Bloody Facts About King Richard the Lionheart
“I am born in a rank which recognizes no superior but God, to whom alone I am responsible for my actions; but they are so pure and honorable that I voluntarily and cheerfully render an account of them to the whole world". —Richard the Lionheart
“Something as curious as the monarchy won’t survive unless you take account of people’s attitudes. After all, if people don’t want it, they won’t have it". —Prince Charles
Richard the Lionheart may have lived centuries ago, but his legend still goes on today. Like any teenager, he rebelled against his own father—who, may we add, was king at the time—with his brothers.
Later, when Richard himself became king, he famously led the Crusades in hopes of winning Jerusalem for the Christians.
This English king who barley spoke a word of the language also decided prior to his demise that parts of him were to be buried in various places. Some loved him, some hated him, but he did hold the throne for nearly a decade.
Take a look into his life.
1. So Many Titles, So Little Time
Richard I was born on September 8, 1157, and was known by quite a number of titles and names during his life. He’s most known today as Richard the Lionheart, but also would have answered to the French Richard, Coeur de Lion; Duke of Aquitaine starting in 1168; then of Poitiers four years later. Between 1189-1199 he was King of England, Duke of Normandy and Count of Anjou.
2. Forgive Me, Father
Richard was the spare’s spare, if you will. He was the third son born to his parents, Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Richard and his brothers weren't known for their great respect for dear old dad.
They rebelled against their father in 1173 and 1174, when Richard was only about 16 or 17 years old. It didn’t really go all that great, and Richard gave in, with his father pardoning him for his actions.
The father-son family drama wasn't over yet, though, and after further disagreements Richard would eventually ally with France to all but browbeat his father into naming him as heir to the throne of England, whereupon Henry II promptly passed on.
3. Do You Want A Piece Of Me?
When Richard did pass, parts of his body went to different places. Gross, I know, but bear with me here. Richard was very specific about where certain parts were to go.
His body, crown, and regalia were buried alongside his father in the royal abbey of Fontevraud, while his embalmed heart went to Rouen cathedral because of his profound love for Normandy.
But there’s more: his entrails were also sent to the region of Limousin to be buried.
4. Richard Saves The Day!
If you’re a fan of Robin Hood, you’ll likely know that Richard is often depicted in the films. He shows up toward the end, garnering the character the nickname of “Richard of the Last Reel". He’s always depicted as being triumphant and heroic as he comes to punish the bad guys, namely Prince John and the Nottingham Sheriff.
