Joshua Janavel

Joshua Janavel, also written Giosuè Gianavello (1617 – 5 March 1690) was an Italian condottiero and defender of the Waldensian Evangelical Church. He was involved in the Piedmontese Easter of 1655, and in the Glorious Homecoming of 1689.

Born in Rorà, Janavel was a relatively prosperous farmer until his life took a sharp turn in 1655. In that year the Duke of Savoy launched a military operation against the Waldensian population with the intent of eradicating Protestantism from the region.

Janavel led the defense of Rorà, and succeeded in repelling the Savoyard assault. For the courage which he displayed at this battle, he became known as "the Lion of Rora" and "the captain of the valleys". However, the resistance did not endure for long. The Waldensians were defeated in the Valle Germanasca on 10 May, and Janavel was forced into exile, settling in Queyras. Notwithstanding threats against his family and a bounty of three hundred ducats on his head, Janavel soon returned to reorganize the Waldensian insurgents, together with Barthelemy Jahier.

Bowing to international pressure, Duke Charles Emmanuel II ended the campaign against the Waldensians and restored the status quo ante. Janavel continued to lead the underground Waldensian resistance.

Janavel died of edema in Geneva on 5 March 1690.

Janavel's house, known as la Gianavella, exists to this day. After passing through various owners, it was acquired by the Waldensian Evangelical Church and converted into a museum.