Coronation of Charles VII at Reims

Timeline

1. 1429Loire Valley · Loire ValleyAfter the relief of Orléans, Joan of Arc and Marshal de La Hire led French forces east along the Loire, successively capturing Jargeau, Meung, Beaugency and other English positions, destroying the force of the Earl of Talbot, and opening the military route north to Reims, creating conditions for the king's coronation.
2. 1429Reims · Champagne-ArdenneFrench forces advanced north from Champagne, with towns such as Châlons and Troyes submitting along the way. On July 16, Charles VII led his army into Reims, where the bishop and citizens welcomed him; coronation preparations began and Reims Cathedral was readied for the ceremony.
3. 1429Reims Cathedral · Champagne-ArdenneArchbishop Reginald of Chartres anointed and crowned Charles VII at Reims Cathedral, with Joan of Arc standing at his side holding a banner. The ceremony used the traditional holy oil to establish the Valois king's legitimacy, publicly denying the French crown claimed by England's Henry VI under the Treaty of Troyes.