The Loire Campaign: Joan of Arc’s Victories at Meung-sur-Loire and Beaugency (June 1429)

Following the lifting of the Siege of Orléans on May 8, 1429, Joan of Arc and the French forces launched a rapid offensive along the Loire River, securing key English-held strongholds as a prelude to advancing on Reims for Charles VII’s coronation.

As part of this successful campaign, Joan’s forces captured Meung-sur-Loire on June 15, 1429, and Beaugency on June 17, 1429, further weakening English control over the Loire region.

I. The Capture of Meung-sur-Loire (June 15, 1429)

• Meung-sur-Loire was a strategically important town, controlling a vital bridge over the Loire River.
• Joan and the French forces attacked the town on June 15, forcing the English garrison to retreat into the castle, which they were unable to defend for long.
• The French swiftly took control of the bridge, securing a key crossing point and tightening their grip on the Loire.