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Combat of the Thirty Mar 27, 1351
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"Drink your blood, Beaumanoir, and your thirst will soon be quenched". This is the terrible retort attributed to Geoffrey of Bouays, which the "Battle of the Thirty" has brought to our history books.
The Château de Josselin, in the middle of the 14th century, belongs to the House of France and Jean of Beaumanoir is the captain. We are in the time of the war of succession. Josselin supports the cause of Charles of Blois. Ploërmel is under the command of England’s Bemborough, departed of Jean of Montfort.
The country is ravaged by the garrisons, who attack regularly. A single battle is organized by the two chiefs, who will supply thirty knights from each camp. The battle is waged on foot, in use of the sword, of the dagger, of the axe and of the spear.
On 27 March 1351, the knights of Beaumanoir went to the place of the encounter, in the land of Mi-Voie, between the towns of Josselin and Ploërmel. The camp adverse is composed of twenty English, six German and four Bretons.
The fight achieves exhaustion of the fighters. Josselin is Victor. The camp of Ploërmel has lost it's Captain and with him eight knights, the others are retained as prisoners. During this combat, the chief Breton, wounded asks for a drink of water. Geoffroy of Bouays pronounces this phrase historical: "Drink your blood, Beaumanoir, your thirst will soon be quenched".
The departed of Charles of Blois leave therefore victor of this honorable display of weapons", but nothing is gained nor resolved.
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The Chateau de Josselin in the town of Josselin, Brittany, France. This fortress is the one mentioned above as belonging to the House of France in the Combat of the Thirty.
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Josselin is a “ petite cité de caractère” (small town of historical interest). Its legendary castle stands over the river Oust. The charm of the town is in its medieval dwellings, making it very picturesque. The Notre Dame du Roncier basilica overlooks the town centre.
Josselin was founded in the 11th century by Lord Guéthenoc, the son of whom gave his name to the town. It still has its splendid castle, built on a rocky spur overlooking the Oust. The old fortress was rebuilt many times over the centuries. Olivier de Clisson’s fortifications during the 15th C, strengthened the 12th century building. An extension was made by Jean II de Rohan in the 16th C and it was embellished once again in the 19th C. It has been owned by the Rohan family ever since. There is a striking contrast between the medieval facade on the riverside with its narrow towers and the Renaissance facade with fine sculptured dormer windows on the courtyard side. It is a particularly interesting castle to visit (Tel: 33 (0)2.97.22.36.45). The "Musée de la Poupée" (Doll Museum) which is housed in the outbuildings of the castle has a fine collection of nearly 600 dolls.
A stroll through the town centre among the half-timbered houses is very enjoyable. The tourist office is located in a 17th C timber-framed residence. Whatever you do, don’t forget to walk around the Sainte-Croix Chapel (1060) quarter where you will see 14th, 15th and 15th century houses.
The Notre-Dame du Roncier Basilica, built in the 15th century, is a fine example of flamboyant architecture. Inside, you will notice the beauty of the tomb of Olivier de Clisson and Marguerite de Rohan, the pulpit, the stained glass windows and a the magnificent organs. There is a fabulous view of the town from the top of the bell tower.
The "Bois d’Amour" (Lovers’ wood) is an ideal place for a walk as is the canal towpath. The Oust valley is a good spot for walking or cycling and it’s a paradise for anglers. The Le Rouvray Leisure Centre lake has a childrens playground.
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