The flight to Varennes refers to the royal family’s failed attempt to escape Paris in June 1791. This event was a turning point in the revolution because it exposed the untrustworthiness of the king and the unworkability of the newly devised constitution.
Overview
Appalled by the growing radicalism of the revolution, particularly its attempts to regulate and control the church, Louis XVI agreed to abscond from the city. The plan, hatched by Count Axel von Fersen and supported by Marie Antoinette, was to travel by coach to Montmedy, a fortress near the German border garrisoned by royalist troops.
Despite a series of blunders, the royal entourage escaped Paris and travelled to within 30 kilometres of its goal. At Varennes, the king was recognised and identified by a local postmaster. Louis and his family were promptly detained and hustled back to Paris under guard.
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