to stay in the good graces of their future king, couldn’t resist the challenge, especially when William himself agreed wholeheartedly. The excitement for the race was most likely spiced up with plenty of wagers on the outcome. An interesting note, in those superstitious times, was that priests who offered blessings for the ship’s maiden voyage were insulted and mocked, leaving the ship unblessed. All of these facts combined really was a recipe for disaster. As evening fell, William and his entourage were finally ready to give up the delights of Barfleur and set sail for the journey home to England. The vessel carried approximately 300 people, including 150 oarsmen, who were encouraged by both captain and passengers to row vigorously in order to outpace the King’s ship. They were less than a mile out when tragedy struck! The coast around Barfleur is notorious for its treacherous currents and rocks and sadly the White Ship was travelling way too fast when she hit the submerged rock named Quillebœf and capsized. She began sinking, and passengers were tossed into the freezing black water, their cries swiftly stilled by the darkness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/cecd86ee-086a-4463-9ab6-fc90f7d6b30e/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%281%29+381px-BL_Royal_20_A._ii%2C_f._6v._Henry_I_%26_White_Ship.jpg Blog - Rise of a Dynasty: Unveiling the Plantagenets (Part 1) - The White Ship - In closing, this poem titled “He Never Smiled Again”, by Felicia Hemans, is a true reflection of the sombre aftermath of this tragedy. The bark that held a prince went down, the sweeping waves rolled on; And what was England’s glorious crown, to him that wept a son? He lived - for life may long be borne, ere sorrow break its chain; Why comes not death to those who mourn? He never smiled again! There stood proud forms around his throne, the stately and the brave, But which could fill the place of one, that one beneath the wave? Before him passed the young and fair, in pleasure’s reckless train, But seas dashed o’er his son’s bright hair, He never smiled again! He sat where festal bowls went round, he heard the minstrel sing, He saw the Tourney’s victor crowned, amidst the knightly ring: A murmur of the restless deep, was bent with every strain, A voice of winds that would not sleep, He never smiled again! Hearts, in that time, closed o’er the trace, of vows once fondly poured, And strangers took the kinsman’s place, at many a joyous board; Graves, which true love had bathed with tears, were left to Heaven’s bright rain, Fresh hopes were born for other years, He never smiled again! Felicia Dorothea Browne Hemans, 1793-1835 https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/tower-of-london-part-4-lesser-known-identities monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338888983-0GT5Y03KAG7WIRN6XKBF/Tower+of+London+Blog+%284%29+DSC_6569.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 4) - Lesser Known Identities - While we have so far explored the Tower of London as a mighty fortress, an opulent palace and a notorious prison, this is just the tip of the iceberg in the rich 1,000-year history of this amazing site. In this blog, I will reveal some of its more extraordinary roles, unveiling the hidden facets that continue to attract thousands of visitors every year. Join me on a journey to uncover the lesser-known, yet equally intriguing identities of this iconic landmark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/23729464-e7e6-4e64-a23a-8d1d65cc6d84/Tower+of+London+Blog+%284%29+DSC_E6651.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 4) - Lesser Known Identities - The Menagerie The Tower of London has boasted some truly fascinating roles throughout its history, but one of the most intriguing was that of a royal menagerie. The beginning of this exotic collection can be traced back to 1235 when Henry III received an unusual gift from the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, that of three lions. Inspired by this incredible gift, Henry decided to transform part of the Tower into a zoo. This marked the onset of a strange medieval custom where monarchs exchanged rare and peculiar animals as presents. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1b81f1f5-2f70-4a8b-8982-f984a07ecd7c/Tower+of+London+Blog+%284%29+DSC_6556.JPG Blog - The Tower of London (Part 4) - Lesser Known Identities - Eventually in 1824 the founding of the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) heralded a shift in public sentiment towards animal welfare. This fact combined with growing concerns about the menagerie’s nuisance factor and the financial strain of maintaining it, the Duke of Wellington made the decision to close its operation. Interestingly enough, the 150 remaining animals found a new home in Regent’s Park, forming the foundation of what is now London Zoo. As for the Lion Tower, in later years it was demolished. Today, as you wander around the Tower you will see several sculptures that commemorate some of the former inhabitants of the Tower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/3992ae01-1f26-4850-9d3b-bde9bfecf233/Sir_Isaac_Newton.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 4) - Lesser Known Identities - The Mint The Tower’s Mint held a remarkable role in shaping England’s currency for over five centuries. Its fascinating history begins around 1279 when King Edward I, well aware of the impressive security within the Tower, established the Mint within its fortified walls. To set it apart from the Tower’s other activities, a dedicated area was carved out, which became known as Mint Street. Now the health and safety of the Mint’s labourers was not a top priority, and let me tell you, it was no walk in the park. The perilous nature of coin production was twofold. First, there were the toxic chemicals essential for coin creation, with workers constantly exposed to their fumes, there was certainly no sign of today’s mandatory protective gear. Second, the equipment itself posed significant risks, featuring colossal fiery furnaces that presented the neverending danger of serious burns. Until the 1600’s, when mechanisation came into play, every coin was meticulously handcrafted. One individual would position a handmade metal piece between two intricately engraved stamps called dies, while another would deliver a precise hammer strike. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/be80f8ae-7409-490d-a846-88543433dea7/DSC_E6700.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 4) - Lesser Known Identities - The Moat Soldiers Encampment - In 1897 during Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations the moat was used to house the hundreds of soldiers who were encamped there for the festivities. A Fishery - Edward I began the practice of farming fish in the moat when in 1292, he sent for a large stock of young pike to be released into the moat. Using the moat as a food source continued for many centuries, in fact, a perfectly preserved wicker fish trap, dating from the 15th or 16th century was discovered in the moat, complete with fish skeletons inside. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/tower-of-london-part-3-a-prison monthly 0.5 2025-06-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ffb0f83d-4999-41c2-a1c5-364fa491f3f8/Tower+of+London+Blog+%283%29+DSC_E6591.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 3) - A Prison - Facing the prospect of being “sent to The Tower” must have been a truly terrifying ordeal. The mere mention of it conjures up images of a bleak and ominous fortress, where prisoners endured their days in dark and damp cells. While it is indeed accurate that throughout the Middle Ages, the Tower served as a prison, it may come as a surprise to learn that it didn’t always match the grim and fearsome reputation it often carries. Behind the imposing stone walls of this renowned prison, we can discover not only chambers of torture and dungeon cells, but also opulent apartments where affluent prisoners resided in the company of their servants and attendants. The only conspicuous absence being their freedom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/592042ee-a5e3-40ec-b574-fc26743d1359/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%289%29+DSC_6562.JPG Blog - The Tower of London (Part 3) - A Prison - Famous Prisoners Ranulf Flambard, Bishop of Durham - A prominent government minister during the reign of King William Rufus of England, Flambard’s career commenced during the time of William the Conqueror. On the death of the king, Ranulf then chose to serve his successor William Rufus, where he rapidly garnered recognition for his role in managing the realm’s finances. Unfortunately, following the untimely death of King William Rufus in a hunting accident in 1100, Ranulf found himself imprisoned by the new King Henry I in the Tower of London. He was found guilty of extortion, undoubtedly becoming a convenient scapegoat for the financial irregularities of Rufus’s reign. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/eb4ecabb-f300-4601-ba57-d5034ae06cea/Tower+of+London+Blog+%283%29+IMG_3609.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 3) - A Prison - Baroness Badlesmere, Margaret de Clare - This particular tale features a remarkable woman who dared to insult Isabella, the Queen of England and consort to King Edward II. To add to her audacity, she even commanded her archers to open fire on the queen, resulting in her imprisonment in the Tower for a year. Margaret’s husband Baron Badlesmere held the esteemed position of Governor of the Royal Caste of Leeds in Kent, which interestingly enough, was part of the Queen’s dower. During the Queen’s pilgrimage to the shrine of St Thomas in Canterbury, she decided to make an overnight stop at Leeds Castle. At that time, Baron Badlesmere, who had become disaffected with King Edward due to his favouritism towards Hugh Despenser the younger, was absent, leaving his wife in charge of the castle and its riches. When the Queen sought entry to the castle, Baroness Badlesmere, displaying remarkable nerve, denied her, confronting Isabella’s marshal on the drawbridge and informing him that “the Queen must seek some other lodging, for she would not admit anyone within the castle without her Lord’s permission”. She then ordered her archers to unleash a deadly volley of arrows from the battlements, resulting in the deaths of six of Isabella’s escort. News of this profound insult to his Queen reached Edward, prompting him to assemble a formidable force and lay siege to the castle.Following a relentless five-day assault on the fortress, Margaret surrendered, having received assurances of clemency from the King. This event marked Margaret as the first woman to incarcerated in the Tower of London. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fd23cd8f-9d1d-4d7b-8190-59b532f393b1/Tower+of+London+Blog+%283%29.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 3) - A Prison - The Princes in the Tower - Once again we find ourselves immersed in the intrigue of the Wars of the Roses, but this time the focus shifts to undeniably, the most famous prisoners of the Tower, and a mystery that continues to baffle historians to this day. In the year 1483, the young King Edward V and his brother Richard, Duke of York, were placed in the Tower under the guise of their protection. However, their fate took a sinister turn as they mysteriously vanished without a trace. Historical accounts tell us that the boys were last seen innocently playing with bows and arrows in the Tower’s garden on the 16th June, 1483. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/2ca9796f-e292-4508-90c1-dd73939f8782/Tower+of+London+DSC_6571a.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 3) - A Prison - The Queens of Henry VIII - No account of the Tower of London is complete without delving into the tragic story of two of Henry VIII’s queens. Anne Boleyn, his second wife, became infamous when she was unjustly accused of adultery, incest, and treason in 1536. Her failure to provide Henry with a male heir played a significant role in her eventual downfall. Following a swift trial, she met her end within the Tower’s walls, her execution carried out with a sword rather than an axe, as was the French method. Interestingly, due to her high status, Anne Boleyn was one of only seven individuals granted the privacy of a secluded execution on Tower Green, away from the public eye. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1f200002-9142-43b2-b325-cdf33cea8dc3/Tower+of+London+Blog+%283%29+DSC_6554.JPG Blog - The Tower of London (Part 3) - A Prison - Torture at the Tower Torture was not as widespread at the Tower of London as is commonly believed. Employed during the 15th and 16th centuries, its primary purpose was to extract information. This would often be related to co-conspirators in specific crimes, however historical records indicate that only 48 individuals were actually subjected to this ordeal. From the mid-17th century on, torture at the Tower was discontinued due to criticism that it was not only cruel but totally ineffective - after all, prisoners on the rack would agree to anything to secure their release. Today, within the Wakefield Tower, an exhibit showcases various torture methods, offering a chilling glimpse into the past and the horrifying pain inflicted by these instruments. Below are the three primary torture devices used. Duke of Exeter’s Daughter - More commonly known as The Rack, this torture device had the notorious reputation of being the most widely used and well-known of the dreaded instruments used in the Tower of London. Named after John Holland, 2nd Duke of Exeter, a constable of the Tower in the 15th century, its malevolent design aimed to stretch the body to the utmost limit, even to the point of dislocating limbs and tearing them from their sockets. Many prisoners would be more than willing to surrender their secrets simply by the mere sight of this horrifying apparatus, it was only those who steadfastly refused to cooperate, who would suffer the excruciating pain of the rack. In the 16th century when religious turmoil was at its height this particular method of torture was utilised by several monarchs, both Catholic and Protestant alike, including Mary I, Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/be80f8ae-7409-490d-a846-88543433dea7/Tower+of+London+Blog+%284%29+DSC_E6700.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 3) - A Prison - Escape from the Tower When conjuring images of the Tower of London, we automatically think of a formidable fortress, complete with imposing gates, an intimidating moat, and fearsome guards. However, history reveals that, for a small number of prisoners incarcerated within those seemingly impenetrable walls, these barriers proved to be no hindrance at all in attempting the impossible - escape from the Tower of London. Here are just a couple that I found most interesting, some successful and others not so much… https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/tower-of-london-part-2-a-not-so-humble-dwelling monthly 0.5 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/37defe86-221f-44e7-8d80-4724f0a2aef7/Tower+of+London+Blog+%282%29+Lanthorn+Tower.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 2) - A Not so Humble Dwelling - When our thoughts gravitate towards the Tower of London, we immediately consider it to be the bastion of unparalleled protection within the realm, standing as a testament to centuries of maintaining order. However, delving deeper into its history unveils a key purpose that often escapes immediate attention - its pivotal role as a distinguished residence. Read on further to discover the Tower’s identity as more than just a stronghold, but rather its enduring role as a humble yet resplendent abode. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/764bf1fa-1b3e-4ac6-a9b4-e47cc5e2a301/Tower+of+London+Blog+%282%29The+Lost+Palace.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 2) - A Not so Humble Dwelling - In the heart of this scene was St Thomas’s Tower, Wakefield Tower and the Lanthorn Tower, collectively christened ‘the Medieval Palace’, where a vast complex stood at the core of the Tower’s residential domain. These towers were more than just lodging, they were marvels of majesty, adorned in resplendence, totally befitting even the most illustrious of medieval sovereigns. Spanning the reigns of both Henry III, and his son Edward I, the grandeur of the palace materialised between the years 1216 and 1307. Do not be deceived however, at this time the Medieval Palace consisted of much more than the three remaining towers we see today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/98eee8cb-4da0-4ede-8baf-c0fbcf2ec884/Tower+of+London+Blog+%282%29+Royal+Bedroom.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 2) - A Not so Humble Dwelling - St Thomas’s Tower St Thomas’s Tower stands as a testament to Edward I’s visionary touch, its foundations laid around 1275. As you gaze upon the tower today, a bustling wharf separates it from the rhythmic embrace of the Thames. But in ages past, this construction did not exist, and the tower instead, would have extended its reach to the very waters below. Can you imagine Edward marvelling at the magnificent and unrivaled view of the Thames, from the very chambers he called home. Beneath the shadow of his regal apartments, a stately archway stood, always ready to welcome Edward’s royal barge. Known in later centuries as the haunting Traitors’ Gate, it served as a private gateway to the Tower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f74acfa4-d5fa-4696-8ff8-184c9f486ce4/Tower+of+London+Blog+%282%29+DSC_6657.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 2) - A Not so Humble Dwelling - The Wakefield Tower Between 1220 and 1240, on Henry III’s orders, the building of royal lodgings for himself and his queen, Eleanor of Provence took place, resulting in the magnificent Wakefield Tower. Imagine this impressive tower, perched right at the waters edge. Here, Henry could embark from his boat and ascend his private stairs, leading to a postern gate allowing safe entry into his luxuriant chambers. Within the heart of the tower is the grand audience chamber, echoing with history and boasting a meticulous replica of a 13th-century throne and its resplendent canopy. This throne was inspired by the hallowed Coronation Chair at Westminster Abbey, a creation designed specifically for Edward I. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/64e3c9db-1bb4-49a0-82d7-d285821432fd/Tower+of+London+Blog+%282%29+DSC_6583.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 2) - A Not so Humble Dwelling - The Queen’s House In the shadow of Tower Green, the half-timbered Queen’s House, was built around 1530 during the reign of the indomitable Henry VIII. Its very presence, distinctive in its style from all other structures within the Tower, certainly beckons curiosity. If these walls could whisper their secrets, what captivating tales they might unveil. We would hear stories of Queen Elizabeth I’s royal feasts within its chambers. They might recount the dramatic confession of Guy Fawkes in 1608, his role in the audacious Gunpowder Plot to blow up James I and the magnificent Houses of Parliament. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ea3c7a30-4aa1-48f8-ad4f-4f243bc2f6cc/Yeoman+Warders.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 2) - A Not so Humble Dwelling - Modern Residents of the Tower Today, the Queen’s House serves as the dwelling of the Resident Governor of the Tower of London. Once it was the domain of the Lieutenant of the Tower, entrusted with the solemn duty of overseeing illustrious prisoners. The Tower’s evolution from fortress to dwelling has happened over many centuries. Within the confines of the impressive stone walls, the echoes of the past blend with the bustling footsteps of modern inhabitants. As we explore this iconic site, we are fascinated by the history unfolding, and the incredible architecture that has stood for almost 1,000 years. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/tower-of-london-part-1-the-fortress monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/47ac2f8a-8a16-45af-8250-541ca2079253/Tower+of+London+1.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 1) - The Fortress - Discover the fascination of the Tower, officially His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, a prominent historical fortress residing proudly on the northern banks of the River Thames. Founded in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest of 1066, this castle stands as the ultimate symbol of London’s heritage. Join me as we delve into the extraordinary tale of a fortress born from conquest, a journey through the tapestry of almost a millennium of tales and secrets intricately woven within the very stones of the Tower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/382663e9-2394-4a5b-8e21-777cff0c3f1d/Tower+of+London+Blog+%281%29+IMG_3726E.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 1) - The Fortress - Taking a circuitous route towards London, William charted his path with the founding of multiple castles along the way. In his quest to secure the capital, an obstinate challenge arose - a fortified bridge that served as the sole entry point to the city, defended by steadfast Saxon troops. Undaunted, William opted to first lay siege to Southwark, before resuming his journey across the expanse of southern England. His ingenious tactic involved targeting key supply routes to the city, a strategy that proved to be staggeringly effective. By December 1066, isolated and intimidated, the leaders of London capitulated without a fight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/2bd2303c-0214-45d0-b6ae-2c28ee142634/Tower+of+London+Blog+%281%29.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 1) - The Fortress - The Tower’s Evolution: The reign of Richard I and King John There was very little change to the castle that was established by William and his son until the dynamic era of Richard the Lionheart in 1189. A fascinating account gleaned from the Pipe Rolls revealed that from an astounding £7,000 invested by Richard in fortifications across England, a staggering £2,881 was dedicated to enhancing the tower. While Richard embarked on the 3rd Crusade to the Holy Land, the reins of England’s government were handed to William Longchamp, entrusted with both the mantle of Lord Chancellor and the guardianship of the Tower.Under Longchamp’s supervision, the Tower’s expansion continued, all the while under the threat of war with Prince John, who had arrived in England attempting to seize power in Richard’s absence. The newly fortified ramparts faced their baptism by fire in October 1191 when it was besieged for the first time in its history. Yet, in just three days Longchamp’s resolve yielded to the pragmatic pull of surrender, leaving observers to wonder whether the ramparts he had meticulously reinforced would actually hold for a prolonged siege. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/500fc068-007a-4ebc-b2f7-86c840cce17e/Tower+of+London+3.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 1) - The Fortress - Transformations Unveiled - Henry III to Edward I The reigns of both Henry III and Edward I ushered in a profound transformation in the Tower of London’s visage, shaping it into the iconic structure that graces the London skyline today. Henry’s reign heralded a shift in the Tower’s purpose, as it changed into a haven of refuge for kings in trouble and a royal residence. In 1238 Henry’s retreat to the Tower was met with dismay at the fortress’s outdated defenses. In response, he decreed that the construction of a mighty fortified gateway be commenced. This was positioned north of the modern western entrance, a building that was completed in 1240. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c504fd5b-9e5a-4854-9793-944a997a1320/DSC_6650E.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 1) - The Fortress - Edward I, a seasoned architect of castle building honed by crusading experience, introduced innovation to his fortification endeavours. His legacy of castle building was cemented in the extensive projects undertaken during the process of his conquest of Wales, and this fact became obvious in his reshaping of the very landscape of the Tower of London. He commenced by filling in the moat that had been excavated by his father, and constructing a fresh curtain wall along that line, completely redefining the enclosure. A new moat emerged in front of this curtain wall - a watery barrier meant to deter attackers, as well as thwart attempts to undermine the massive stone walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/430bf1f3-6a62-49de-a84d-92e420f9c744/Tower+of+London+2.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 1) - The Fortress - The Scene of Rebellion - The Peasants Revolt of 1381 June of 1381 witnessed a tremendous upheaval in English history - the famous Peasants’ Revolt. Led by the indomitable Wat Tyler, a colossal peasant army surged into London with a resolute mission in mind. Their goal was the outright downfall of powerful figures like John of Gaunt, Archbishop Simon Sudbury and treasurer Robert Hales, together with other royal council members. The tempestuous mob spared no effort in its rampage, obliterating all symbols of authority in its path. Prisons were ransacked, detainees set free, any locations tied to the legal profession fell victim to the flames, as well as every parchment and book in sight. Amidst the frenzied procession, their prime targets emerged - the opulent Savoy Palace, John of Gaunt’s residence, and the Tower of London itself, the last bastion where King Richard II and his government, Sudbury and Hales included, sought refuge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/70c9c11c-e35d-4a64-9958-f658ce44c1af/Tower+of+London+Blog+%281%29.jpg Blog - The Tower of London (Part 1) - The Fortress - As Richard engaged with the rebels at Mile End, the Tower faced a reckoning. Part of the rebel force, about 400 strong, entered the gates unopposed, their path clear in anticipation of the king’s return. Guards, perhaps paralyzed by the sight of the furious throng, did not resist. Upon gaining entrance, the hunt commenced, the horde unrelenting in the quest for their intended prey. Sudbury, attempting to seek refuge within St John’s Chapel, was met only with brutality, all hopes his attackers would respect the sanctuary of this holy place gone. Together with Hales, William Appleton, John of Gaunt’s physician, and John Legge, a royal sergeant, they were dragged to meet their grim fate - beheading upon Tower Hill. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/a-sipping-history-beverages-throughout-the-medieval-era monthly 0.5 2025-09-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1691832715467-9ZXVRBZV7IXRCE6J62BD/Medieval+Beverages+Blog+dreamstime_m_171219404.jpg Blog - A Sipping History - Beverages throughout the Medieval Era - When we think of Medieval society, the images in our mind are of kings, knights, battlefields, and castles with magnificent halls for feasting. While food played an important role in the daily lives of people during this era, beverages were equally important. In fact, medieval beverages were more than just liquid refreshments, they were integral parts of daily life, culture, celebrations and medicine. Each sip carried with it a glimpse into society’s values and traditions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f54d9bb1-3cae-4a3c-84cd-e8b09cbb77b4/Medieval+Beverages+Blog+dreamstime_m_89709897.jpg Blog - A Sipping History - Beverages throughout the Medieval Era - Ale - A Staple of Medieval Life The production and consumption of ale in medieval Europe was so widespread that it was considered a staple of daily life for all classes. It was common with peasants as it was the easiest and cheapest to produce, and the ingredients were plentiful as it was brewed from grain (mostly barley and oats), water and fermented with yeast. It differs slightly from beer because it does not contain hops as an ingredient. While not quite as old as wine, ale has a long history dating back to 4,000 BC, when it was known as “kui”, and formed a vital part of ancient Sumerian culture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/240a65c9-d947-4322-b0f4-240e5ffbbc48/Medieval+Beverages+Blog+dreamstime_m_136695321.jpg Blog - A Sipping History - Beverages throughout the Medieval Era - Mead - Nectar of the Gods Mead holds a unique place in medieval culture, where it has long been a treasured drink. Made by brewing honey, water and fermenting it with yeast, due to the abundance of bees required for candle wax, honey was plentiful, therefore making mead a common beverage. To give a rich and complex taste profile, it would be brewed with spices, grain mash or fruits. As in modern times, the resulting flavour would differ depending on where the honey was sourced. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7276b343-3512-4455-87ba-0c653b897134/IMG_E1993.JPG Blog - A Sipping History - Beverages throughout the Medieval Era - Wine - A Beverage of Excellence During the Middle Ages, wine was a symbol of status and elegance, a beverage that not only delighted the senses but also provided a healthier choice. The quality of medieval wine depended upon varying factors, the number of pressings, the selection of grapes and the vintage. From the initial pressings flowed a drink fit for the finest palates of the realm, a potion exclusively reserved for the greatest feasting halls, where the elite of society could revel in its allure. However, as the pressings continued, the quality decreased and these subsequent elixirs made their way into the goblets of the common folk. The difference between the wine of the upper crust and the commoner’s cup was not merely by chance, but a result of the intricacies involved in the wine-making process. Crafting the wine of the elite demanded not only lavish resources in the form of expensive equipment and storage, but also the specialised knowledge required by the winemaker. Shortage of wine also played a part in the lack of its availability, this was primarily because of the problem of wine preservation, casting a shadow over the entire process. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/25af4217-9a8b-4a60-8525-945acf44fe58/Medieval+Beverages+Blog+dreamstime_m_3411641.jpg Blog - A Sipping History - Beverages throughout the Medieval Era - Ciders/Fruit Drinks Beyond the familiar medieval delights, a diverse array of fruit juices graced the tables, quenching the thirst of all levels of society. With each changing season, spectacular fruits were in abundance, giving forth a veritable treasure trove of flavours. These delicious juices, which were often enjoyed as non-alcoholic refreshments, were also not averse to a touch of magic, this lay in the fermentation of the fruit. This method rendered apples into the golden nectar of cider, and pears became a splendid concoction known as perry. Meanwhile blackberries and mulberries were transformed into a delicious brew called murry, and plums, with their own delicate flavour became prunelle. Each taste took you on a journey through orchards and bramble bushes, a testimony to nature’s bounty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9845533a-b324-4aa8-89f3-7e52268e4a87/IMG_E1988.JPG Blog - A Sipping History - Beverages throughout the Medieval Era - A Visit to a Medieval Winery While we are immersed in the vibrant tapestry of medieval beverages, I invite you to come with me to Chateau Nodot - a winery that speaks of 11 generations of dedication to the winemaking process. Situated in the heart of the Bordeaux wine region it stands as a testament to the merging of nature and innovation. Yet this winery is not just a mere producer of wines; it is a sanctuary of biodynamics - more than a simple method of growing wines, it is a philosophy of not exploiting, but cultivating the vines in perfect harmony with nature. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/the-role-of-the-mistress-in-medieval-society monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734339109143-EFRSC255LB43OZR25KKF/Role+of+the+Mistress+Blog+dreamstime_m_266826992.jpg Blog - The Role of the Mistress in Medieval Society - Medieval society was a complex web of power, politics, and dynastic ambitions, and at the centre of it all was the royal court, comprising the monarch who held the reins of authority, as well as the nobles of the realm, and of course their ladies. While queens and noblewomen fulfilled their roles as wives and mothers, there existed a fascinating group of women who wielded significant influence behind the scenes - the mistresses of the most important men in the kingdom, including the king himself. These enigmatic figures played an intriguing role in shaping medieval society, leaving a lasting mark on history as we know it. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/the-scandalous-love-life-of-joan-fair-maid-of-kent monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734339164585-W4CSK1ZNSY405R4GQOJU/Joan_of_Kent%2B%281%29.jpg Blog - The Scandalous Love Life of Joan, Fair Maid of Kent - Let us take a look at Joan, the “Fair Maid of Kent”. While she is celebrated for her captivating beauty and undeniable charm, it’s her tumultuous love life that truly steals the spotlight, a tale of three marriages, each one dripping with controversy and scandal. Maubergeone Tower in Poitiers © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/medieval-saints-or-sinners-conflicting-tales monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734339286927-FQGCKRNXMGSHRW188RJN/Medieval+Saints+%26+Sinners+Blog.jpg Blog - Medieval Saints or Sinners - Conflicting Tales - For those of us who are passionate readers of historical fiction related to the Middle Ages, it can be challenging to reconcile our perceptions of historical figures when different authors, whom we respect greatly, paint them in contrasting lights. A Dream Come True, first walking into Fontevraude Abbey, France © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rochester-castle monthly 0.5 2025-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734339340100-IZHDKD2OQ22RLUQDYQ19/IMG_EE4325.jpg Blog - Rochester Castle - Situated on the east bank of the river Medway, Rochester Castle once guarded the crossing on the major road from London to the coast. The ruins of these impressive stone walls and the towering keep stand as a tangible reminder of its significance to the English crown. Witness to several key conflicts of the medieval period, its formidable defences and strategic location made it a vital stronghold throughout the Plantagenet Era. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/36e57b08-f5c5-4a4c-9eb5-a110fa82a053/IMG_E4300.jpg Blog - Rochester Castle - The city of Rochester was originally a Roman settlement (Durobrivae) situated on the east bank of the river Medway, it was walled from the 3rd century but was largely abandoned by the early 5th century with the end of Roman rule in Britain. At the time of the Norman Conquest a timber and earthworks structure would have stood in the south-west quadrant of the walled city. In the aftermath of the Norman victory at Hastings, the castle was given to Bishop Odo, the King's half brother. In 1088 during the rebellion over the succession to the throne, Rochester saw its first military action when it was besieged by William II. After the garrison surrendered, the King then commissioned Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester to rebuild the defenses in stone, and today we can see remains of that work in the part of the west curtain wall that still survives. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/248b30ca-00c2-444d-8731-27c822f0acfd/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%285%29+IMG_E4294.jpg Blog - Rochester Castle - Now we come to the First Barons War (1215-1217), and what I consider to be one of the most fascinating tales of the Plantagenet era, and also one of the few times when King John really showed some mettle. In October 1215, when baronial forces led by William de Aubigny, captured the castle to block the King’s approach to London, John wasted no time in besieging it. Despite John’s best efforts however, including pounding the castle day and night with five massive stone throwing machines the garrison continued to hold out. He also tried undermining the walls but to no avail, the castle was simply too strong, and even after two months, nothing seemed to penetrate the defenses. We can only imagine John’s frustration, after all, it had not been a good year for him, in June he had been forced to sign the great charter Magna Carta, and now he seemed to be constantly losing ground in this ongoing strife with his Barons, the prospect of them inviting Prince Louis of France to take the throne was becoming a real possibility. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/the-best-ever-travel-hacks monthly 0.5 2025-06-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734339382609-CJI7MQ9IMA84009O3BU4/Travel+Hacks+Blog+0003E.jpg Blog - The Best Travel Hacks And off we go!!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e2674060-3822-49b4-81d8-20df047eedc6/Packing+Blog+23_11_2022.jpg Blog - The Best Travel Hacks - Travel Hacks for Packing Pack your Carry-On wisely If you cannot afford to lose it, DON’T check it in If you only take notice of one of these hacks then this is the most important one to heed. Anything that is irreplaceable, necessary for your health, or vital for you to get from one place to another should NEVER be in your checked luggage. The reality of travel is that bags do go missing and you don’t want to be caught with no medication, cash, travel documents etc. I would also advise that you pack a complete change of clothes in your Carry-On bag as well… just in case!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/32d75874-f764-43ff-9409-003238946622/Travel+Hacks+Blog+0011.jpg Blog - The Best Travel Hacks - Travel Hacks for Flying Master the Art of Jet Lag Jetlag… a travellers nightmare! The biggest enemy of travel and in particular long haul flights is jetlag, according to experts it takes one day to adjust for every time zone you have crossed which does not sit well with us here in Australia as everywhere is so far away, and the older you get the longer that adjustment will take. If family and work commitments allow, it is a good idea to gradually shift in the few days leading up to your departure by moving meal and bedtimes to the schedule of your destination. This is particularly important if you are travelling Eastward as you are losing time and it is harder to adjust. When you board your flight set your watch to your destination time, regardless of what time you depart, sleep when it is sleep time at your destination and wake similarly. The other important thing is to stay hydrated as you will feel the effects of jetlag less, including avoiding caffeine and alcohol, as both promote dehydration. While we are led to believe that caffeine keeps you awake and alcohol helps you sleep, in fact both can actually disturb your sleep. The downside of keeping hydrated is that you will find yourself running to the loo more often, a good way to avoid this is to have in your carry-on luggage, some sort of electrolyte drink that keeps you hydrated, many of your local brands have powder alternatives that you can simply add to your water bottle. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/kenilworth-castle monthly 0.5 2026-03-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/93adebd6-49ee-4573-aa59-e4c9328c3659/IMG_E3411.JPG Blog - Kenilworth Castle - Kenilworth Castle is one of the great historic sites of England, a vast fortress and royal residence whose walls have witnessed some of the most dramatic moments of the medieval age. From King John and Simon de Montfort to John of Gaunt and Henry V, the story of this remarkable place is woven through the lives of powerful figures who shaped the course of English history. Today its towering ruins still dominate the Warwickshire landscape, but in the later Middle Ages Kenilworth was far more than a fortress. It was a royal stronghold, a political stage, and the setting for events that echoed far beyond its massive walls, including the siege that followed the Second Barons’ War and the shifting struggles of power that marked the Wars of the Roses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/805c53af-f8a5-4373-8419-ba4c762c373b/IMG_EE3415.jpg Blog - Kenilworth Castle - Kenilworth’s story begins in the early twelfth century with a man who understood both power and opportunity. Geoffrey de Clinton, Lord Chamberlain and treasurer to King Henry I, built the first great stone tower on this site. Today that keep still stands as the earliest surviving part of the castle, a reminder of the ambitious Norman official who first recognised the strategic importance of this place. What makes Kenilworth even more fascinating is its location. When I first realised that Warwick Castle lies only seven miles away, it immediately raised a question in my mind. Why would two such formidable fortresses stand so close to one another? The answer lies in the political tensions of the time. Geoffrey de Clinton was a rival of Roger de Beaumont, the powerful Earl of Warwick. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/45adbb45-2744-4cf1-a505-58c16559fca4/IMG_3503.JPG Blog - Kenilworth Castle - For several decades Kenilworth remained relatively quiet, but everything began to change during the reign of King John. By the early thirteenth century tensions between the crown and the barons were steadily worsening, and John responded in the way medieval kings often did when authority felt threatened, by strengthening the fortresses that guarded his realm. Kenilworth became one of the great beneficiaries of this programme. Beginning around 1210, John invested heavily in transforming the castle’s defences. Over £1100 was spent constructing a massive outer bailey wall in stone and improving the existing fortifications. The result was a fortress of formidable scale, one that would soon rank among the largest and strongest castles in England. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1683408446703-80ZTMVFYK8AOYOICQY5O/Kenilworth+Blog+IMG_E3427.JPG Blog - Kenilworth Castle - Kenilworth entered the centre of England’s political drama during the reign of Henry III. In 1244 the king granted the castle to his brother-in-law Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester, at a time when relations between the two men were still warm. Simon had married Henry’s younger sister Eleanor, the widow of William Marshal’s son, and for a time the alliance appeared secure. With the benefit of hindsight, however, it is difficult not to wonder how many times Henry later regretted both decisions, placing such a formidable fortress in Simon’s hands and giving him the hand of his sister. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d0ca6cf3-8b49-48b5-afd2-0fca430ad04e/IMG_EE3451.jpg Blog - Kenilworth Castle - In the aftermath of the great siege, Kenilworth entered a new chapter in its history. In 1267 Henry III granted the castle to his son Edmund Crouchback, creating him the first Earl of Lancaster. From that moment the fortress became closely associated with the powerful Lancastrian family, whose influence would shape the castle, and England for that matter, for generations. During the early fourteenth century Edmund’s son, Thomas, the second Earl of Lancaster, transformed the castle once again. Between 1314 and 1317 he constructed a magnificent Great Hall. Even in its ruined state today, walking through that vast space is an extraordinary experience. It is impossible not to pause and imagine the great gatherings that once took place there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/77c7d696-1a17-4f9b-b1b4-754a4849a13a/IMG_3439.JPG Blog - Kenilworth Castle - Kenilworth remained one of the principal estates of the Lancastrian family for the next several decades. In 1351 Edward III elevated the earldom of Lancaster to a duchy, creating Henry of Grosmont the first Duke of Lancaster. When Henry died in 1361, his vast inheritance passed through his daughter Blanche to her husband, John of Gaunt, the king’s third surviving son. Under John of Gaunt, Kenilworth reached the height of its splendour. Between 1372 and 1380 he undertook major building works within the inner bailey, including the construction of an enormous new Great Hall inspired by the design of his father’s hall at Windsor Castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/dae89647-5920-477b-9706-ed21cfad77f1/IMG_E3422.JPG Blog - Kenilworth Castle - Following the Battle of Bosworth in 1485 and the rise of the Tudor dynasty, Kenilworth once again found itself firmly within the orbit of royal power. The vast fortress remained one of the crown’s most impressive residences, and both Henry VII and his son Henry VIII made use of the castle during their reigns. Even after centuries of conflict and political upheaval, Kenilworth continued to stand as one of the great strongholds of the English crown. A new chapter began in 1553 when the castle was granted to John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland. Dudley had become the dominant political figure during the final years of Edward VI’s reign, effectively governing the kingdom as the young king’s regent. During his brief ownership he undertook improvements to the castle, including the construction of the large stables that still survive today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/a1aab9b5-2e0c-4c92-919c-f4009b563c28/Kenilworth_%C2%A9EnglishHeritage.jpg Blog - Kenilworth Castle - Over the following decades Robert Dudley transformed Kenilworth into one of the most magnificent Elizabethan residences in England. Among his most striking additions was a four-storey building within the inner court known as Leicester’s Tower, designed specifically for the Queen’s use. It was first constructed in 1572 and then further improved in preparation for her celebrated visit to Kenilworth in 1575. Dudley spared no expense in ensuring that the queen would be received in surroundings worthy of her status. Beyond the walls of the castle he also created an extraordinary privy garden for Elizabeth, laid out with carefully ordered paths, bowers, arbours and ornamental seating. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/the-juiciest-of-medieval-gossip monthly 0.5 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c8d0d16b-07f1-4197-a2ce-f8cbb548a193/Illustrations+Edmund_Blair_Leighton_-_Abelard_and_his_Pupil_Heloise.jpg Blog - The Juiciest of Medieval Gossip - # 1 - Abelard and Heloise Abelard and Heloise were two of the most famous figures of the 12th century, well at least when it comes to stories of romance, they were well known for their passionate love affair, and as is often the case, its tragic ending. Peter Abelard was a renowned philosopher and theologian, considered to be one of the greatest thinkers of his time. He was a master at the Notre Dame Cathedral School in Paris when he met Heloise, the niece of the powerful canon, Fulbert. I am sure at the time if he had known what would be the final tragic consequences of his scandalous affair with a student, he may have just run the other way… or maybe not! Heloise would go on to give birth to a baby boy named Astrolabe, unfortunately their love affair would be short-lived, when Heloise’s uncle found out about the relationship, they were forced to marry, which neither of them wanted to do in order to protect Abelard's career. They agreed on the condition that it be kept a secret, but her uncle reneged on this promise and publicly proclaimed the marriage. When Heloise tried to deny this she incurred her uncle's wrath and abuse. Fearing for her safety, Abelard sent her to take refuge in the convent at Argenteuil. Fulbert, furious at Heloise leaving, ordered a band of men to break into Abelard's room one night and castrate him. Abelard was filled with shame at his situation, and became a monk in the Abbey of St Denis in Paris, while at Argenteuil, Heloise, tormented by his suffering also took the veil, it is said she cried “Why did I marry you and bring about your fall? Now see me gladly pay.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c0363dad-0103-4090-ad25-f737bb02c2d9/Tour.de.Nesle.png Blog - The Juiciest of Medieval Gossip - # 3 - A Medieval Soap Opera - “The Tour de Nesle Affair” The Tour de Nesle Affair was a shocking scandal that hit the French royal family in 1314, it would have lasting consequences not only for the participants involved but also for the entire House of Capet. The scandal occurred at the Tour de Nesle (an old guard tower in Paris that Phillip had bought in 1308) and involved the three daughters-in-law of Phillip IV being accused and tried of adultery. Phillip’s three sons had all married into the house of Burgundy, Louis to Margaret, daughter of Robert II, Duke of Burgundy, and Phillip and Charles to her cousins Joan and Blanche, both daughters of Otto IV, Count of Burgundy. I actually find this fact very interesting, at a time when marriages of state were made for political gain and alliances, it seems rather odd that Phillip IV married all three of his sons into the house of Burgundy, rather than negotiate marriages further afield, I am sure there would have been no shortage of princesses throughout Europe who would have made suitable future consorts. It seems however that the three brothers marital relationships, although all with Burgundian noblewomen, were each of them very different. Louis, nicknamed ‘the quarrelsome’, was not very inclined to spend much time with his beautiful wife, and the marriage was not thought to be a very happy one. Phillip on the other hand seemed to be totally besotted with his wife Joan and is reported to have written many love letters to her, many of which still remain. Charles was considered to be a relatively serious and strait-laced personality, and it seems that his marriage followed along these lines, very conservative and proper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/398f51a0-6025-4bc8-b5af-811f40cb0780/Sacre_de_Philippe_Auguste.jpg Blog - The Juiciest of Medieval Gossip - # 5 - Marriage of Phillip II of France and Ingeborg of Denmark In 1193 the marriage of Phillip II, King of France to Ingeborg, sister of King Canute VI of Denmark, seemed to be a wise choice in order to provide more sons for France, as his only son Louis from his first wife Isabella of Hainault was rather frail and sickly. It was however the day after the wedding that Phillip caused a stir that would strain the relationship between church and state for many years to come. Before Ingeborg even had the opportunity to be crowned Phillip dismissed his wife, it is unclear exactly why he would behave in this strange manner but his allegations seemed to imply that she cast evil spells which rendered him unable to consummate the marriage. Phillip sought a divorce providing oaths sworn by senior clergy members as to the close degrees of affinity between Ingeborg and Phillips first wife Isabella as they were supposedly related in the fourth degree. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/an-enduring-love-john-of-gaunt-katherine-swynford monthly 0.5 2025-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/500e25d9-521f-49d9-a5d1-3868e486db73/Kenilworth+Castle+13.jpg Blog - An Enduring Love - John of Gaunt & Katherine Swynford - One of the most famous and widely spoken love stories of the Middle Ages, that of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and Katherine Swynford, would even today, after over 500 years, have its descendants sitting on the throne of England. Lincoln Cathedral, where the marriage took place of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and his beloved Katherine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/deb8fa41-855a-490f-9e05-57dbbe2b120d/Johnofgaunt.jpg Blog - An Enduring Love - John of Gaunt & Katherine Swynford - Young girls would often take on the role of ladies-in-waiting to the nobility, in Katherine’s case it was in the service of Blanche of Lancaster, wife to John of Gaunt, third son of King Edward III. Even as early as this it was clear that ties were developing between Katherine and the house of Lancaster, for in 1362 she married Hugh Swynford of Coleby and Kettlethorpe, a Lincolnshire knight serving with John of Gaunt. They had possibly three children together, the first a daughter Blanche, born in 1367 and named after the Duchess, had John of Gaunt named as her Godfather. Katherine served the Duchess of Lancaster loyally until her death on the 12th September, 1368, even to the point of sending for a priest to absolve her mistress prior to her death. The Duchess, who was only in her early 20’s at the time, most likely died after contracting the Black Plague which was rampant in England during that period, although some sources point to her dying in childbirth. Regardless of how she died, at this point there can be no doubt at all of the love John of Gaunt felt for his wife, he was devastated and mourned her greatly, this is made obvious by the fact that he held annual commemorations on the anniversary of her death for the rest of his life, as well as choosing to be buried beside her in St Paul's Cathedral, London. Rather than leaving the household and taking up a post with another lady of the nobility, Katherine instead was appointed by John as Governess to the two Lancaster daughters Phillipa and Elizabeth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/71e73969-bd2e-4273-a3f3-0995868b0b3e/IMG_4184.JPG Blog - An Enduring Love - John of Gaunt & Katherine Swynford - John and Katherine would live openly together for several years, there were several reports of this scandalous behaviour by the Duke and his “witch and whore”, however John was the wealthiest magnate in the country aside from the King, which meant he could pretty much do as he pleased. On King Edward III’s death in 1377, John’s nephew Richard would become Richard II as his father Edward the Black Prince had tragically died a year earlier. John would serve Richard loyally, however in 1381, because of his wealth and power, as well as the fact that he was one of the Kings chief counsellors (those responsible for the Pole Tax that angered the common people), he became the primary target of the growing Peasants Revolt. On the 13th June,1381 his beautiful Savoy Palace was burnt to the ground by the mob, even though he was not even in London at this time, but rather on his way to Scotland for a campaign. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9011ca97-dcf2-44c2-8ca7-005abbf3c9df/Lincoln+Cathedral+IMG_E4199.JPG Blog - An Enduring Love - John of Gaunt & Katherine Swynford - Katherine then moved to her late husband’s manor of Kettlethorpe, away from the court. It does seem that John still looked out for her, visiting her regularly and even keeping a stable of horses for her use. She seems to have been content to remain on friendly terms with all of his family, on occasion receiving gifts from them, in some household records, there are entries of casks of wine being given to her from John. It is also known that he provided oak trees for the renovation of Katherine’s estates. It is believed that he borrowed money from her in 1386 for his Castillian campaign, from this we can determine that despite their separation, the relationship remained completely amicable during that time. In 1394, the death of Constance of Castille once again changed the situation for the pair, this time for the better, finally on the 13th January, 1396, almost a quarter of a century after their affair had begun, Katherine and John were married in Lincoln Cathedral. Subsequently, a papal bull was granted in September, followed in February 1397 by King Richard II issuing a Royal Patent, both of which officially recognised the union and legitimised the children born of this unconventional love. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rocamadour-part-6-black-madonna-our-lady-of-rocamadour monthly 0.5 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ef5c9f57-a635-4f0b-b36c-6ee901910a0d/Black+Madonna.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 6)- The Black Madonna - At the heart of the Sanctuary, under the rock, at the feet of Our Lady. Shrine of the Black Madonna https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d1483886-d2e3-41e5-bb1e-dca933d2b435/Rocamadour+Black+Madonna+2.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 6)- The Black Madonna - Our Lady is a 66cm tall blackened walnut statue who is seated with the Christ child on her lap. Why the statue is black has generated many discussions but the most common idea is that her colouring is due simply to age and years of being exposed to soot and candle smoke. She does, after all, date back to the 12th-century, I personally think she looks pretty good for a lady who is over 900 years old. In saying that, she may not be the prettiest of statues, but she is one of the most powerful, famous and ancient ones, and the miracles attributed to her are numerous. Maybe she is a reminder for us to not judge with worldly eyes, and to not reject something simply because it is not an object of beauty. The other thing about Our Lady, and it is the same for other Black Madonna statues throughout Europe, because there are many, she has the Christ child on her lap but notice how she does not hold onto him. This is symbolic of the fact that she willingly let him go, to be part of God’s plan for him to be crucified to save all of our souls for eternity. It was during the Middle Ages that the site became one of the four holy places of Christendom, along with Jerusalem, Rome and Santiago de Compostela. This was largely due to The Book of Miracles, written in 1172 by a resident monk, clearly describing the 126 miracles that occurred in this spot through the intercession of the Holy Virgin, and many more have been recounted since then. This book had a profound impact on the number of pilgrims that began to make the long and arduous journey to pray at the feet of the Black Madonna. Many saints, kings and queens, together with thousands of ordinary souls have come seeking the blessings of the Queen of Heaven. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rocamadour-part-5-the-stations-of-the-cross monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1b159c31-7b7f-4eb1-ab04-a8fbeb35b306/Rocamadour+DSCN0386+Landscape.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 5)- The Stations of the Cross - Also called the Way of the Cross, The Stations of the Cross originated in the Middle Ages as a series of pictures or sculptures portraying scenes from the Passion of the Christ. Stations of the Cross, Rocamadour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/374773d1-cf33-49ef-b057-7a20254d13c2/Rocamadour+DSCN0407E.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 5)- The Stations of the Cross - NOTE: I have taken photos of the plaques at the foot of each shrine and then translated so please forgive me if they sometimes sound a bit odd. Station 1 - Jesus is condemned to death Pilate replied, “What has he done wrong?” But they cried louder, “Crucify him!” (Mark 15:14) Jesus is 33 years old, he has done nothing wrong but he is condemned to death. The soldiers hit him, spit in his face and laugh at him. They put a crown of thorns on head. Jesus is silent, does not complain. His love for us is so great that, as long as we are on earth, we will never be able to fully understand him. Station 2 - Jesus is made to bear his cross “And he himself, carrying his cross, went out in the direction of the place called The Skull (Calvary) which in Hebrew is called Golgotha.” (John 19:17) The soldiers order Jesus to carry his cross. They load her on his bruised shoulders. She is heavy. He suffers. Adam and Eve, by eating the fruit from the tree, disobeyed God. The tree has become a tree of death: sin, suffering and death have appeared on earth. Jesus, obeying in everything, wants to be nailed to the cross. The Cross becomes a tree of life. Station 3 - Jesus falls the first time “Behold the Lamb of God, behold the bearer of the sins of the world.” (John 1:29) Jesus is really God but like us, he is really a man. Like us, he knows fatigue, exhaustion. The cross weighs so heavily on his bruised shoulders that he falls, yet Jesus gets up. He resumes his ascent towards Calvary. Jesus takes upon himself our faults so that we may be freed from them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1b806b92-8d6e-43a9-bf58-e36017bf5db5/Rocamadour+DSCN0396E.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 5)- The Stations of the Cross Station 5 - Simon the Cyrene helps Jesus carry his cross "Whoever wants to be my disciple, let him take up his cross and follow me" (Matthew 16:24) The soldiers see that Jesus is exhausted. He is so weak that he risks dying before being crucified. They then requisition a man returning from the fields. Simon of Cyrene did not choose to carry the cross of Jesus but he is generous. His faith grew little by little as he carried the cross. It is this cross that makes him a disciple. Station 6 - Veronica wipes the face of Jesus "God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:27) "God predestined us to reproduce the image of his son" (Romans 8:29) A woman, Véronique, braves the soldiers. She comes out of the crowd and wipes Jesus' face with her veil. The image of Jesus' face remains imprinted on the veil. Véronique represents for us the model of the sensitive and gentle person, capable of sympathizing with all human suffering, seeking to soothe any wound; the one who recognizes the face of Jesus in the other. But also, the model of the Christian who has, since baptism, the image of Jesus imprinted in his soul. Station 7 - Jesus falls the second time (image left) "He himself bore our sins, in his body, on wood, so that, subject to our sins, we might live for justice. By his touch, we are healed." (1 Peter 2:24) The cross that Jesus carries on his shoulders is very heavy but our faults are even more serious. However, Jesus gets up. The trials of life make us fall and fall again. To be truly courageous, put our trust in Jesus, he will lift us up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/afde1871-96d2-4174-9c27-61269cc515b1/Rocamadour+DSCN0382E.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 5)- The Stations of the Cross Station 9 - Jesus falls the third time “I exalt you Lord, for you have raised me up” (Psalm 30:1) Jesus is exhausted. His fatigue is immense. The loneliness of his heart is total. He falls for the third time. However, he gets up, he wants to accomplish the will of God, his Father, until the end: by mohr, only to save us. Station 10 - Jesus is stripped of his garments "Then the soldiers took the dirty clothes, user rent at parts, one for each soldier and the tunic". (John 19:23) Arriving at Calvary, the soldiers tear off Jesus' clothes. They share them; his seamless tunic is drawn. Jesus endures humiliations. With Jesus in our heart, we endure everything. Station 11 - Jesus is nailed to the cross "Father forgive them, they do not know what they are doing". (Luke 23:34) The soldiers laid Jesus on the cross; they drive nails into his hands and feet. His head still bears the crown of thorns. His suffering is immense; but he knows that he thus saves all men from sin and death. He does not revolt, on the contrary, he forgives his executioners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1e97aeda-4bc7-4015-9451-67aab22f894a/Rocamadour+DSCN0379.JPG Blog - Rocamadour (Part 5)- The Stations of the Cross - Station 13 - Jesus is taken down from the cross "With Pilate’s permission, Joseph of Arimathea came and took the body away." (John 19:38) Station 14 - Jesus is placed in the tomb (sépulchre) "At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, they laid Jesus there." (John 19:41-42)Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d597795f-95ba-4052-9278-a5dee581ac39/Rocamadour+IMG_E2186.JPG Blog - Rocamadour (Part 5)- The Stations of the Cross - The final Station of the Cross (image above) is within a cave that was once part of a quarry. Its name is Grotte du Sépulchre, and today it has large stone pillars supporting the structure, deep inside you will find a statue of Jesus being placed in his tomb. The end of the ascent is marked by the Cross of Jerusalem sitting at the top of the hill with incredible views of Rocamadour and the valley beyond. Local folklore has it that the cross was brought all the way from Palestine by pilgrims. I guess legends play a huge part in the framework associated with the stories of many historical sites, and Rocamadour is bound to be no different. As you have seen from my earlier blog posts there are numerous myths about many aspects of this incredible location, which is not so surprising for a site that has such spiritual significance. Unfortunately at the time I visited Rocamadour, I had no idea about the Stations of the Cross and we decided it was going to be easier to park at the top and go down rather than the other way around, in effect this meant that I did the stations in reverse. It did not however, in any way take away from the awe I felt when I paused at each of the stations, it was still a very moving and thought-provoking experience for me. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rocamadour-part-4-the-legend-of-durandal monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9c4fc518-0355-4f86-bc9e-82b7a55dc99e/IMG_E2916.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 4)- The Legend of Durandal - The legend of the sword Durandal has captured the imagination of many for centuries, given to the famed knight Roland by Charlemagne, king of the Franks, it was said to be both powerful and mystical. Cliff face at Rocamadour where Durandal is embedded in the stone https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0706ae3d-a850-4a48-85c8-25b9f464f0b0/Grandes_chroniques_Roland.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 4)- The Legend of Durandal - Roland was a Frankish military leader under king Charlemagne, who was killed at the Battle of Roncevaux in 778, the tale of this battle is told in the epic poem ‘The Song of Roland’. It recounts the story of how Roland and his knights fought valiantly against an army of Saracens who had ambushed them high in the mountains of the Pyrenees, on their return journey from a campaign in Spain. Already we are seeing what we would now call ‘poetic licence’, it seems that the army they fought against was an army of Basques, rather than Saracens, either way, the entire rearguard of the army lost their lives on that fateful day. At this point in the story we hear of Durandal, a sword so powerful it could easily cut through iron and stone. The poem states that despite being vastly outnumbered Roland and his companions refused to surrender and fought to the death, in the process Durandal was used to slay hundreds of the enemy. It is also said that when Roland cut a huge gash in the rocks with one blow it created Roland’s Breach in the Pyrenees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9b0abf73-d6b3-4689-84d9-e4d9b9d53fb3/IMG_E2887.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 4)- The Legend of Durandal - Many countries have mentioned him in various myths and tales, all of which, although they differ slightly are consistent in the fact that the superior quality of the weapons he forged was undeniable. In England in Oxfordshire there is a Neolithic long barrow mound named Waylands Smithy, it is said that if you leave a horse or a broken weapon there overnight with a sixpenny piece, you will return in the morning to find the horse shod or the weapon repaired. In the front panel of the 8th-century Franks Casket, which is on display at the British Museum, incongruously paired with the Christian story of the three Magi, Wayland stands at the extreme left in the forge where he is held as a slave by King Nidud,. Below the forge is the headless body of Nidud's son, whom Wayland has killed, making a goblet from his skull; his head is probably the object held in the tongs in Wayland's hand. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/8784644c-2727-4a44-ac7a-f926c87bda0e/Rocamadour+DSCN0415.JPG Blog - Rocamadour (Part 4)- The Legend of Durandal - We now come to the part of the legend that involves Rocamadour, Roland was said to have attempted to destroy the sword to prevent it falling into the enemy’s hands. However, even by brutally attacking blocks of marble, the sword remained intact and obviously indestructible. After being mortally wounded, Roland then hid the sword underneath his body before succumbing to his injury. It was then that an angel threw the sword into the air, where it embedded itself in the cliff face at Rocamadour, and here it has remained for centuries, so firm in its position that no-one could remove it. Another story, originating in Rocamadour states the true Durandal was actually deposited in one of the many chapels that surround the parvis (courtyard), but was stolen by Henry the Young King in 1183. As Plantagenet fans would know, after the sacking of Rocamadour Henry would incur the wrath of God, leading to the tragic death of the Young King . A version claimed by the 12th-century monks at Rocamadour, says that Roland actually threw the sword himself when he knew he was dying, rather than it being hurled by an angel. Regardless of which, if any, of these tales you believe, those of us with a passion for this era love the stories of knights in shining armour, and a wonderful, mystical and all powerful sword fits perfectly into the tale. The sword still draws thousands of tourists every year, if you visit Rocamadour you will have no trouble finding where the sword is embedded in the cliff face, just look for where all of the tourists are pointing. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rocamadour-part2-the-divine-sanctuaries monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e741d4c1-26f2-41c6-8d1e-d960477b175e/IMGBLOG_2163.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 2) - The Divine Sanctuaries - Made up of a series of religious buildings built around a central courtyard (parvis) are the Divine Sanctuaries. The View of the Sanctuaries from the ruins of the medieval hospital https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9f9f4dc0-2b81-4b23-a13a-696385b50e04/Rocamadour+IMG_E2911.JPG Blog - Rocamadour (Part 2) - The Divine Sanctuaries - Initially a funeral chapel, Chapelle Saint-Jean-Baptiste was transformed into a baptistry in the 19th century. The chapel itself is octagonal in shape reminding us of the incarnation and resurrection of Christ. It includes portraits of some of the great pilgrims that have visited, and still houses the tomb of Jean de Vallon, knight of the order of Saint Jean of Jerusalem. Basilique Saint-Sauveur, Rocamadour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fe312f42-0717-42b8-8f17-230c8bfedc30/Rocamadour+IMGBLOG_2908.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 2) - The Divine Sanctuaries - The Courtyard (parvis) lies at the centre of the shrine, simply because it leads to all of the sanctuaries and consists of two levels. The lower part which is accessed through the Saint Martial Gate and the Great Staircase, and the upper part which gives access to Chapelle Notre-Dame, as well as Chapelle Saint-Michel and Basilique Saint Sauveur. On the upper part is a most important site, the empty tomb where the intact and uncorrupted body of Saint Amadour was found in 1166, if you look down you will see all the coins thrown by visitors to the shrine. The sanctuaries are not just important religious sites and a vital part of France’s cultural heritage that have been carefully preserved over the centuries, but also marvels of medieval architecture. Whether you are a religious pilgrim, a history buff, or a fan of medieval architecture, these incredible structures will have you totally enthralled. Keep an eye out for the next installment of my Rocamadour blog The Pilgrims of Rocamadour (Part 3) https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rocamadour-part-3-the-pilgrims-of-rocamadour monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/869a8413-ef47-4603-8d08-b7d14f5a7c9a/Rocamadour+IMG_E2161.JPG Blog - Rocamadour (Part 3)- The pilgrims, who were they, and why undertake such a holy journey? - The Middle Ages was definitely the golden age of pilgrimages, and there is no shortage of information on the numerous sacred sites that appealed to the pious and devoted. Ruins of the medieval hospital with the 13th-century Chapelle de l’Hospitalet in the background https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/3062f983-ca19-411b-947b-06fa794e94c0/Teniers%2C_David_the_younger_-_Female_Pilgrim_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg Blog - Rocamadour (Part 3)- The pilgrims, who were they, and why undertake such a holy journey? - Decades later in 1244 their granddaughter Blanche of Castille, together with her son King Louis IX made the arduous journey to pray for the health and happiness of war-torn France. Many pilgrims made the journey simply for religious enlightenment, their motives were purely devotional, they saw shrines as special places where they could establish a closer connection with the divine. Often men and women would seek spiritual awareness as a response to bereavement or a major life crisis. Sometimes the dearly departed would make a request in their will that a particular pilgrimage would be made at the expense of the estate, for the benefit of their soul. This often happened if they had been unable to undertake that pilgrimage themselves in their lifetime, maybe due to illness, it would then be made by friends or relatives of the dying person. Stained Glass window depicting pilgrims with ampules of holy water https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rocamadour-part-1-pilgrimage-site-of-royalty monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/de2c88d2-50bd-416f-8edd-2ae251203177/IMG_E2159.JPG Blog - Rocamadour (Part 1)- Pilgrimage site of Royalty - Gaze in wonder at the stunning cliffside Medieval village of Rocamadour, a pilgrimage site of Saints and Royalty for almost 900 years, being part of the St James’ Way to Santiago de Compostela. Cliffside Medieval village of Rocamadour https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/john-fitzgilbert-marshal-of-the-horses monthly 0.5 2025-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/78acaf94-22ba-4a43-9d3f-9c2c21491e8c/Ludgershall-2822.jpg Blog - John FitzGilbert, Marshal of the Horses - Is this a case of misjudgment in the pages of history, based on one well-quoted phrase? Cast of the effigy of William Marshall, 1st Earl of Pembroke and son of John Fitzgilbert https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/86ff5190-7e77-4a25-b95a-dd28240596e6/Empress_Matilda.png Blog - John FitzGilbert, Marshal of the Horses - When Henry died in 1135, there ensued a period of civil war which has come to be known as The Anarchy. Henry had forced his barons to take an oath of allegiance to support his only legitimate offspring, his daughter Matilda (known as the Empress). Unfortunately at that time, the thought of a woman taking the throne was unheard of, so when Matilda’s cousin Stephen of Blois swiftly took control of both the throne and the treasury he had a lot of support from the nobility. John continued to serve Stephen in the same way he had served Henry, after all the position of Marshall meant serving the king regardless of who it happened to be at the time. He was rewarded with the castles of Marlborough and Ludgershall, and as castellan, he swiftly proceeded to strengthen both of these, with it becoming obvious that the battle ahead was going to be long and brutal. In the early years of the conflict he supposedly used his position to raid the lands of those who opposed Stephen but some chronicles of the time state he was not too particular about who he attacked. Was he just being brutal and violent and taking advantage of everybody for his own personal gain, or was he even then watching both sides and trying to determine if and when the tides would turn? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/0ab11d2d-6c5a-4a49-970e-658b77bc2730/IMG_4468.JPG Blog - John FitzGilbert, Marshal of the Horses - Now we come to the last and most condemning incident, that of the siege of Newbury Castle in 1153. In order to gain time, John handed his 5-year-old son William over to King Stephen as surety for his good faith, while he supposedly sent word to the Empress requesting permission to hand over the castle. Instead, he used the time to send for supplies to reinforce the castle. As John had broken faith with the king, Stephen threatened to hang William or as some records say, catapult him over the walls. It was then that John uttered those well-recognised words, “Hang him, I still have the hammers and the anvils with which to forge still more and better sons”. Stephen did eventually relent and send the boy home, his nature would not condone the harming of an innocent child. I guess there are a couple of different ways to look at this episode, one being of course the fact that John handed over William in the first place. If we look at this period in time, it was common practice among the nobility to provide hostages as a guarantee of commitment, and it was often the reigning monarch demanding said hostages. 5 year-old William, would grow to manhood and himself in turn provide his own son (also named William) as a hostage to King John as surety for his loyalty. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/albigensian-crusade monthly 0.5 2026-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/20e759cd-9310-4fd3-b09d-44f4b4b290ec/Carcassonne+IMG_E2006.JPG Blog - The Albigensian Crusade - There are some histories that demand more than a straightforward telling. The Albigensian Crusade is one of them. The magnificent walled city of Carcassonne https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b2fd9e5f-5f6c-4381-85e2-231368b7e4b0/raymond-roger-trencavel-beziers-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - The Albigensian Crusade - The First Fracture The Albigensian Crusade began in the summer of 1209, and it did so with devastating speed. In July of that year, crusading forces reached the town of Béziers. What followed was not a targeted action against a defined group, but a massacre that engulfed the entire population. Cathars and Catholics alike were killed, with little attempt made to distinguish between them. It was here that the brutal logic of the crusade revealed itself most clearly. According to contemporary accounts, when asked how the crusaders might identify the heretics within the city, the papal legate Arnaud Amaury is said to have replied, “Kill them all, God will recognise his own.” Whether or not those words were spoken exactly as recorded, the sentiment they convey is unmistakable. Béziers was not treated as a community to be corrected, but as a warning to be erased. For the people of southern France, this moment marked a profound rupture. It became clear that belief, allegiance, or innocence offered no protection. Entire towns could be destroyed, not for what they had done, but for what they represented. This was no longer a campaign against a doctrine. What followed was not a series of isolated sieges, but a slow unravelling of everyday life across southern France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/8c6509bc-786e-44ae-b1f4-c8a0d802e39e/Albigensian+Crusade+Blog+Cathars+expelled+from+Carcassonne.jpg Blog - The Albigensian Crusade - Living with Uncertainty Cathars being expelled after the fall of Carcassonne https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9dba5198-565a-4763-bcd9-b1076f6db6c6/montsegur-cathars-history-plantagenet-discoveries.jpg Blog - The Albigensian Crusade - The Last Stronghold By the early 1240s, Montségur had become more than a fortress. Perched high on a rocky spur, isolated and seemingly impregnable, it stood as both a refuge and a symbol. For those who still held to Cathar belief, it represented safety, continuity, and the hope that endurance itself might be enough. The siege of Montségur began in May 1243. It was not swift. Months passed as the defenders held out against increasingly determined forces. It was only through strategy and deception that the crusaders eventually gained control of the barbican, breaking the fortress’s defences from within. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/8-medieval-christmas-traditions monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/34a0fa2c-cff7-4de6-be67-2086991b884a/XRF_12days.jpg Blog - 8 Medieval Christmas Traditions - # 1 - 12 Days of Christmas The 12 days of Christmas actually signify the period that marks the 12 days between the birth of Christ and the coming of the Magi, the three wise men. It runs right through from Christmas Day to January 6 (Epiphany, sometimes called Three Kings Day). Over time Christmas has become for most of us, one day of celebration, whereas in past centuries it was actually a church mini-season with even peasants having time off to take part in the merriment. Within the 12 days were 7 Holy days, all warranting celebration and feasting, it really was a very special time of the year. The thing that most people today think of when they hear 12 days of Christmas is the Christmas Carol where the singer is bragging about all the cool things they received on each of the 12 days from their ‘true love’. What I found most fascinating is that since 1984 the PNC Bank has maintained a Christmas Price Index and the True Cost of Christmas, I have no idea why but there it is. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c476d84d-a558-4274-81d7-9bb0a1d221cc/Giotto_-_Legend_of_St_Francis_-_-13-_-_Institution_of_the_Crib_at_Greccio.jpg Blog - 8 Medieval Christmas Traditions - # 2 - Presepi or Nativity Scene Probably one of the most recognisable of the Christmas symbols is the Nativity Scene, that well-known image of the baby Jesus in his crib in the manger with Mary and Joseph, surrounded by animals and the three wise men. Do we know however what the origins of that scene are? We do know that within the gospels of Matthew and Luke, there are details of Christ’s birth including that he was born in Bethlehem and that the shepherds found him lying in a manger, but the gospels do not mention any animals. The nativity scene as we know has been credited to St Francis of Assisi, who created a replica of the scene in a cave in the small town of Greccio in Italy in 1223. His reason was to help children understand the true meaning of Christmas, he accomplished this by using real people and animals, which possibly was also the birth of the traditional Christmas pageants that we still see happening every year in celebration. At a time when the true meaning of Christmas can be totally lost in a whirlwind of presents and gift-giving, St Francis felt the need to remind people of the true spirit of Christmas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b311e7e4-b6b0-47a4-854f-502b0fb6aed8/Schnorr_von_Carolsfeld_Bibel_in_Bildern_1860_169.png Blog - 8 Medieval Christmas Traditions - # 4 - Gift giving Although most of us believe that the Christmas tradition of gift-giving began with the three wise men who gave gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus, it actually has its roots in pagan customs. The pagan Saturnalia festival where people would give generous gifts in thanks to the God of Agriculture Saturn was eventually replaced by the early Christmas traditions. Throughout the Middle Ages however, it was in fact a way to exploit the poor. Kings and Queens would require tributes from their subjects on Christmas, and it soon spread to lower-ranking noblemen who began requesting their own gifts. These peasants would give what they could but receive nothing in return from their overlords. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d6597665-8344-42e1-80d4-068e825f802f/Illustrations+Christmas+Carol+Singing.JPG Blog - 8 Medieval Christmas Traditions - # 6 - Christmas Carols (Wassailling) The word carol actually means dance or song of praise and joy! Christmas Carols have been sung for thousands of years but they were not called Christmas Carols, they were pre-Christian/Pagan songs that were sung at the Winter Solstice celebrations as people danced around the stone circles. When Christmas began to be celebrated at the same time as the Winter Solstice then the songs included the story of Christ’s birth. They were in the beginning sung in churches and therefore in Latin, which most people did not understand so by the Middle Ages the interest in them was waning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d6226297-3010-44ea-9cca-5a861b5d42ce/Illustrations+Christmas+Feast.JPG Blog - 8 Medieval Christmas Traditions - # 7 - Christmas Feast I think no matter where in the world you come from, one of the biggest parts of our Christmas festivities is the food, and really, out of all of the Christmas traditions, this is probably the one that has remained the same no matter how far we look back. During Neolithic times people gathered for mid-winter feasts, going by archaeological excavations carried out in Southern England it seems that the primary meats eaten were pork and beef… this hasn’t changed much at all. The Romans honoured the god Saturn in their mid-winter feast and it lasted for up to seven days. It was also a chance for the slaves to be treated in similar fashion to their masters, enjoying the rewards of fresh meat, exotic fruits, and treats. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/maxsfavouritechurchesandabbeysfrance monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/93c7c397-5cf6-4267-a00e-16e3f0ef8bf6/Mont+Saint-Michel+IMG_E1659.jpg Blog - Max’s Favourite Churches and Abbeys in France - # 5 - Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel The construction of the Abbey over a period of 1300 years on a tidal island that was by no means hospitable, is a real testament to the perseverance and technical talent of several generations of builders. Not only has it been a major place of Christian pilgrimage in the west, but also a centre of medieval culture. It has often been given the nickname “City of Books” owing to the fact that it was here where a large number of manuscripts were produced and stored. The incredible history of this site began in 708 and continued right through to the 19th century when restorations were still being done, this certainly explains the diversity of architectural styles you will see. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/92a3c613-4b2b-44c8-9a20-f68e656b82e2/IMG_E1739.JPG Blog - Max’s Favourite Churches and Abbeys in France - # 4 - L’Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud Founded in the very early 12th century by Robert D’Arbrissel, this unique site is a must-see for anybody visiting the Loire Valley. The burial place of royalty, notably Eleanor of Aquitaine and her husband Henry II, it is one of the largest surviving monastic complexes from the Middle Ages. At a time when religious sites housed either men or women, Fontevraud was a place of shelter for both men and women in four different priories: Sainte-Marie for the ‘contemplatives’, Sainte-Marie-Madeleine for the lay sisters, Saint-Jean de l’Habit for the monks, and Saint-Lazare for the nuns who cared for lepers. During the French Revolution, all the monks and nuns departed and it was transformed into one of the harshest prisons in France, remaining that way until 1963. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/66711f06-b571-4d83-992c-07bce8d8ff2c/Mont+Saint-Michel+IMG_E1624.jpg Blog - Max’s Favourite Churches and Abbeys in France - # 3 - Eglise Paroissiale Saint-Pierre Whilst wandering the cobblestone streets and alleys of Mont Saint-Michel it is difficult not to focus on the magnificent Abbey at the summit, be careful though, by doing that you may a real hidden gem. Part way up the Grande Rue is an unassuming arch that blends in with the stonework all around, go through the arch, up a few steps in an alley, and there you will find the beautiful Parish church of Eglise Paroissiale Saint-Pierre. Although the church is dedicated to Saint-Pierre, the patron saint of fishermen, in recognition of its location on Mont Saint-Michel, inside you will find a glorious statue of Saint Michael the archangel slaying the dragon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ec57b87f-8a19-4fe9-85ab-55226fbb5908/Black+Madonna.jpg Blog - Max’s Favourite Churches and Abbeys in France - # 2 - Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour Further down the track, I will write a more detailed blog post about Rocamadour, but this particular effort is primarily about just the shrine of Our Lady of Rocamadour. There have been many stories regarding the origin of the 69 cm tall 12th-century walnut statue, with some claiming she was brought from the holy land by Saint Amadour. The miracles began in 1166 when the intact body of the blessed Saint Amadour was found in the rock face. Geraud d’Escorailles wrote the Book of Miracles in 1172, which documents the 126 miracles performed by the Madonna. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e8a8778f-34e3-49bf-9281-f5a7b4074840/Saint+Radegonde+Chapel.jpg Blog - Max’s Favourite Churches and Abbeys in France - # 1 - Eglise de Sainte-Radegonde And now for my absolute favourite, I am fascinated by medieval heroines and I guess that is why I felt drawn to this church in particular. It is probably not most people’s choice, especially in Poitiers where you are spoiled for choice when it comes to churches, however, I do encourage you to check this one out if you are ever in this gorgeous city. Although dating from the 6th century when it took its name from the venerated Saint Radegonde, Frankish queen and nun, the current building dates from the 11th and 12th centuries. The chapel itself is stunning, with a series of 16 stained glass windows partially dating from the 13th century depicting the life of Radegonde. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/ultimate-packing-list monthly 0.5 2025-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e2674060-3822-49b4-81d8-20df047eedc6/Packing+Blog+23_11_2022.jpg Blog - Deb’s Ultimate Packing List Ready to go… maybe!! https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/canterburycathedral monthly 0.5 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/74c0683b-d8ef-4946-a956-3a507e2a9782/Canterbury+Cathedral+IMG_E4355.JPG Blog - Canterbury Cathedral - Canterbury Cathedral, one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England was founded in 597 and has been the primary ecclesiastical centre of England since the early 7th century. Canterbury Cathedral https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/35d16566-5db6-40ab-8f34-5b8c81a3897f/Canterbury+Cathedral+Blog+dreamstime_xxl_77713898.jpg Blog - Canterbury Cathedral - I recently had the opportunity to visit the cathedral during a scouting trip for our Plantagenets in England tour, believe me, it is definitely a site not to be missed if you are ever in South East England. Intricate carving on the pulpit in the Nave of Canterbury Cathedral https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f52c627d-b472-41ea-b5bd-f21235fdb607/IMG_E4353.JPG Blog - Canterbury Cathedral - Probably the story that most history enthusiasts associate with Canterbury Cathedral was the murder of Thomas Becket on the 29th of December 1170. I found this carving interesting, the vision of church and state praying together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/bd9ac7aa-2003-4bdb-96d6-1bb9969373af/Canterbury+Cathedral+Blog.jpg Blog - Canterbury Cathedral - In a final act of reprisal, before leaving France Becket issued three letters of ex-communication to the Archbishop of York and two bishops for their part in the unauthorised coronation of the Young King. If only he had known how disastrous the resulting circumstances of that act would be upon his return to England. Today only a solitary candle marks the spot where the shrine of Thomas Becket once stood, before it was destroyed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/17523aab-3e39-4062-a7e3-341c189e44a5/Canterbury+Cathedral+Blog+Black+Prince.jpg Blog - Canterbury Cathedral - I was particularly excited to gaze upon the tomb of Edward the Black Prince, one of my heroes, mind you I do have a couple of them. The tomb of Edward of Woodstock, the Black Prince https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/8a82a951-447d-4f27-a566-b51e825e655e/Canterbury+Cathedral+Blog+Henry+IV+Joan+of+Navarre.jpg Blog - Canterbury Cathedral - Opposite the tomb of the Black Prince lies the tomb of Henry IV and Joan of Navarre, a fact that really took me by surprise, when you consider that it was the son of the Black Prince whom Henry took the throne from in 1399. Trying to ponder the political intrigue of the time is a fascinating exercise… I can’t help but wonder what made Henry choose to be buried at Canterbury Cathedral when so many Plantagenet monarchs were buried at the magnificent Westminster Abbey. Was it a final act of repentance against the man who maybe he felt he had wronged, or did he just simply have a preference for that particular location. I have to admit it is definitely an amazing place to decide on as your final resting place. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/legendary-courts-of-love monthly 0.5 2024-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/5a1a8192-5a4f-4778-b89f-0147e46f34ff/IMG_7711.JPG Blog - Legendary Courts of Love - Were the Legendary Courts of Love real? Palais de Justice, Poitiers, France Photo © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/maubergeonne-tower monthly 0.5 2025-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7625de2c-228c-4a5d-9930-79631cbde14b/Maubergeonne+Tower+24_9_2022.jpg Blog - Maubergeonne Tower - Maubergeonne Tower - part of the original ducal palace and seat of the former Counts of Poitou and Dukes of Aquitaine in Poitiers…. if only the walls could talk, what interesting tales they would tell. Maubergeone Tower in Poitiers © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/angevin-kings-descended-from-devil monthly 0.5 2025-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/48f184ae-b568-43d9-bbcd-2d7f1a9c3bd9/Mellusine%2C+demon+goddess+of+Anjou+.jpg Blog - The Angevin Kings… descended from the devil or not? - The Middle Ages was a time full of myths, legends and superstitions, the Plantagenets (or the Angevins in particular) are the subject of the one I find most fascinating. Melusine, Demon Countess of Anjou https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/rouen-cathedral-light-show monthly 0.5 2025-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/4a4aad93-f910-4926-b6fe-19efd6d59a0d/Rouen+Cathedral+landscape.jpg Blog - Rouen Cathedral - A Jewel of Gothic Majesty: Rouen Cathedral Rouen Cathedral Light Show © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/why-i-chose-the-plantagenets monthly 0.5 2025-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/190eb29a-6e3e-414f-8fb2-014607581d76/Why+I+chose+the+Plantagenets+18_4_2023+%281%29.JPG Blog - Why I chose the Plantagenets? - Themed Historical Tours of France and the UK… what a great idea — but why choose the Plantagenets? A Dream Come True, first walking into Fontevraude Abbey, France © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/blog/welcome monthly 0.5 2025-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d8e6ae36-420e-4d5c-97f4-0945b3c32e52/IMG_E3127Lds.jpg Blog - Welcome Max, your friendly Tour Manager © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/themed-historical-tours daily 0.75 2026-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734336451016-Y80Q7SFA3HXGV1BR33AH/Carcassonne+20240910_204028EE.jpg Tours https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/30655240-0e13-4e19-83e1-bd2111171aea/Rocamadour+20240911_130825.jpg Tours Rocamadour, Occitania, France Photo © Plantagenet Discoveries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1dfd5124-02ca-4e17-8da3-2c3d51b406b2/IMG_E3464.JPG Tours Kenilworth Castle, England Photo © Plantagenet Discoveries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/5a809564-bed1-4693-8440-a2e4344b0da6/IMG_E3986.JPG Tours Cliffords Tower, York, England Photo © Plantagenet Discoveries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/20e759cd-9310-4fd3-b09d-44f4b4b290ec/Carcassonne+IMG_E2006.JPG Tours View of medieval city of Carcassonne, Languedoc Region, France Photo © Plantagenet Discoveries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/55d575fd-59af-4c3a-bab3-6d788dd142e5/Stirling+Castle+1.jpg Tours Stirling Castle, Scotland Photo © Plantagenet Discoveries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/5fe5b9b9-b6f5-44c2-864f-1e6a15df880f/Pontefract+Castle+IMG_4127.JPG Tours Pontefract Castle, Yorkshire, England Photo © Plantagenet Discoveries https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/about-us daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/658c0aa1-8a2e-4f98-9ee7-77ac89f79a18/York+IMG_4085.JPG About Us - Our Vision To be the travel experience of choice for those who want more than just sightseeing - instead, inspiring a never-ending curiosity to “Discover the Past, Enrich your Story,” and uncover the threads that link yesterday to today. Our Mission To create thoughtfully designed, small-group journeys that inspire connection with history, with culture, and with one another — offering the kind of personal care and attention that turns moments into memories and memories into lasting stories. Our Core Values Excellence - Every detail matters. Passion - We share history with joy. Respect - For people, places, and stories. Integrity - Honest, transparent, trustworthy. Enjoyment - Learning with laughter and delight. Guided by these values — simple, heartfelt, and always with you in mind — every tour becomes part of your story. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fcb845a6-31b7-4b69-b7e7-dc5124543b93/About+Us+Guedelon+311292519_1225622894950256_1535199611304880207_n.jpg About Us - I’m Maxine, but please call me Max, and I’m the founder and host of Plantagenet Discoveries. I’m the kind of person who feels things deeply and notices the quiet details others might miss like the weight of a worn stone step, the faded brushstroke in an ancient fresco, or the stillness of a forgotten abbey. I’m drawn to meaning, to story, and to the threads that connect us to the past and to each other. A story is what builds the bridge, and connection is what makes us want to cross it. That belief has shaped not just my tours, but my life. I love the quiet magic of discovery, and I believe travel should be about more than ticking boxes, it should move us, challenge us, and stay with us long after we’ve unpacked our bags. I don’t do “big and flashy.” I do thoughtful, personal, and quietly unforgettable. Books were my gateway into the past, and over twenty years ago, Sharon Kay Penman’s The Sunne in Splendour changed everything for me. Her portrayal of Richard III didn’t just teach me history, it opened a door. I stepped through it, and I never really came back. That book sparked an all-consuming love of everything medieval, particularly the Plantagenet era, that led me down rabbit holes of research, across continents, and into the lives of kings, queens, and countless others whose stories deserve to be remembered. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/home daily 1.0 2025-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/82724c5f-0129-4dd1-95b0-9729e43b4823/Rocamadour+IMG_E2159.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/500e25d9-521f-49d9-a5d1-3868e486db73/Kenilworth+Castle+13.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/20e759cd-9310-4fd3-b09d-44f4b4b290ec/Carcassonne+IMG_E2006.JPG https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/terms-conditions daily 0.75 2026-03-12 https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/contact daily 0.75 2025-04-30 https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/frequently-asked-questions daily 0.75 2025-05-07 https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/hammer-of-the-scots daily 0.75 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1742707271090-6SUMCOQ3OFZPZ5KQYMCM/Caernarfon+Castle+callum-parker-6y6_wKazBq8-unsplash.jpg Hammer of the Scots - Hammer of the Scots Edward I (Longshanks) is famous as a fierce warrior, he is also notorious for his harsh treatment of both the Scots and the Welsh. Join us on this exciting adventure as we explore the 35 tumultuous years of his reign, and the tremendous impact he had on not only England, but also on Scotland and Wales. Planned for 2028! https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/wars-of-the-roses daily 0.75 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c04e051d-4965-47c3-9da5-65bcdbeb578b/IMG_E3357.JPG Wars of the Roses - Wars of the Roses On this enthralling journey we will be travelling from London throughout England, exploring the 28 year brutal and bloody struggle for the crown of England. We will visit astounding sites which include Leicester Cathedral, Warwick Castle, and Bosworth Field - where the ultimate demise of the Plantagenet era took place. Planned for 2027/28! https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/privacy-policy daily 0.75 2024-12-16 https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/historical-book-reviews daily 0.75 2025-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e47959c3-0df0-469f-9314-4c538d0b5083/Book+Review+-+Sarum.jpg Historical Book Reviews - Sarum (Edward Rutherfurd) Epic fiction rooted in land, memory and time! Rutherfurd brings history to life not as distant events but as lived experience, told through families, faith, and the land itself. From the Ice Age to the twentieth century, his characters carry both memory and ambition, showing how the smallest choices ripple across generations and how the land itself becomes the truest storyteller. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/2605c1a2-9806-4fa2-b405-ca9c29307c18/Book+Review+-+The+Eagle+%26+The+Hart.jpg Historical Book Reviews - The Eagle and the Hart (Helen Castor) Two cousins bound by blood, but torn apart by power Drawing me in from the very first page, Helen Castor brings to life the tension between legitimacy and ambition, family and betrayal, in a way that made me stop and totally rethink a story I thought I knew. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ab8c0df0-0d4d-48fe-96d8-5067e44e6af9/The+Good+Wife+of+Bath+Image+%281%29.jpg Historical Book Reviews - The Good Wife of Bath (Karen Brooks) What if the most scandalised woman in Geoffrey Chaucer’s world had a story of her own to tell? In this rich and emotionally layered novel, The Good Wife of Bath steps beyond satire and into humanity. Through Eleanor’s fierce wit, flawed decisions, and quiet resilience, Brooks invites us to reconsider not just one woman’s tale, but the way women have been seen and misunderstood for centuries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/82b8f7ab-263e-4845-9425-4565b0f2d4d7/Book+Reviews+Stonehenge.JPG Historical Book Reviews - Stonehenge (Bernard Cornwell) A fascinating insight into the mystery surrounding what is unarguably the most famous stone circle of all Renowned for his mastery of historical fiction, this time Bernard Cornwell ventures into an entirely different era with Stonehenge. Set in the late Neolithic period, this captivating novel immerses us in the world of the fictional tribe of Ratharryn, offering a fresh and imaginative perspective on the construction of this iconic monument. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/a69beeaa-cbfc-4695-9f25-aad31d429f60/Book+Reviews+A+Court+of+Betrayal.jpg Historical Book Reviews - A Court of Betrayal (Anne O’Brien) A gripping tale of resilience - told through the eyes of Joan, the forgotten wife of a traitor Anne O’Brien shines a light on Joan de Geneville, a woman often overlooked and torn between love, loyalty and survival amidst the chaos of war and betrayal. Another piece of the intriguing puzzle that is the story of Isabella, the She-Wolf of France and Marcher Lord Roger Mortimer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/09533ecb-ac58-4965-abe0-bdc5316db1ff/The+Winter+Mantle.JPG Historical Book Reviews - The Winter Mantle (Elizabeth Chadwick) A fascinating glimpse into the political intrigue following the Battle of Hastings When it comes to historical fiction, Elizabeth Chadwick holds a special place in my heart. Her stories have long transported me to the medieval world, so it’s almost embarrassing to admit that I’d overlooked one of her treasures: The Winter Mantle. One of her earlier works, this novel is a testament to her mastery of weaving history and storytelling, and I can’t believe it took me this long to discover it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7b838584-3367-4f0d-8896-1cd6cd785426/Master+of+War+Series.JPG Historical Book Reviews - Master of War Series (David Gilman) A Captivating Journey through the turbulent Hundred Years War Despite its name, the Hundred Years’ War actually lasted 116 years, in this series David Gilman takes us on an extraordinary journey to discover the profound impact this conflict had on the people of both England and France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/85d10563-c744-41c9-93a0-f69b57e61ef3/Book+Reviews+The+Chosen+Queen.JPG Historical Book Reviews - The Chosen Queen (Joanna Courtney) A Tantalising Look at the wife of Harold Godwinson In this her first novel, Joanna Courtney successfully entrances us with an enlightening tale of Ealdgyth of Mercia, and the lesser told story of the leadup to the Battle of Hastings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/23b015c3-7776-4936-b664-9e06f93144b7/Book+Reviews+Labyrinth.JPG Historical Book Reviews - Labyrinth (Kate Mosse) A Fascinating Glimpse into the Cathar Crusade of the 13th Century Labyrinth, is a journey where the horrors of the Albigensian Crusade in the early 13th century come alive with an incredible depth that both mesmerizes and terrifies. Mosse weaves a spellbinding narrative that enthralls from the very first page, immersing you in the enigmatic connection between two young girls. A dual timeline spanning eight centuries, and an intriguing secret, both perilous and veiled, awaiting discovery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b1c25d89-7581-4b13-8700-8e67845f3159/Book+Reviews+The+Stone+Rose.JPG Historical Book Reviews - The Stone Rose (Carol McGrath) A brilliant exploration of the the individual behind the nickname “She-Wolf of France” Carol McGrath manages to unravel the layers of Isabella, consort of Edward II. An extraordinary woman who etched her name in history by invading England and dethroning her husband. But who was she at her core? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/bf406cd1-557a-4397-ab30-065eaf775e3d/Book+Reviews+Sunne+In+Splendour+Reread3.jpg Historical Book Reviews - Sunne in Splendour (Sharon Kay Penman) The Incredible Story of Richard III Wow, what can I say… I am truly touched by the journey that “The Sunne in Splendour” by Sharon Kay Penman has taken me on. Years ago, it was my introduction to historical novels, and the reason behind my inescapable fall into the rabbit hole of Medieval history, particularly the fascinating era of the Plantagenets. Over the span of 22 years, my knowledge has grown exponentially from that initial point of zero, and so I found myself returning to this treasured tale for a re-read. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/quill-ink-intrigue daily 0.75 2024-12-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/09533ecb-ac58-4965-abe0-bdc5316db1ff/The+Winter+Mantle.JPG Quill, Ink & Intrigue - The Winter Mantle (Elizabeth Chadwick) A fascinating glimpse into the political intrigue following the Battle of Hastings When it comes to historical fiction, Elizabeth Chadwick holds a special place in my heart. Her stories have long transported me to the medieval world, so it’s almost embarrassing to admit that I’d overlooked one of her treasures: The Winter Mantle. One of her earlier works, this novel is a testament to her mastery of weaving history and storytelling, and I can’t believe it took me this long to discover it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7b838584-3367-4f0d-8896-1cd6cd785426/Master+of+War+Series.JPG Quill, Ink & Intrigue - Master of War Series (David Gilman) A Captivating Journey through the turbulent Hundred Years War Despite its name, the Hundred Years’ War actually lasted 116 years, in this series David Gilman takes us on an extraordinary journey to discover the profound impact this conflict had on the people of both England and France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/85d10563-c744-41c9-93a0-f69b57e61ef3/Book+Reviews+The+Chosen+Queen.JPG Quill, Ink & Intrigue - The Chosen Queen (Joanna Courtney) A Tantalising Look at the wife of Harold Godwinson In this her first novel, Joanna Courtney successfully entrances us with an enlightening tale of Ealdgyth of Mercia, and the lesser told story of the leadup to the Battle of Hastings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/23b015c3-7776-4936-b664-9e06f93144b7/Book+Reviews+Labyrinth.JPG Quill, Ink & Intrigue - Labyrinth (Kate Mosse) A Fascinating Glimpse into the Cathar Crusade of the 13th Century Labyrinth, is a journey where the horrors of the Albigensian Crusade in the early 13th century come alive with an incredible depth that both mesmerizes and terrifies. Mosse weaves a spellbinding narrative that enthralls from the very first page, immersing you in the enigmatic connection between two young girls. A dual timeline spanning eight centuries, and an intriguing secret, both perilous and veiled, awaiting discovery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/b1c25d89-7581-4b13-8700-8e67845f3159/Book+Reviews+The+Stone+Rose.JPG Quill, Ink & Intrigue - The Stone Rose (Carol McGrath) A brilliant exploration of the the individual behind the nickname “She-Wolf of France” Carol McGrath manages to unravel the layers of Isabella, consort of Edward II. An extraordinary woman who etched her name in history by invading England and dethroning her husband. But who was she at her core? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/bf406cd1-557a-4397-ab30-065eaf775e3d/Book+Reviews+Sunne+In+Splendour+Reread3.jpg Quill, Ink & Intrigue - Sunne in Splendour (Sharon Kay Penman) The Incredible Story of Richard III Wow, what can I say… I am truly touched by the journey that “The Sunne in Splendour” by Sharon Kay Penman has taken me on. Years ago, it was my introduction to historical novels, and the reason behind my inescapable fall into the rabbit hole of Medieval history, particularly the fascinating era of the Plantagenets. Over the span of 22 years, my knowledge has grown exponentially from that initial point of zero, and so I found myself returning to this treasured tale for a re-read. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/plantagenet-heroines-2026 daily 0.75 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1618497259178-6XJGK9GR6YAVBQL5L519/20140301_Trade-151_012-2.jpg 2026 Plantagenet Heroines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1607694583486-2PQT0LQ193RL7MCB6DX4/20140228_Trade+151_0046.jpg 2026 Plantagenet Heroines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1607694644871-IC85FNH781UNZSZEGHDR/Aro+Ha_0428.jpg 2026 Plantagenet Heroines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1a2f5edb-dd75-49d9-ab9e-ab78f13ff8f9/IMG_3446.JPG 2026 Plantagenet Heroines Kenilworth Castle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1fc96b12-b52a-4708-a349-549e59c2d0d9/Rise+of+Plantagenets+Blog+%288%29+IMG_E4284.JPG 2026 Plantagenet Heroines Eleanor Cross, Geddington https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c68003a5-2533-4498-b569-8c3d3194dfcd/IMG_3464E.jpg 2026 Plantagenet Heroines Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire, England https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/42a26c3a-740a-45f6-a9e9-45c617ddc604/IMG_3077.JPG 2026 Plantagenet Heroines Lacock https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/8b385968-3f51-4720-85ed-f3cb4e87de84/IMG_4172.JPG 2026 Plantagenet Heroines Lincoln Cathedral https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/5a809564-bed1-4693-8440-a2e4344b0da6/IMG_E3986.JPG 2026 Plantagenet Heroines Clifford's Tower, York https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/4c0dc939-dda9-4730-bd48-e138ed2a94a0/IMG_E4214.JPG 2026 Plantagenet Heroines View of Lincoln Cathedral Walls from the Castle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/400ff8e1-cc00-4d2a-98b3-c62b1bdec15d/IMG_4183E.jpg 2026 Plantagenet Heroines Katherine Swynford Tomb, Lincoln Cathedral https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/ae4a77ee-f114-4e64-86e5-7c1c9a8d5b82/Plantagenet+Heroines+Map.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1dfd5124-02ca-4e17-8da3-2c3d51b406b2/IMG_E3464.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/828f2e95-dd7d-4a7e-85ad-542d0e072afc/Lincoln+Dragon+1.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/e95c48b2-b360-429d-9746-351ac4dab944/Sharon+Bennett+Connolly+2.jpg 2026 Plantagenet Heroines - Sharon has graciously agreed to be our resident historian and guide on this extraordinary journey as we discover some of the most amazing Plantagenet heroines! An acclaimed medieval historian and the author of eight non-fiction books, including the highly regarded Heroines of the Medieval World (2017), Sharon has dedicated her career to bringing history’s most remarkable women to life. Through her blog, History the Interesting Bits, and her podcast, A Slice of Medieval (co-hosted with historical novelist Derek Birks), she has captivated readers with her knowledge and engaging storytelling. https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/2026-plantagenets-in-france daily 0.75 2025-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1618497259178-6XJGK9GR6YAVBQL5L519/20140301_Trade-151_012-2.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1607694583486-2PQT0LQ193RL7MCB6DX4/20140228_Trade+151_0046.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1607694644871-IC85FNH781UNZSZEGHDR/Aro+Ha_0428.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/9206dbb3-43d9-471c-a800-f60553298b44/PIF2409+20240909_140907E.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France Cheers, Cite du Vin, Bordeaux https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/5143afd2-852e-46de-b653-fc0b05a28102/Bourge+St+Etienne+Cathedral+IMG_E3150.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France St Etienne Cathedral, Bourges https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/25cef438-e8b3-4863-8c7a-9924f00f9893/Chateau+Gaillard+20240904_110450.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France 12th-century ruins of Chateau Gaillard https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/f1badb06-5cbf-45b7-a4b2-a2619f6a39a4/Chinon+20240907_123057.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France Chinon Castle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338405899-5OVK38MCXEBKXEZULXE1/PIF2409+IMG_5413EE.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France Plantagenets in France Tour 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/68027a9c-ea02-4ac2-a81e-896c038bf06c/IMG_7746.JPG 2026 Plantagenets in France Poitiers Cathedral https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/d784e386-edef-4078-8f01-6918707c4bd3/Mont+Saint-Michel+20240906_072459E.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France Mont Saint-Michel https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734337012953-E5WREA4KZGF5OIYXSBAT/Carcassonne+IMG_4209%28Stu%29.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France View from the Medieval Walls of Carcassonne https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/1734338694664-2YY020YT5X8JKHAFEUWF/Le+Mans+St+Julien+Cathedral+IMG_E1727.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France St Julien Cathedral, Le Mans https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7ffbebb1-0fe7-43a6-b9a0-f0662d418030/Guedelon+Castle+IMG_8376E.jpg 2026 Plantagenets in France Guedelon Castle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/11ff7540-1adc-4256-bdd1-1a42ae9bd46b/Plantagenets+in+France+Map+%283%29.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c7428a60-4a4e-48cc-81d5-3aeaf4d8afea/Mont+Saint-Michel+20220908_074737.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/7625de2c-228c-4a5d-9930-79631cbde14b/Maubergeonne+Tower+24_9_2022.jpg https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/plantagenets-in-england daily 0.75 2025-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/c04e051d-4965-47c3-9da5-65bcdbeb578b/IMG_E3357.JPG Plantagenets in England - Plantagenets in England On this incredible journey we will be travelling from London throughout England, exploring Plantagenet rule over an astonishing 331 years, from the ascension of Henry II to the demise of Richard III. We will visit astounding sites which include Canterbury Cathedral, Kenilworth Castle, and other must-see locations. Planned for 2027! https://www.plantagenetdiscoveries.com/travel-partners daily 0.75 2025-08-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/480a6e57-5236-48d7-a89f-13940b63e198/PIF2409+IMG_4953.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/152de6a4-a935-4151-930d-c146ff071a53/20240909_140907.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/fb72c4f4-7c2b-48c6-847e-49992b154ffd/IMG_8031.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/3245abc9-e5d1-4e2a-bea7-a07014797bf3/IMG_7519.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fd49c0a3c1f6275809d593f/a41f7676-8e97-40a0-969f-ef90524dc5f8/20240904_102841.jpg