France history - 1000 years

France history - for 1000 years, the histories and Royalty of France and England have been intertwined. England has ruled various parts of France through the centuries and many chateaux and ancient towns of the wine regions have strong English links. Some are the final resting places of English kings, including Richard the Lionheart. Bordeaux was the centre of English interest for some three hundred years and trade between the two countries was a major factor in the development of the region’s wine producing and exporting industry.

France is justifiably proud of its history and has gone to great lengths to restore and preserve many historic buildings and monuments which are now open to the public. WineDrive’s tourism pages give details of castles, chateaux and other places of interest, together with a brief outline of the local history. More information is available on the WineDrive Premier Pages.
	Detail from stained glass window in Hôtel de Ville, Poitiers, depicts Eleanor of Aquitaine signing 'Poitiers Charter'. Eleanor married Henry II of England in 1152.

The French Revolution

Check out our 'Two Minute Revolution', a quick guide to the revolutions which re-shaped the nation after more than a thousand years of monarchy.

Other links provide an overview of all the French kings from the twelfth century to Napoleon and the Revolution. They can be cross-referenced with our tourist notes and routes. When you have decided which places to visit from WineDrive’s travel notes, print off the relevant pages and take them with you. With just a little historical knowledge, your drive through the French countryside and the sites and sounds of France will take on a whole new meaning, adding to your enjoyment and creating images and stories to accompany the fine local wines you will undoubtedly be bringing home!

Click the Rulers Index button for rulers of France