Joan, Countess of Ligny facts for kids
Joan, Countess of Saint-Pol and Ligny (died September 18, 1430, in Avignon), also known as the Demoiselle de Luxembourg, was an important noblewoman. In 1430, she became the ruler of the lands of Saint-Pol and Ligny.
Joan was the daughter of Guy of Luxembourg, Count of Ligny and Mahaut of Châtillon, Countess of Saint-Pol. She never married and did not have any children.
When Philip I, Duke of Brabant passed away on August 14, 1430, Joan was his closest living relative on his mother's side. Because of this, she inherited the lands of Saint-Pol and Ligny. At that time, she was living at Beaurevoir. This castle belonged to her favorite nephew, John.
Joan of Arc and the Demoiselle
While Joan was living at Beaurevoir, her nephew John had a famous prisoner. This prisoner was Joan of Arc, whom he had captured. The Demoiselle de Luxembourg was very kind to Joan of Arc. She asked her nephew not to sell Joan of Arc to the English. To convince him, she promised to make him her heir if he listened to her.
Passing and Inheritance
The Demoiselle de Luxembourg died soon after this event. Her lands were then divided between her nephews. Her older nephew, the Count of Brienne, received Saint-Pol. Her favorite nephew, John, received Ligny.
In Books
Where Does Joan Appear?
The Demoiselle de Luxembourg is a character in a historical novel. She appears in The Lady of the Rivers, written by Philippa Gregory in 2011. This book is about her great-niece, Jacquetta of Luxembourg.
