The Martyrs of Compiègne were the 16 members of the Carmel of Compiègne, France: 11 Discalced Carmelite nuns, three lay sisters, and two externs. They were executed by the guillotine towards the end of the Reign of Terror, at what is now the Place de la Nation in Paris on 17 July 1794, and are venerated as martyr saints of the Catholic Church. Ten days after their execution, Maximilien Robespierre himself was executed, ending the Reign of Terror. Their story has inspired a novella, a motion picture, a television movie, and an opera, Dialogues of the Carmelites, written by French composer Francis Poulenc.
Christian feast day: Martyrs of Compiègne
On July 17, in the year 0, Christian feast day: Martyrs of Compiègne. This event is recorded as a Holidays event in the history of July 17, a notable event in this corner of history.
Key Facts
- This event took place on July 17, 0 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Holidays event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 15 June 2026.
On This Date in History
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