A researcher recently discovered historians and archaeologists in France. During excavations in an abandoned church in Brittany, researchers discovered the tombs of a 17th-century couple, testimonies to a love as intense as it was immortal. This discovery is therefore particularly unique and is inscribed deep within the hearts of the other, a revealing gesture that reveals a rare and deeply symbolic practice.
The couple identified by historical documents is that of Pierre de Vigne, a Breton nobleman, and his wife Jeanne Lefebvre. Data analysis shows that they are buried here and there, but the silver urns are found wherever they are noted.
Each urn contains a human heart, carefully preserved using the advanced embalming techniques of the time. After DNA testing, it was confirmed that each urn contained the other’s heart, symbolizing their wish to remain together after death.
According to records, Pierre and Jeanne married in 1642. Their correspondence, found in local archives, testifies to a passionate love and deep mutual respect. Pierre, a knight called upon to defend his territory, wrote frequently to Jeanne, promising to be kind to her even after her death.
Upon his death in 1675, Joan insisted that his heart remain with her and that she be reunited with her husband, who had been her husband a year earlier. This gesture was likely inspired by the religious and cultural beliefs of the time, in which the heart was considered the center of the soul and eternal love.
Entering separate or shared spaces between loved ones was not a common practice, but it does exist in some aristocratic traditions in Europe, particularly in France. It is an expression of extraordinary love or deep religious devotion.
“This discovery illustrates not only a unique love story, but also fascinating funerary practices that reflect the values and beliefs of the 17th century,” explains Dr. Élisabeth Moreau, a historian specializing in funerary rituals.
The discovery of Pierre and Jeanne’s wombs offers a rare glimpse into the couple’s private lives during this period. We also know that throughout the centuries, love has always been a powerful force that transcends the boundaries of life and death.
The church grounds are now a listed historic monument, and an exhibition about this extraordinary couple is in preparation. Not only are the recovered urns and writings on display, but also a reconstruction of their life, allowing visitors to delve deeper into this timeless love story.
Thus, the story of Peter and Joan is a source of inspiration and a testimony to the depth of human love and its ability to endure the tests of time.
