La Camargue By: Sarah (Dragon) Fessler

The production of salt plays a central role in the history of the region (and France as a whole) due to “la Gabelle” in the 14th century…a heavy tax on salt which was not abolished until the French Revolution inthe late 18th century!

The production of rice in the area in the 16th century was mainly for livestock, but in the 19th century it was increased to

desalinate the ground to plant vines. In the 20th century Rice production increased for human consumption and is the first Rice Producing areas in Europe.

The History of Camargue

The Culture of Camargue

Camargue is fairly close to an Ocean, so its big on fishing.

Horses help herd cattle around the rancher’s land and also herd them in ‘The running of bulls in Camargue’

A lot of Camargue’s specialty food is seafood because they are near the ocean.

Cities and VillagesAigues-MortesThis was built by Louis IX as a sea port for departing crusaders in the 13th century.Today it’s a tourist attraction just to see the walls and climb to the top.

Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-MerThis famous church and city has been kept authentic even in the age of technology. In the church there is a statue called “Black Sarah” which was made by Romany Gypsies, they still gather today for a religious festival every year.

What to do, What to doSee a French Bullfight

Take a tour by horseback, bike, jeep, or on your feet.

See the natural ecosystem of Camargue

Boating anyone?

FOODBouillabaisse

Anchoiade

Anguilles (au four)

Gardiane de Taureau

Salade Camarguaise

Aubergines aux anchois et aux capres

FOOD (continued)Barbouillade

Brandade de Morue

Canard aux figues

Moules en Brasucado

Hachis camarguais

Fougasse d'Aigues Mortes

Restaurants: LeLe Pont des Bannes- Local specialties, almost

no out of region cuisine. Dinner Menu Flamant Rose- True Carmague cuisine Mas de Peint- Reservation only, Breakfast MenuLa Tour du Cazeau- Reservation only, Dinner MenuLe Tamaris- Most likely to prepare food that you

can’t get outside of Camargue.

Where to go?

The Festivals of CamargueFestivals in Camargue go through the Spring and Summer months

July- The running of bulls from Camargue and bullfighting

April- Easter celebration May- Cowboy festival July- Parade of traditional costumesSummer- Concerts and dancesSeptember- Rice harvest

Horses are sometimes used in their festivals

Camargue is known as the “French Texas,” and also “the horse of the sea”

Cowboys can be seen herding cattle outside the city of ArlesThe white pelted horse breed is called Camargue (they are always classified

as grays because of the black skin underneath) they are known for as excellent mounts.

The bravest bulls of a bull run are not killed, in addition a statue of them is erected in their honor.

Camargue is also known for their large populations of pink flamingos

Neat Facts