Ronceval

Deep in the Pyrenees lies the valley of Ronceval, sight of a famous medieval battle between Charlemagne’s army and a band of Saracens led by king Marsil. This famous incident, recounted in great detail in The Song of Roland was also the fatal battle of the title hero.

Visitors to Ronceval will be shown first to the site where Roland and his band of warriors were treacherously attacked. Because of the knight Ganelon’s treasonous dealings with the Saracens, Roland was in the rear guard of the army, and the Saracens knew it. It is at this place that Roland made his mighty last stand, personally fending off wave after wave of attackers, and refusing to call for aid.

Period photograph of the actual event.

Then they will be shown to the oak tree where Roland finally fell. Contrary to popular belief, he was not killed by a Saracen. Instead, he blew his Elephant tusk horn so loud that he gave himself an aneurism. Fortunately, the call was loud enough to alert Charlemagne’s army, who then rode in and finishes the battle. A memorial to this mighty deed stands at the place where, in his final act, Roland drove his sword into the ground to keep it from enemy hands.

These deeds have been retold many times, and as with all legends, have gained many details over the years. It is now difficult to tell fact from fiction, but all of the various guides to Ronceval tell a fascinating tale.