Cross of Bohemia – Croix de Bohême
The Cross of Bohemia, or Croix de Bohême, stands as one of the three poignant memorials commemorating the Battle of Crécy. This historic clash, occurring on August 26, 1346, witnessed the Welsh archers of Edward III of England triumph over the forces of Philippe VI de Valois, marking the onset of the Hundred Years’ War—a protracted conflict spanning 116 years.
Situated at the site where John I of Luxembourg, also known as John the Blind and King of Bohemia, met his demise during the battle, the Cross of Bohemia serves as a solemn tribute to his valiant sacrifice. Although slightly displaced from its original location due to restoration work on its base in 1902, historical evidence suggests that the stone cross predates the battle, likely dating back to the early 14th century.
Following the Battle of Crécy, the cross underwent restoration in 1360, transforming it into a memorial honoring John I’s memory and bravery. Positioned outside Crécy-en-Ponthieu, along the D56 road to Fontaine-sur-Maye, the Cross of Bohemia stands sentinel at the edge of a field, where the road intersects with a small dirt track known as Chemin de l’Armée.
As the oldest memorial of the battle, the Cross of Bohemia serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the lives lost on that fateful day, ensuring that the memory of John I and the events of the Battle of Crécy endure through the ages.
Who was John I of Luxembourg?
John I of Luxembourg, born in 1296, was the sole son of Marguerite de Brabant and Henry VII, Count of Luxembourg and Holy Roman Emperor. In 1310, he ascended to the throne of Bohemia by marrying his first wife, Elizabeth of Bohemia.
Known as John the Blind due to his loss of sight following an unsuccessful eye surgery, he possessed an innate talent for horsemanship and warfare, eclipsing any inclination toward administrative rule. His marriage to Elizabeth also made him the brother-in-law of Charles IV the Fair, King of France, solidifying his ties to the French court.
John I, drawn to the martial pursuits of Europe’s battlefields, found himself in close proximity to the French court, where he benefited greatly from the patronage and support of King Philippe VI.
When the French monarch extended an invitation to the European nobility, John I became a frequent presence at court, leveraging the king’s financial and political backing to his advantage.
Thus, when the moment came to defend France’s honor at the Battle of Crécy, John the Blind did not hesitate to offer his services.
Entrusted with the command of the rearguard, he fought valiantly alongside his comrades. However, upon learning of the French army’s defeat, he resolved to join the fray, requesting that his horse be tethered to those of his companions as he charged into battle.
In the heat of combat, John I met his end as he had lived—sword in hand, fighting alongside his comrades until the last breath.
Department of Somme – Crécy-en-Ponthieu – D56 to Fontaine-sur-Maye – Picardie
Coordinates: Lat 50.243805 – Long 1.910704
Wikimedia Commons: Bust of John I of Luxembourg by Packare CC0
