BattlefieldsPeasants' Revolt — sack of Savoy Palace
Medieval

Peasants' Revolt — sack of Savoy Palace

1381
Greater London, England
Also known as: Burning of Savoy 1381
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Greater London, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
John of Gaunt (property)
Forces
c. 0 defenders (unoccupied palace)
VS
Victor
Rebels
Forces
c. 2000-3000 rebels
Outcome
Savoy Palace destroyed; rebels refused to loot, burning everything
The Battle

History & Significance

The greatest private palace in England, belonging to John of Gaunt (Duke of Lancaster and most hated magnate of the reign), was systematically destroyed by the rebels. Notably they refused to loot it — some rebels who tried to steal valuables were thrown back into the flames. The rebels' purpose was destruction of privilege, not theft — a sophisticated political statement.

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