In 15th-century France, Gilles de Rais, a wealthy nobleman and celebrated war hero, descended into madness and infamy. Initially known for his bravery alongside Joan of Arc, he became notorious for the abduction, torture, and murder of over 140 children. His heinous crimes were driven by a thirst for violence and a failed pursuit of alchemy and satanic rituals. While he confessed under threat of torture, some believe de Rais was a victim of a church conspiracy, leaving his true guilt or innocence forever shrouded in mystery. Huge thanks to our Sponsors: Acorns: Head to acorns.com/crimehub or download the Acorns app to start saving and investing for your future today! Shopify: Go to shopify.com/crimehub to take your retail business to the next level today. * * * DISCLAIMER: This episode contains explicit content. Parental guidance is advised for children under the age of 18. Listen at your own discretion. #crimehub #truecrime #gillesderais Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices