Eleanor of Aquitaine

Eleanor of Aquitaine lived for 82 years, an extraordinary
accomplishment for someone living in the 12th century. She was
Queen of France, Queen of England, a great patroness of the arts,
and instrumental in the legend and success of Richard the
Lionheart. She wielded power in a time when most people thought
women incapable of doing so. Her influence was felt throughout
England and France, and through Europe as well. Eleanor traveled
the world, leaving her mark wherever she went. She is buried
between the two men whose reigns she helped define: her husband,
Henry II, who expanded his empire and influence through their
marriage; and her son, Richard I, whose image as the successful
English hero King she helped create.


History shows us what's possible.