Medieval history was marked by a war known as the Hundred Years’ War, even though it actually lasted 116 years. It opposed the English dynasties of Plantagenet and Lancaster to the French Valois and was marked by renowned figures like Joan of Arc and the Black Prince. The Hundred Years’ War began with the seizing of Guyenne by the English Crown and ended with its reconquest during the battle of Castillon in 1453. The location of Villarceaux on the border between the two kingdoms justified the construction of its fortified castle.