
Recently returned from a summer-break in France, during which a highlight was the annual medieval fete in Vouvant, Pays de la Loire – the only fortified village of Vendee.
Between 1150 and 1216, all of western France was ruled by the English kings; Henry II and Richard I – before being lost during the reign of King John. ‘Gains’ were made during the Hundred Years’ War, but all territories in France were lost by 1558, during the reign of Queen Mary I. All that remains are the three lions of England on the Royal Standard (and football shirts) – actually representing the kingdoms of England, Anjou (Loire) and Aquitaine. Here are some pictures from the day.