Mystery surrounds disappearance of legendary French sword after 1,300 years in rock

In a shocking turn of events, the French version of King Arthur's legendary Excalibur sword, known as Durandal, has mysteriously disappeared from its resting place in a rock in Rocamadour, southern France. The sword, which was said to have been plunged into the rock 1,300 years ago and was believed to be indestructible, was chained 32ft off the ground, making its theft a baffling feat. Local mayor Dominique Lenfant expressed the community's deep sense of loss, stating that Durandal had been an integral part of Rocamadour for centuries and was a significant symbol for the village. Durandal, the sword of Roland, a legendary paladin and officer of Charlemagne in French epic literature, is steeped in myth and history. According to the 11th-century poem The Song of Roland, the sword possessed magical powers and was said to contain relics such as a tooth of St Peter, the blood of St Basil, and the hair of St Denis. Roland's desperate attempts to destroy the sword before his death at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass, to prevent it from falling into enemy hands, only added to its mystique. The sword's disappearance has left Rocamadour feeling as though a part of its identity has been stolen. Rocamadour, known for its picturesque beauty and eponymous goat's cheese, was voted France's favorite village in 2016. The town's connection to Durandal, a symbol of strength and valor, has added to its allure over the centuries. The sword's sudden vanishing act has sparked intrigue and speculation, with no clear explanation as to how it was removed from its secure location in the rock face. The legend of Durandal and its ties to the village of Rocamadour have only deepened with this puzzling disappearance, leaving the community and visitors alike in disbelief. The myth surrounding Durandal, its origins, and its significance in French folklore have captured the imagination of many. The sword's association with Roland, Charlemagne, and the epic battles of old has made it a revered artifact in the region. The disappearance of Durandal has not only left a physical void in Rocamadour but has also stirred emotions and reflections on the enduring power of legends and the mysteries of the past. As the investigation into the theft of Durandal continues, the story of the legendary sword and its enigmatic disappearance will undoubtedly become a chapter in the rich tapestry of Rocamadour's history.