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 14 th century…a heavy tax on salt which was not abolished until the French Revolution in the late 18 th century! The production of rice in the area in the 16 th century was mainly for livestock, but in the 19 th century it was increased to desalinate the ground to plant vines. In the 20 th century Rice production increased for human consumption and is the first Rice Producing areas in Europe.

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.

Aigues-Mortes This was built by Louis IX as a sea port for departing crusaders in the 13 th century. Today it’s a tourist attraction just to see the walls and climb to the top. Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer This 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.

See a French Bullfight Take a tour by horseback, bike, jeep, or on your feet. See the natural ecosystem of Camargue Boating anyone?

Bouillabaisse Anchoiade Anguilles (au four) Gardiane de Taureau Salade Camarguaise Aubergines aux anchois et aux capres

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 Menu La Tour du Cazeau- Reservation only, Dinner Menu Le Tamaris- Most likely to prepare food that you can’t get outside of Camargue.

Festivals 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 costumes Summer- Concerts and dances September- 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 Arles The 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