Agincourt field england

The field of Azincourt in northern France was the site of the famous 1415 battle during the Hundred Years' War, where Henry V of England defeated the French.

About this subject

Located near the village of Azincourt in the Pas-de-Calais department, the field where the Battle of Agincourt took place on October 25, 1415, is one of France's most emblematic historical sites. The battle was a decisive confrontation in the Hundred Years' War, a conflict that lasted from 1337 to 1453 between the kingdoms of England and France. The English army, led by King Henry V, was outnumbered, exhausted, and diseased after the long siege of Harfleur. Nevertheless, the English victory was overwhelming thanks to the tactical use of longbow archers, who decimated the French cavalry stuck in the muddy field. French losses were estimated at 6,000 to 10,000 dead, while the English suffered only a few hundred casualties.

The original battlefield has remained largely intact and is now a memorial site, with a monument erected in 1995 to mark the 580th anniversary. Visitors can follow marked trails that trace the troop movements, with informative panels explaining the armies' positions. The area is predominantly agricultural, with crop fields reminiscent of the open terrain of the time, though the landscape has changed over the centuries. The battle was immortalized by William Shakespeare in his play "Henry V", especially in the St. Crispin's Day speech, which has contributed to the popular imagination.

Interestingly, the name "Agincourt" is the French spelling; in English it is known as Azincourt. The battle is often cited as an example of how military technology, in this case the longbow, can overcome traditional tactics. Additionally, the Agincourt field is close to other historic regions like Crécy and Poitiers, forming a triangle of great Hundred Years' War battles. The site's preservation is maintained by the Centre Historique Médiéval d'Azincourt, which offers exhibitions and historical reenactments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the Agincourt battlefield located?

The field is near the village of Azincourt in the Pas-de-Calais department in northern France, about 40 km from Calais.

How many soldiers fought at the Battle of Agincourt?

The English army had approximately 6,000 to 9,000 men, while the French numbered between 12,000 and 36,000, according to various sources.

What was the main factor in the English victory?

The tactical use of longbow archers, who inflicted devastating casualties on the French cavalry trapped in the muddy terrain.