Travelling, between war and peace - Portraits de Loire à la Renaissance 5/6

In times of peace, the Loire Valley grew and developed and its river linked up with the world. Ideas moved around freely.  

In times of war, the Loire Valley became a strategic battleground. The Wars of Religion left deep scars in people's memories. 

Towns sought protection behind their ramparts, but could not prevent atrocities for all that. Trade was paralysed, the passing armies terrorised locals and shortages in food staples led to famine.  

The Loire and its ships were grim onlookers and actors of the events unfolding.