Enjoy the story of David versus Goliath? Then you will like the story from the 13th century, during the attempted siege of Bordeaux by Alfonso VIII of Castille. Facing stiff resistance, the king decided to let a single match determine the outcome of the entire campaign, between a single soldier from each side in hand-to-hand combat. The Spaniards chose their biggest warrior. In Bordeaux, the Knight Lalande—young, valiant, but small compared to his adversary—was the sole volunteer. After a bitter fight, and against all odds, he succeeded in bringing down his opponent. The outcome: the Spaniards were escorted out of the city manu militari. Take a look at the inscriptions still etched into the stone at Fossés des Carmes and in Rue du Cahernan. Reminders that strength alone does not win a war!Quartier de Saint-Eloi - Bordeaux
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