VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

20

description

Le service communication de Hérault Méditerranée, a édité 2 000 exemplaires d'un magazine en langue anglaise afin de réopondre à la demande d'information touristique des voyageurs étrangers. Les compagnies RAYANAIR et FLY BE installés à l'AEROPORT BEZIERS CAP d'AGDE acheminent de nombreux touristes anglophones désireux de découvrir les charmes et les atouts de notre terroir Ce premier numéro numéro est distribué à l'aéroport mais il est également consultable et téléchargeable sur notre site internet à l'adresse suivante ..

Transcript of VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Page 1: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:23 Page 1

Page 2: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

Connecting the Atlantic to the Mediterranean was a dream cherished as longago as Roman times. It became a reality in 1681, when the link between Toulouse and the Etang de Thau was opened. Pierre Paul Riquet, the engineerand promoter of this feat of engineering sank his entire fortune into the projectbut didn’t have the satisfaction of seeing it finished as he died six months before its inauguration. He had been working on the Canal, along with 12,000labourers, since 1666. The Canal du Midi is both an historic monument and a World Heritage Site.

Construction work on the Canal du Midi lasted 15 years. Pierre‑Paul Riquet made Agde the laststop before the Etang de Thau and Sète, with aunique construction, the round lock. It is builtout of basalt and allows boats to take one of

three waterways, one of which leads to Toulouse, the se‑cond to the town of Agde and the sea,and the third to the Etang de Thau alongthe course of the Hérault.The port of Agde, situated just beforethe round lock, was created by simplywidening the Canal and today welcomesmany pleasure craft. In the 17th centuryit was home to the administrative centreof the Canal, the Hôtel Riquet, where thecanal engineer was based.The bridge of Jonquié, at Vias, built in1676, was the first construction built onthe stretch from Béziers to Agde.

From Libron to ViasFrom the earliest days of the Canal,crossing the River Libron proveddifficult due to problems of navi‑gation caused by rises in water level.

Exploring a world heritage location,

The River Hérault offers some very beautifulviewpoints along its banks. It crosses the Héraultvalley before it joins the Mediterranean at Le Grau d’Agde. Many fortified windmills werebuilt along its course in the Middle Ages, at Bessan, Castelnau-de-Gers and Saint Thibéry.

At Bessan, in a rural and shady setting, “La Guingette” is a place for relaxation and recreation situated beside the River Hérault withmany facilities : moorings for boats, snack bar,restaurant... During the months of July and August the site is open 7 days a week, lunch-times and evenings, and offers themed mealsevery Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.Free mooring for boats on the Hérault.Tel. 04 67 77 43 93

At Agde a cycle track runs alongside the banks of the Hérault from the town as far as le Grau d’Agde.

On the banks of the river

II

Agde is one of the rare towns in France situated at the meeting

of the waters: the Canal du Midi, the RiverHérault and the Mediterranean Sea.

As Peaceful as the Canal du The shady pathways that run alongside the Canal are an ideal loc

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:23 Page 2

Page 3: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

The beaches of the coastline are some of the finest in the Languedoc

At Agde, from Cap d'Agde to la Tamarissière, a succession of 11 patrolled beaches bordered by pedestrianised roads line 14km of the coastline.Amongst them is one of the most beautiful basaltbeaches in the Mediterranean, l’anse de la GrandeConque, whose black colour bears witness to the former activity of Agde’s volcanoes.

Vias, whose holiday park facilities make itFrance’s second largest resort, offers fine sandybeaches flanked by unspoilt lagoons.

At Portiragnes, the focus is on the restorationof the dunes. Classified as a Station Verte since 2007,Portiragnes boasts a fine sandy beach separatedfrom the urban area by an oasis of greenery.

Preserving qualityProtected by the Plan qualité plages whose aim is to protect marine and dune environments, the beaches are a heritage whose preservation is a major concern for the Communauté d’Agglomération Hérault Méditerrannée, which is investing heavily in their protection and maintenance.The quality of the beaches and their bathing water has been recognised by the award of theBlue Flag European eco-label. In fact the beaches are cleaned and maintained every night during the summer season, starting at 4am, so that they are ready for the arrival of the earliestbathers at day break.

To remedy this, the engineerUrbain Maguès built theWorks of Libron in 1858. Animpressive mechanism ofmobile aqueducts allows theriver water to travel over theCanal when it is in spate without interrupting naviga‑tion. This network of floodgates, gear wheels and chainsis set in an unspoilt landscape.

Around the CanalA nautical halt has been created at Vias to allow pleasurecraft to make a stopover and take on water and elec‑tricity supplies. From there, almost 9km of cycle tracksorganised into five different routes ranging from 13kmto 27km stretch out to the north of the village.There are signboards with information along the way.The distances are suitable for all levels and for rideswith the whole family.There are plenty of opportunities to explore the Canaldu Midi. Cruisers, canal boats and motor boats, there issomething to suit everyoneʼs taste and budget.

Information is available in all the Tourist Offices of the Agglomération area.

Discovered in 1964 in the HéraultRiver just by Agde cathedral by J. Fanjaud, a member of GRASPA(a group for archaeological and undersea research in the Paysd'Agde) under the direction of D.Fonquerie, the Ephèbeis the only bronze statueof the Hellenistic period discovered in France. It is a representation of Alexander the Great,and dates back to thefourth century AD.The Museum is also home to an Etruscanbronze tripod, a series of stonecannons, a wingedvictory statue andsome exceptionalpieces discovered recently : two Romanstatues (Cupid and a young boy dressedin a Roman tunic)dated between the 1st

century before and the1st century after Christ.

Musée de l'EphèbeCap d'AgdeTel. 04 67 94 69 65

Agde : the Ephèbe statue

III

25 kilometres of fine sandy beaches

u Midiocation for quiet walks.

Office de Tourisme de PortiragnesPlace du Bicentenaire34420 Portiragnes PlageTel. 04 67 90 92 [email protected]

Pho

to P

ierr

e R

amond

Pho

to L

aure

nt

Ghe

ysse

ns

Pho

to H

enri

Com

teP

hoto

OT

Cap

d’A

gde

: J-

C M

eaux

soone

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:24 Page 3

Page 4: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Walks and activities amongst nature,

Nature trail

Mont Saint‑Loup in Agde offers a panoramicview of the coastline and the hinterland.Set off along the cliffs to explore thelandscapes, the plant life and the geolo‑gical history of Cap dʼAgde and Mont

Saint‑Loup. Trips are organised every Wednesday during the summer led by a representative from theenvironmental protection association, ADENA.Necessary equipment: a strong pair of shoes ! Length of trip : 2 hours

€5, free for children under 12. Groups, subject to booking. InformationTel. 04 67 01 60 23 - www.adena.bagnas.com

IV

From a distance, Mont Saint-Loup looksout over the lakes. Unspoilt locationswhich have retained their wild beauty.

Escape amongst the volcan

GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL

The local terrain has been shaped by volcanic activity and the town of Agde itself was built on a basalt mound at the end of the 5th century AD. Agde was founded by Phocaean sailors (Greeks from Ionia), who were attracted by the site's locationand the richness of its volcanic soil, naming the town “Agathé Tyché” which means “Good Fortune”.In addition to the fertility of their soil, the volcanoes provided man with basalt, the raw material for urban constructions(quays, religious buildings and civil buildings). Marco Polo christened the town of Agde “the black pearl of the Mediterranean”because of its characteristic geological feature.

The volcanoes of the Agde region (Mont Saint Loup) and Saint Thibéry (Mont Ramus) first became active almost one million years ago. They last erupted more than... 740,000 yearsago.

La Grande Maïre wetland site, bordered bythe Canal du Midi to the north and by sandybeaches to the south, is owned mostly by theFrench Coastal Protection Agency and offersa patchwork of different environments : reedbeds, salt meadows and salt marshes…You can explore this site, remarkable for the richness of its fauna and flora, via three different routes : the 2.5km blue paths, 9km yellow paths or 11km red paths, with information boards all along the way. Guided tours in summer. Bookings : Portiragnes Tourist Office Tel. 04 67 90 92 51

La grande Maïre

Volcanic sitesA nautical halt has been created •The basalt “organ” columns at Saint‑Thibéry : these geological formations are situated right

in the heart of the village (rue du rocher and rue du basalte), and bear witness to the formervolcanic activity of Mont Ramus.

•The basalt flow of the Baumes volcano at Nizas is the site of a large number of basalt stonehuts and lime kilns.

Cap d’Agde underwater trailAt the foot of the cliffs of the Grande Conque beach at Cap dʼAgde, explore the rich underwaterfauna and flora via an undersea trail, as you scuba dive in several metres depth of water. Every day in July and August, three trips for small groups of a maximum of 8 are led by specialist guides from ADENA. Equipment is available for loan.

Enrol at the ADENA bungalow, la Plagette, in the direction of the avant port.For 8 yrs and over, €12 per person. Tel. 04 67 01 60 23

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

Pho

to A

DE

NA

: R

. D

upuy

de

la G

rand

rive

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:24 Page 4

Page 5: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Walks and nature discovery organised by the French Society for the Protectionof Nature.Tel. 67 98 98 42 - [email protected]

Nature in Pézenas

L’ermitagede Castelnau-de-Guers

More than 2,000 years ago, the Roman emperor Domitian had amajor military road built which bears his name, the Via Domitia,which stretches from the Rhône to the Pyrenees.At the bois de la Vallongue, a guide will introduce you to the history of this road, the typically Mediterranean fauna and floraand the particular characteristics of the terroir where “Picpoul de Pinet” wine is produced.Following the visit a wine tasting is offered at the Ormarine wine cellars.

Pézenas-Val d’Hérault Tourist Office. Tel. 04 67 98 36 40

Pinet : the Domitian Way

The 35 hectare Parc departmental de Bessilles (a departmental natureand leisure park) provides a special setting for recreational activitiesin unspoilt surroundings.On offer are many open air sporting activities on multisports grounds.These include tennis, mini-golf and mountain biking, on a site with theFrench Cycling Federation label which is the starting point for 240 kmsof signposted routes. You can also relax in the coolness of the swim-ming pool or picnic in the shade of the age-old pine trees.How to get there ? As you leave Montagnac, follow directions to Villveyrac. After 3 km, turn right in the direction of the base de Bessilles. Information on 04 67 24 07 26

The Parc de Bessilles

V

anoes

The National Nature Reserve of Bagnas is set on an area of almost600 hectares stretching from the beach and the dunes to the Thaulake, containing temporary marshes, Tamarix groves, large reedbeds and established lakes with aquatic plants.The main attraction of the site is the birds, with more than 250 species,some of which are present in their thousands. It is a migration site of international importance with some rare species.To explore all the riches of the Bagnas reserve this summer with aqualified nature guide, trips are organised every Tuesday morning at9am and every Thursday evening at 8pm in July and 7pm in August.

€5 ; free for children under 12.Groups, subject to booking.Tel. 04 67 01 60 23 - www.adena.bagnas.com

The Bagnas Reserve

A 10km walk or mountain bike ride that takes you through the landscapesthat inspired Cézanne. Visit the hermitage of St Antoine du Lac.Tel. 04 67 98 13 61

The cave coopérative of Montagnac offers the opportunity to discover thebeauty of its vineyards through a tour ofthe monumental statues which are sitedalong the paths that run through them.The purpose of this “Art and Nature”route is to use the beauty of art to enhancethe landscape. The statues, which are allegorical references to the vine and towine, blend into their surroundings, creatingviews of a landscape that is unique.

Information from the cave coopérative“les Vignobles Montagnac”.Tel. 04 67 24 03 74www.montagnac-languedoc.com

Montagnac, land of Art and Nature

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to E

ric

Jouv

e

Pho

to A

DE

NA

: R

. D

upuy

de

la G

rand

rive

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:24 Page 5

Page 6: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Pézenas, a centre for country fairs and part of the Languedoc States, was a favouritedestination for Molière and his theatre company the Illustre Théâtre. Its historiccentre still retains the charm of its 17th and 18th century town houses, its cobbledstreets and many 16th century grand houses around the Maison Consulaire, the former centre of municipal power. To be included in your visit, the chapel of theBlack Penitents, transformed into a theatre in the 19th century, the Ursuline Conventand the treasures of the St Jean Collegiate church.

Small and large towns invite you to an exciting exploration of centuri

The historic town centreGuided tours are led by qualified guides who will show you how to read the clues to the developmentof the town and help you to appreciate the historic and nostalgically evocative locations.

July and August, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays,11am. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 5pm.

Night tour of PézenasEnter into the secret charm of the magnificent town houses, at an unaccustomed hour, in a hushed andwelcoming ambience when the monuments put on their evening dress.

Tuesdays at 8.30pm ; €7 and €6. Subject to booking, minimum of 5 people.

Heritage treasure trail“Molièreʼs tale”. A fun and convivial discovery of the Pézenas that Molièreknew. With the aid of a booklet and a map and accompanied by his memory,visitors reply to questions posed about emblematic sites : the shop of hisfriend the barber Gély where he used to go to have his hair curled, the Bât dʼArgent inn where he used to stay with his theatre troupe, and the monumentcreated by the sculptor Injalbert on the initiative of the comité Molière.

Duration of treasure trail 2½ hours. Wednesdays in July and August at 4pm. 8 to 12 yrs : €2.5 - Adults : €6 and €5. Subject to booking, minimum of 3 families.

Focus on towns and

The Scénovision Molière in Pézénas will immerse you in the life of Molière with 3Dfilms and surround sound, in a 17th centuryambience. Five acts. Five rooms. Five diffe-rent ambiences. Fifty minutes in the life ofthe playwright. Thanks to the high qualityproduction, original décor and emotiveatmosphere, the audience/actors are transported into the incredible and hilarious story of the playwright, whose real name was Jean-Baptiste Poquelin.€7 and €6 (children and groups).www.scenovisionmoliere.com

Encountering Molière

The Boby Lapointe Museum is a place of memorial where“Boby watches over” the fansand connoisseurs of his work

and where those who wish to learn about his songs, his mathematical theories and his life will find all they want to know…

June to September : 10am-12pm/4pm- 8pm (except Mondays). €2 or €0.50 from 12yrsto 18 yrs or free. Tel. 04 67 21 02 87

• Door and Ironwork MuseumAn unusual venue displaying a collection of doors (from 15th to the 20th century)from Pézenas and surrounding areas.Entry free. From 10am to 12.30pm and from 3.30pm to 7pm except Mondays.Tel. 04 67 98 35 05

• Interpretation Centre for Architecture and Heritage (CIAP) The CIAP is an informative and educationalvenue which offers the public keys to understanding local architecture and heri-tage. A permanent exhibition is devoted to the local area and its evolution.Entry free. Tel. 04 67 98 36 40

• Vulliod-Saint-Germain MuseumThis town house presents collections offurniture, earthenware and a remarkableseries of Aubusson tapestries telling thestory of Alexander the Great. Following the return to Pézenas of Molière's armchair,which used to be in the shop of the barberGély, an exhibition presents souvenirs of the writer.June to September : from 10am to 12pmand 3pm to 7pm. €2.5 and €1.5. Tel. 04 67 98 90 59

Tartuffe in the Théâtre de Verdure

Men and stones,VI

Pézenas extends its festival “Molière danstous ses éclats” with this summer production,as richly enjoyable as the work of this illustrious author. Thisversion of “Tartuffe”is full of verbal joustingthat will dazzle its audiences. A Molie-resque comedy in all itssplendour. Tartuffe is directed by Patrick Kerbrat. A productionby the Jean Vilar TheatreWorkshop. Friday 20th

August, 9.30pm. Théâtre de Verdure

In “Boby” country

A LAND THAT IS PROUD OF ITS

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:24 Page 6

Page 7: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

The historic centre of Agde is home to an extraordinary ancient heritage, a mazeof backstreets lined with houses and monuments constructed out of volcanicblack stone that are unique in the Languedoc. The perfect way to explore thetown centre is to stroll around the back streets and quaysides, taking in this charming and evocative location with its characteristic maritime and volcanic associations. As the visitor enters the town centre via the rue Honoré Muratet, they can alsochoose to follow the sign posted tourist circuit.

uries gone by.

La GlacièreThe underground ice‑house built between 1679 and 1681 for storingice in winter is open to visitors. Groups of 5 to 10 people maximum, sub‑ject to booking. Children under 7yrs and people with cardiac problemsare not admitted.

Meet at the venue at 3pm, 3.30pm, 4pm and 4.30pmon Tuesdays and Thursdays. €2

The Cathedral TowerGuided tour of the tower of Saint‑Etienne Cathedral with a panoramic view ofthe city on the banks of Hérault. 5 people maximum, subject to booking. Childrenunder 12 yrs and people with cardiac problems are not admitted.

Sets off from the Tourist Office. 10am and 11am, every Wednesday. €5

The historic town centreWalk through the back streets of the black stone town of Agde, with a guide.Minimum of 5 people. Guided tours for groups subject to booking : in French,German and English.

Every day. Sets off from the Tourist Office. €5, €3 for 6 to 12 yr olds.

nd villages

VII

TS RICH HISTORY

Located in the heart of the historic town, the 26 rooms of the MuséeAgathois, a museum ofpopular arts and tradi-tions, retrace life in theregion from AncientTimes to nowadays.Every day from June to September : 9.30am - 6.30pm. €4.70 ; €3.60 Senior Citizens ; €1.80 for 11 to 18 yr olds, free for children. Audio-guide supplement : €2 :5 rue de la Fraternité.Tel. 04 67 94 82 51

The Jules Baudou Museum

Saint-SeverchurchGuided tour of around 15 min.Meet at the venue 10am to12pm every Thursday ‑ Free.

Agde, St-Etienne Cathedral.Tourist Office : 04 67 62 91 99.Guides : 04 67 94 27 40.

Listen to…Audio-guided walks “the oldest area of Agde”,“Saint-André church”, “Saint-Sever church”, “theConsul’s House”: for listening to or downloading(mp3 files) at “http://www.capagde.com”

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to E

ric

Jouv

e

Pho

to P

ierr

e R

amond

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:24 Page 7

Page 8: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Seen from the sky, a concentric pattern of buildingsbecomes evident.

Three villages are particularly remarkable for their concentric street design, also referred to ascirculade : Caux, Nézignan l'Evêque and Saint‑Pons‑de‑Mauchiens. The term “circulade” refersto a type of fortified urban development that appeared mainly in the Languedoc‑Roussillonarea in the Middle Ages. The dwellings are arranged in concentric circles around a central pro‑tective edifice : either a fortified château or a church. This way, each circle of houses serves

as an extra line of defence to either halt or hold up an attacker.

More information from the association des villages circulaires : www.circulades.com

Circulade villagesThe village of Caux encircles the church of Saint-Gervais Saint-Protais with its numerous 15th and 17th century houses.From the church tower you can admire the basalt plateau which surrounds the village.Open to visitors on Thursday 1st

and 22nd July and 12th August at 10am. Meet in front of the Mairie.

Caux

The village retains vestiges of the medieval fortification,many ancient houses and an interesting Romanchurch altered in the 14th century. In the 19th centurya circle of new buildings connected with the winegrowing industry sprang up around the original village centre. Open to visitors on Thursday 8th and 29th July and 19th August at 10am. Meet in front of the Mairie.Contact 04 67 98 77 66 or 04 67 98 70 72

Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens

MEDIEVAL ARCHITECTURE

Men and stones,VIII

Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens.

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:24 Page 8

Page 9: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Agde and Pézenas exhibit the worksof designers and craftsmen.

In Agde, female beauty is everywhere, fromthe Greek goddess Agathé, who gave the townits name, to the remarkable costumes of theBelles Agathoises. Dedicated to fashion designand dubbed the Ville Métiers dʼArt (town ofartists), the Black Pearl of the Mediterraneanproudly shows off its talented designers. Withits own show room in Cap dʼAgde, which offersa very chic range of swim wear, it presentsstunning cat walk shows and extraordinaryexhibitions in its Galerie de la Perle Noire inthe centre of the town.

In Pézenas, promotion of artisanal tech‑niques and expertise was particularly prominentin the 1960s, on the initiative of journeymen,master craftsmen and meilleurs ouvriers ofFrance.The wealth of Pézenas lies in the diver‑sity of its body of professionals specialising inthe theatrical arts and the restoration of localcultural heritage. An exhibition in the Maisondes Métiers d'Art de Pézenas from 2nd of Julyto 3rd of October is devoted to the contem‑porary ceramic design of the region.

La Maison des Métiers d’Art de Pézenas : 6, place Gambetta Tel. 04 67 98 16 12

La Galerie de la Perle Noire : 20, rue Jean Roger Tel. 04 67 26 94 14

Information : www.metiersdart.cahm.net

Montagnac

The Association for the Protection of LocalHeritage offers visits to the village, theabbey church and organs, from 5pm to 7pm.Every Wednesday from 7th July to 4tth August.

Saint-Thibéry

The centre of the village and its back streetsare home to authentic medieval architecture.A history that can be explored every Tuesday.Meet at 6 pm in front of the church of Saint Jean-Baptiste. Contact 04 67 21 76 25

Vias, a history worth exploring …

Townsof the artists

EXPERTISE

Office de Tourisme de ViasAvenue de la Méditerranée34450 ViasTel. 04 67 21 76 25www.ot-vias.comCourriel : [email protected]

With the beginning of fairs at the end of the13th century, Montagnac became an importanteconomic centre. The town was transformed,and rich merchants built imposing residencesthere in the 14th and 15th centuries. The townwas a protestant stronghold in the 16th

and 17th centuries and boasts some superbtown houses.Open to visitors on Thursdays 15th July, and 5th and 26th August at 10am. Meet in front of the Tourist Office.

IX

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to H

enri

Com

te

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:25 Page 9

Page 10: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Course

Imagined by Ronald FREAM, the Golf of the Cap d'Agde in the technical and varied plan invites you in thesports challenge. Having admired the méditerranée, Canigou snowy and chained some doglegs, the amenhook gets closer, of the hole N°6 to the hole N°9, the obstacles will impress the most fragile swings ! On thereturn, the hole N°13 one by 3 in the green lined with palm trees, will demonstrate you that several timesthere is more sand than green ! Then the hole N°15, one by 5 of the 555 meters will test severely your long

knocks... Cap d'Agde an intense moment of Golf, Theater of the qualifications of the ALPS Tour.

Magnificent greens,X

In front of the sea, of the heart of sublime one Mediterranean landscape, The Golf of the Cap d'Agde is an invitation in the sports challenge. Ronald FREAM the talented American architect, shaped a course of exception. A remarkable plan, magnificent wavy greens, water obstacles and sensibly positioned bunkers. This challenge will lead you to the pleasure. Opened 365 days / year, the Golf of the Cap d'Agde also proposes you : 1 course 9 holescompact in the atmosphere afforested, 36 posts(post offices) of practice among which 16 flatware, 1 putting green and 1 green of approach.

LEASURE

Office de Tourisme du Cap d’AgdeBulle d'Accueil - B.P 54434503 Le Cap d'Agde CedexTel. 04 67 01 04 [email protected]

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

Le Cap d’Agde : Internation

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:25 Page 10

Page 11: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

The pro Shop proposes you all year long a range of clothes, shoes, bags and qualityaccessories.

The Clubhouse

The restaurant the Pleiad welcomes you allyear long, to relax you around a glass, lunch or dinner.

The Restaurant

The Palmyra Golf Hôtel ****, a place of charm in the Mediterranean spirit. 33 rooms(chambers) with a view of the Golf.Your stay will be placed under the sign ofthe big spaces, the pleasure, the relaxationand the Golf in a real haven of peace. Swimming pools and beauty salon will decorate your stay and in some steps, the magnificent fine sand beaches of the Cap d'Agde.

The hotel

By the road : highway A9, heat exchanger(interchange) Agde Pézenas (34) directionCap d'Agde, in the entry of the Cap d'Agdedirection beach Richelieu and Rochelongue.

By air : airports Béziers-Agde - Vias (15km) Montpelier Mediterranean (60km)

By the train : SNCF (French National Railway Compagny) of Agde (15km)

Golf International du Cap d’Agde4, avenue des Alizés 34300 le Cap d’Agde, FranceTel. +33 (0)4 67 26 54 40 Fax : +33 (0)4 67 26 97 [email protected] http://golf.ville-agde.fr

ACCESS

Number of holes : 18 / Par : 72 Distance : 6286 meters / Slope : 137(marks white man) / SS : 74

Number of holes : 9 / Par : 27 Distance : 730 meters

XI

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to O

T C

ap d

’Ag

de

: P

. R

amond

onal Golf

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:25 Page 11

Page 12: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Wines,XII

The Hérault Médi

AN AUTHENTIC VINEYARD

Appellations “A la carte” A wide range of grape varieties to please all palates

The territory of the Agglomé-ration includes almost 6,000hectares of vines with Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée(AOC) classification. It is famousfor two appellations : la Clairette and les Coteaux du Languedoc. In this last appellation, three terroirs are identified : Picpoul de Pinet, terroir de Pézenasand the Grès de Montpellier.

Grape varieties Clairette d’Adissan and Picpoul

de Pinet are produced from single grape varieties,the white Clairette grape and the white Piquepoulgrape. The first is produced in the communes of Adissan and Nizas and the second in the communesof Pinet, Pomerols, Castelnau de Guers, Florensacand Montagnac.The AOC coteaux du Languedoc-Pézenas and Grèsde Montpellier wines, on the other hand, are madefrom different grape varieties. Syrah, Mourvèdre,Carignan, Cinsault and Grenache for the red wines,Marsanne, Roussanne, Rolle, Grenache, Terret andBourboulenc for the white wines. These blendedwines are produced for the terroir of Pézenas in thecommunes of Caux, Lézignan la Cèbe, Nizas and Pézenas.The production of the Grès de Montpellierin the communes of Montagnac and Saint-Pons de Mauchiens remains more marginal.

Expertise

The territory of the Communauté dʼAgglomération Hérault Méditerranée is situatedin the heart of the largest wine growing region in the world in terms of land areaand volume of production. Wine making is the second most important industry inthe region after tourism. For this reason the Agglomération has relaunched the activities of the association “la Route des Vignerons et des Pêcheurs” (the wine

growers and fishermenʼs route). This association, under the leadership of Pierre Quinonéro,the owner of the domaine de la Garance estate at Caux, brings together almost 70 wineproducers from the whole of the region. With an overall budget of €70,000, which includeda €30,000 subsidy from the Agglomération, “the route” has bought itself a stand, designedto resemble a wine press, so that it can be identified during inter‑communal events. This working tool also enables it to attend international business fairs. Its website providesa means for promoting the different wine cellars and estates, just like the caveau de vente(wine shop) that it has opened in Caux.

Using fairs to good advantageThe Route des Vignerons has taken concrete action in the area of marketing, by participatingin the Vinisud fair in Montpellierin 2006 and 2008 and the Prowein fair in Dusseldorf in2007, 2008 and 2009. “By uni‑ting, the costs are shared. Theregistration cost for these fairscomes to €500 per participant"confides Pierre Quinonéro. “Ourstrength is in being able to offerimporters a full range of wines,whether it be in volume or inquality, with products rangingfrom €3 to €20 in price.”

Statistics[ The land area of the Hérault Méditerranée region : 371 km²[ Area of land under cultivation* : 196 km²,

68 % of which is planted with vines and 20 % of which is arable land

[ 6 caves coopératives[ Around 120 independent caves[ More than 9 million bottles produced per year[ 1.2 million hectolitres of wine are produced every year * sources : Ministerial figures from the agricultural survey for the year 2000

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:30 Page 12

Page 13: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

XIII

iterranée, a land of winesA quality based initiative In order to promote all aspects of this rich heritage, the Agglomération is placinga great emphasis on wine tourism. The aim is to offer visitors authentic holidaysthat include accommodation, activities based on the cultivation of the vine andwine making, tastings, visits to remarkable local heritage sites and an introductionto the local gastronomy.

This initiative requires the participation of producers who want to promote theirexpertise and profit from direct or indirect income from this activity. Pierre Quinonéro believes in it. He has also just been awarded the quality labels“Qualité Hérault” and “Sud de France” for his cellars. For “nothing is possible withoutoffering hospitality of a high quality.” An initiative which he would like to share andextend to all the wine cellars on the Route.

[ La Clairette du Languedoc, Clairette d’AdissanThese wines can be served young or “rancios” (3 yrs ageing), dry or sweet. They can be enjoyed as an aperitif, with foie gras or with dessert.

[ Coteaux du Languedoc - Picpoul de PinetIts calcareous terroir, strongly influenced by its proximity tothe sea, endows it with citrus and floral aromas. This whitewine marries exceptionally well with shellfish and fish.

[ Coteaux du Languedoc - “Terroir de Pézenas”The grapes of this appellation come from plots identified by the producers and approved by the National Institute forOrigin and Quality. This results in grand cru wines, with redsthat are excellent accompaniments for meat and cheese.

From starter to dessert...

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to L

aure

nt

Rom

ero

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:25 Page 13

Page 14: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Terroir,XIV

A partner in the wine growing industry

In addition to supportingthe professionals inpromoting and marke-ting their products, the Agglomération isgreatly expanding itsevents policy with, inparticular, the launchin June of VINOCAPon the quayside inCap d’Agde. The aimof this festival ismake the region a major destinationfor lovers of Medi-terranean wines in the years ahead.

Throughout thissummer it hasbeen participatingin les ESTIVALESin Pézenas, promoting the local grand cru winesin a musical atmosphere on the cours Jean-Jaurès.

These two events are based on a double concept :tasting and sales, and the organisation of high quality events.

VINOCAP, and les ESTIVALES : shop windows for our wines

Local heritageThe golden age of the vineengraved in the stones.A village architecture shapedby the wine growing industryIn the 19th century, with the boom in the wine growing trade, the urban fabricof the villages grew with the appea‑rance of the wine growersʼ houses, themaisons vigneronnes. The large numberof these buildings is a reminder thatwine growing was the main economicactivity in the Bas Languedoc region. In partnership with the Regional Departmentfor Cultural Affairs, the Agglomération has made an inventory of these buildings inthe communes of Saint Thibéry and Montagnac.

This work has brought to light several dominant characteristics of this architecturecommon to the region : the high fronted buildings that line the street were multi‑purpose, fulfilling several functions under the same roof. On the ground floor was thefront door, with the store room to the side. This area was used to store agriculturalmachinery and in earlier times the harness equipment. The living accommodation,most often consisting only of a large room, occupied the first floor. The roof space orattic at the top of the building was used for storage. Pulleys were fixed to the sidewalls, bearing witness to the agricultural purpose of the building.

Outside the villages in the country‑side, châteaux built in the neo‑classical style can be seen, theso‑called châteaux pinardiers, lite‑rally, “wine tanker” châteaux. Withtheir characteristic slate roofs,these buildings, barely more thana century old, are testimony to thewealth of their owners. Amongstthe most spectacular in the HéraultMéditerannée region are the châteaude la Gardie at Vias, the domainede Caillan at Bessan, the châteaude Saint Martin de Grave at Aumesand the Grange des Près at Pézenas.

Setting our sights on Wine TourismIn the heart of the largest wine growing area in the world and a region dominated by the tourist industry, the Hérault Méditerranée has all that is needed to succeed as a winetourism destination.

Aware of this potential, the Communauté d’Agglomération is working on providing a clearerdefinition of the wine tourism offer together with professionals from the tourist and wine growing industries.

It is being supported in this by the leading role played by the association “la route des Vigneronset des Pêcheurs” which unites more than sixty professionals involved in the wine growing industry, the fishing industry and local food production.

Today, two main objectives have been set: to promote the spring and autumn periods in orderto extend the tourist season and to establish the identity of the region as a Mediterranean destination offering a combination of sea, wine, terroir and cultural heritage.

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

Pho

to L

aure

nt

Rom

ero

Pho

to P

ierr

e A

rnau

d

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:25 Page 14

Page 15: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Good to knowTo buy fresh fish newly unloaded on the quay, go to the avant port in Cap d’Agde. Dependent on weather conditions.

The tielle, a tart with a filling of finely chopped octopus mixed with aspicy tomato sauce, is a recipe of Italian origin brought back by thefishermen who came to settle in the coastal towns of the Mediterranean,such as Agde and Sète. Although everyone might have their own recipe,in Agde, Aimé Catanzano, along with his wife, is carrying on an expert

Neapolitan tradition that goes back four generations.“All our tielles are handmade”. I do it all myself, from start to finish. I go to thefish market every day to buy fresh fish. I buy an octopus, “bruise” it to tenderiseit, then I make the sauce which I am going to cook it in. I make the pastry myselfand cook them with meticulous care...”We know no more about his secret methods... Because he takes such great care

in producing his tarts, Aimé Catanzano only makes around thirty every day.

All day every Tuesday, a displayand sale by the artisan producersof the Parc Régional du Haut-Languedoc and the Pays d'Agde.Tuesdays 6th, 13th and 27thJulyTuesdays 3rd, 17th, 24th

and 31st August, Tuesdays 7th, 14th and 21st September.

Place du Barbecue 34300, Cap d'Agde

Local produce fairs

Le Grau d’Agde, at the mouthof the River Hérault, is one ofthe six main fishing ports on theFrench Mediterranean coast. Everyyear Agde fishermen unload some 2,000tons of fish here, brought back by elevenbottom trawlers, a pelagic trawler, a dozenor so small deep sea fishing boats, aroundthirty small inshore fishing boats and threetuna seiners.The main species sold at the fish market aremonkfish, octopus, hake, bream sole, squid,sea bass, red mullet and capelin. Sardines,anchovies and tuna are sold directly by thefishermen to the wholesale fishmongers. All these fish are caught and sold on thesame day and can be found in fishmongersand the fish sections of supermarkets inAgde, and also in Spain and Italy. The fishmarket is not open to the public but the ideais currently under consideration.

Gourmet regions,

The fish of the pays d’Agde

THE AUTHENTIC FISHERMAN'S TART

In Agde, the recipe for a good “tielle”remains a secret... It stays in the family !

Aimé Catanzano jealously guards his secret recipe

In the land of the “tielle”

If you would like to sample and enjoy otherauthentic seafood dishes, you should visit :la Casa Pépé in Agde.

29, rue Jean Roger - 34 300 AgdeTel. 04 67 21 17 67

XV

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to P

ierr

e R

amond

Pho

to P

ierr

e A

rnau

d

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:26 Page 15

Page 16: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Gourmet regions,XVI

The artisans of the Agde region and Pézenasoffer a high quality range of prepared dishesto suit all tastes.

The flavours of the Hérault M

SOME “MUST TRY” LOCAL SPECIALITIES....

The Hérault Méditerranée region is rich in flavours. From north to south, you can find local specialities which have made certain places famous and are also the expression of artisanaltalent and expertise.

The aim of the Estivales in Pézenas is to promotethe Languedoc Pézenas Coteaux AOC grand vinsand those of the association, la Route des vigneronset des pêcheurs of the Communauté d’AgglomérationHérault Méditerranée. They take place at the sametime as the evening markets la Nocturne des ArtisansCréateurs, every Friday evening during the summer.Visitors can sample two grand vins by buying a

tasting glass of regional winefor €3, and then leave withtheir glass and their memoriesof a moving and interestingevening. These Friday summerevenings are accompanied by musicians who play untilthe sun goes down on theCours Jean-Jaurès, the mainstreet in Pézenas, with thefocus on the products of thisregion in the South of France... Every Friday evening: tastings,activities and conviviality in anexceptional historic setting.

Pézenas : Estivales 2010 The artisan jam makers of Pézenas

Artisanal production of jams, chutneys, mustards and vinegars.Nadine has lived in Pézenas for more than 10 years, whereshe simmers in her copper cauldrons more than 100 differentrecipes redolent with fragrant spices or vinegar. In 2003, theenterprise was awarded the French gastronomic Panache

dʼOr award. Its fame spreads beyond regional boundaries.Open all year round even on Sunday. Nadine De Brandère, a great addressfor food lovers.

2, rue de la Foire à Pézenas Tel. 04 67 01 60 23 / Fax 04 67 98 24 99 - www.adena.bagnas.com

The petits pâtés of PézenasThese savoury/sweet pies were introduced in the middle of the18th century by the Indian cooks of Lord Clive, the Viceroy of India,who had come to Pézenas to take a rest. They are eaten reheated atthe beginning of a meal, are easy to transport and keep for a fort‑night in the refrigerator. The very noble confrérie du petit pâté dePézenas, based at 6, rue Four in Pézenas, is a gastronomic brother‑hood devoted to upholding the quality of this product, which holdsits annual chapter meeting on Ascension Thursday.

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:26 Page 16

Page 17: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Saturday 17th July from 7am to 8pm, Mail de Rochelongue,Cap d'Agde.Tuesday 20th July from 7am to 8pm, Place du Barbecue, Cap d’AgdeTuesday 10th Augustfrom 7am to 8pm, Place du Barbecue, Cap d’Agde.Saturday 14th Augustfrom 7am to 8pm, Mail de Rochelongue,Cap d’Agde

Cap d’Agde :The Wine Growers’ Village

XVII

Méditerranée

Florence’s honeyShrubland, lavender and all flower honeys. On sale at the Saturday market.

Florence MOUTOU Route de Nizas, PézenasTel. 04 67 98 80 51

The berlingots of PézenasSugar is formed into a stick and flavoured with variousessences (aniseed, mint, coffee, lemon...). This candyconfection keeps for months. Only one factory, theBoudet company, continues thisartisanal production.

The production site in the placeSaint Christol can be visitedfree on request every morning except Sunday.Tel. 04 67 98 16 32

The famous croustade has beenbaked in Bessan for more than100 years. The main ingredientsof this puff pastry confection,which was invented by house-wives who came to cook themat the patissier’s, are darkchocolate, lemon zest andnuts. The Ciliego family hascontinued the tradition for

The croustade de Bessan

The origins of the onions of Lézignan are lost in the mists of time, but theyare thought to have been first grown in Persia. In his Natural History,Pliny the Elder recommended this plant as good for health and long life.The cultivation of onions in Lézignan goes back to thebeginning of the 17th century. The sweet onion is sown in autumn and picked at the beginning of summer. The Lézignan la Cèbe onion can be recognised by its flatand elongated shape and can reach two kilogrammes inweight. In order to reap the many benefits of this sweetonion, it should be eaten raw in salads.

Lézignan la Cèbe sweet onions

Guy Bouzigues has won many European medals for his Fine de Picpoul de Pinet chocolates. This master chocolatier has created a range of chocolates using figs, olives and Picpoul de Pinet wine.Guy Bouzigues chocolaterie, rue basse, Pomerols. Tel. 04 67 77 04 99

The chocolate maker of Pomérols

many generations. Also worth samplingare soupirs, a Bessan speciality based on meringue. Pâtisserie Ciliegio, 2 rue des caves. Tel. 04 67 77 43 44

At the Caillan estate, lovers of fresh produce grown according to sustainable agricultural methods can come and pick their own fruitand vegetables. A great time for all the family ! Equipped with secateursand wheelbarrows provided by the estate, everyone can pick their ownfruit and vegetables in the orchards and vegetable gardens at an affordableprice. Pick your own at Caillan is open every day from 9am to 7pm including Sundays and public holidays, except Thursdays, from 23rd Aprilto 29th September, and in July and August from 9am-1pm & 5pm to 8pm.

Bessan : pick your own on the Caillan estate

The “becos figos” or fig eaters, in other words the inhabitantsof Nézignan l'Evêque, are proud of their history. Since François 1st and maybe even earlier, this commune hasalways been the standard bearer for the cultivation of the fig.It has an experimental orchard and an arboretum which arecurrently home to more than 80 fig varieties. Soft and tasty,sweet or less sweet according to the maturation conditions,the amount of sun and the varieties, the fresh fig can beeaten cooked or raw, in savoury dishes as an accompanimentto meat, or sweet in desserts.

The Nézignan Evêque fig

Stéphane Strobl is a dedicated artisanwho every day invents new flavours bycombining vegetables, fruit and flowersin a deliciously surprising way. He offers a range of coulis, preservesand soups... Also worth sampling, hisvegetable crisps and piétinade spreads.The composition of these will revolutioniseaperitif time : cranberry beans, rosebuds, olive oil and white wine arethe ingredients that go to make his piétinade rose. His piétinades come in a choice of five colours that will wakeup your taste buds.

Products on www.ruetraversette.comTel. 04 67 98 71 02 / 06 64 86 28 81

The art of preserving in Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens

Office de Tourisme Pézenas Val d’HéraultPl. des Etats du Languedoc - BP 1034120 PézenasTel. 04 67 98 36 [email protected]

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to P

ierr

e R

amond

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:26 Page 17

Page 18: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

Many villages have as an emblem or symbol a totem animal that is oftenpresented to the public in a theatrical fashion during local celebrations.They can symbolise virtue, courage, strength, cunning, goodness or evil.Within the region of the Agglomération, seven animals are particularlywell known...

During the summer season, the water joustersrule supreme over the Thau basin ! The principleof this ancient discipline can be summarised asa head to head encounter between two joustersperched on a wooden plank called a tintaine,who try to topple their opponent with the aid ofa lance which they try to fix into their opponent’spavois (a sort of wooden shield).To make things more complicated, the joustersare perched on a boat propelled by a team of10 rowers.The important thing is to have good sea legs !It was in Agde that the first water jousts in theLanguedoc were organised on the occasion ofthe arrival of the Duc de Montmorency. Indeed,the oldest document relating to these jousts is

a deliberation of the Agde authorities dated thelast day in May, 1601. They were organised onspecial occasions and gave rise to very largepublic celebrations, with music, the sound oftrumpets, drums and oboes. And that’s how thejousts are reminiscent of the jousting tournamentson horseback of the Middle Ages. Nowadays, the jousters, referred to as “chevaliersde la tintaine” still compete in this singular formof combat in their red and blue boats.This veritable institution is rooted in local history,with the high point, the Trophée du Languedoc,taking place on the first Sunday in August onthe Hérault River right next to the Cathedral,when the best jousters in the region compete.

Folklore and traditions,XVIII

The history and le

A long time ago, the lord in the châ‑teau had some enormous dogswhich he allowed to roam free to

guard his property. One night,the lord came backlate and was at‑tacked by them.

His own dogs devou‑red him ! Before he died, thelord of Mauchiens cried outin Occitan “mali canos”,“bad dogs”. Today the me‑mory of the lordʼs two dogsis preserved in the coat ofarms of the commune.

In ancient times,the pays dʼAgde was ruled by Queen Agathé whowas praised by her subjects for her beauty andintelligence. Just imagine, one day, the Greek god Dionysus disembarked on the Agde coast, accompanied by his cortege of priestesses : theMenades ! Dionysus fell in love with Agathé andmarried her. But the day after the wedding, Dionysus disappeared. Agathéʼs grief was greatuntil she saw a strange animal emerging from thewaves, a horse whose body ended in a fishʼs tail :it was the Cheval Marin (sea horse), a gift fromDionysus. The animal declared that it had beengiven a mission : to bring prosperity and happi‑ness once again to the people of Agde. Then, ittook Queen Agathé on a fantastic voyage aroundthe Mediterranean...

Le cheval marin d’Agde

Red boat or blue boat?The grand, water jousting tournaments, another aspect of tradition.

During i ts Carniva l , Pézenas brings out itspoula in ( foa l ) . Ninemen are hidden insidethis enormous animalwhich is led by a tenthman through the town.In 1226, according tolegend, Louis VIII madea stop in Pézenas. Ashis favourite mare was

ill, he had to leave her behind. During his absence,the villagers took care of the animal. When theking returned, the mare had recovered and hadeven given birth to a foal. To say thank you, themonarch offered a giant wooden foal to the village, so that the people could exhibit it in alltheir celebrations as a symbol of the friendshipthat had been cemented with the new power inthe Languedoc. The Poulain has been recognisedas an immaterial world heritage by UNESCO.

Le poulain de Pézenas

Le chien de Saint Pons

[ A g d e [ A d i s s a n [ A u m e s [ B e s s a n [ C a s t e l n a u - d e - G u e r s [ C a u x [ C a z o u l s - d ’ H é r a u l t [ F l o r e n s a c [ L é z i g n a n - l a - C è b e

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:26 Page 18

Page 19: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

The âne, or donkey, appears in August duringthe feast of Saint‑Laurent and dances in thestreets. Its dance is associated with an oral tra‑dition. There are many contradictory stories,but the old inhabitants of Bessan talk about adonkey market and a custom of decorating themost beautiful donkey and leading it throughthe streets of the village. One year, it escapedand hid in a church. It was to commemoratethis event that the villagers decided to make awooden donkey, and make it dance along streetsas far as the church.

L’âne de Bessan

Lo Chivalet is a tradition which dates backto the 16th century and which still plays apart in celebratory events in Florensac. Itall began in 1565. The legend tells thatCharles IX, accompanied by his motherCatherine de Medici, stopped in Florensacto eat and sleep during a visit to the Lan‑guedoc. The king offered his horse as athank you to his hosts. The village worthieswanted to immortalise the event and hada wooden horse built to take part in villagecelebrations. The animal has survivedever since and is now a symbol of the vil‑lageʼs identity, and proudly honoured bythe inhabitants of Florensac.

Le cheval de Florensac

On the occasion of the Carnival, the chenille (caterpillar) goes around the streets of the village. Also nicknamedle porquet, it symbolises the maggot which devours the leaves of the vine and ruins wine harvests. Since1970, the locals have led out this animal, which consists of a long wooden structure covered with a greencloth, to drive away the misfortunes that beset wine growers.

La chenille de Pinet

Around 1200, the wife of the consul ofMontagnac suffered from an incurableillness. One day a man arrived dressedin rags and accompanied by a whitegoat. The great good humour ofthis man soon intrigued the localswho asked what the reason for hischeerfulness was. The man confidedhis secret : the milk from the goatwas magic and could cure every‑thing. The consul of Montagnacpromised the tramp a huge rewardif he managed to cure his wife. He succeeded !

La chèvre de Montagnac

XIX

egends of the totem animals

[ M o n t a g n a c [ N é z i g n a n - l ’ E v ê q u e [ N i za s [ P é z e n a s [ P i n e t [ P o m é r o l s [ P o r t i r a g n e s [ S a i n t - P o n s - d e - M a u c h i e n s [ S a i n t - T h i b é r y [ V i a s

Pho

to J

-C M

eaux

soone

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:26 Page 19

Page 20: VISIT .. Un magazine en langue anglaise pour la communauté d'agglomération Hérault Méditerranée

THE INDEPENDENT_Mise en page 1 28/10/2010 10:26 Page 20