Statue of Richard I outside the Houses of Parliament in London. [https://www.historic-uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/richard-lionheart-westminster-abbey.jpg source]

For the last 16 years I have lived in the Limousin region of South West France. Not many people know that this used to be english territory in the time of Richard I - better known as Richard the Lionheart. Richard spent much of his life defending this territory and he spoke and wrote in langue d'oc (old occitan french.)

There are a series of fortified buildings (castles and churches) along the boundary that were developed in the time of Richard. I created a long distance bridleway connecting these castles. See [[The Lionheart Ride]].)

Whilst researching the ride I came across a fascinating book about Richard's life written by Oxford historian, Chris Manson. It is written in the first person and claims to be a translation of his diaries.

Chris talks about the book in the following BBC interview:

YOUTUBE HYAKg2mt8uo Interview with Chris Manson, author of "The Diaries of Richard the Lionheart"

Richard tends to be remembered for his exploits in the crusades. He was a fearless warrior, tactician and horseman driven by audacious goals. Not many people know that he was also a poet and troubadour!

Whilst locked in a prison and held to ransom he wrote "Ja Nus Hons Pris" also known as [[Prison Song]].