Eleanor of Aquitaine

The life story of Eleanor of Aquitaine, a woman who changed the course of history.

Three times she became queen and was the mother of many kings.

To her husband, Henry II, she bore eight children, including five sons. The dearest to her was Richard the Lionheart.

This queen inspired many troubadours who sang of her in their works:

“Dearest are the meetings with my friends,
Dearest are the talks and a cozy home—
But most of all I wait for the day when I can again give honor to dear Donne.”

She made a queen out of a queen on the chessboard.

She actively took part in state affairs: she introduced changes to England’s lighting, brought linen underclothes and tablecloths.

She taught the English to enjoy French wines.

From 1173 to 1187 she found herself in captivity, losing everything: power, honors, and even her children. Yet her willpower and charisma influenced her sons, who rose against their father.

She created hospitals with systematic patronage, granted cities privileges and exemptions in her son Richard’s name, preparing him for rule.

She survived many losses and tragic events (her first son William died at three, Henry did not live to 29, and her beloved son Richard was killed at 41 by a senseless accident).

With wisdom, she resolved matters of succession, and even at age 80 ensured her granddaughter Blanche a place on the French throne—thereby passing on the blood of the Plantagenets.

An extraordinary woman with outstanding intellect, passion for life, and practical wisdom.

Friendly, kind, and cheerful.

Created by the Lord God.