Happy Birthday to the Maid of Orleans.On May 8th, 1929, after several months of waiting, the British lifted the siege of Orleans and left the city without a fight. Thus, liberated Orleans could host the coronation of Charles VII. All agreed at the time that Oleans owed this triumph to none other than Joan of Arc. Under her command, France regained its honour and managed to rout the invading English.To celebrate the 600th anniversary of the birth of Joan of Arc, the city is dedicating the year 2012 to the young Maid of Orleans. From January 6th 2012, the Remise de l’Epée (surrendering of the Sword) ceremony will take place in the Saint Croix Cathedral of Orleans (Jan. 6th is commonly accepted as Joan's birth date).Throughout the year until October, a number of highlights will honour the memory of Jeanne / Joan (exhibitions, events, shows) in a fitting commemoration of the liberator of Orleans!