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Camargue Flora, fauna and wildlife are among the main attractions in the ecologically rich region of Camargue, France. A delta of the Rhone, it is hot and humid and buzzes with the sound of fecundity. Its principle keepers are Frances flatland cowboys, known to the local dialect as the Guardians, who see their herds graze over an expanse of land that seems to be endless. Tourists bring your binoculars, and cameras. The pink flamingos in the Camargue flock here in their entire creamy white and rosy splendor, something that will steal your breath away if witnessed in person.
Boating through the innumerable tributaries of the delta is nothing less than an incredible experience, as native species of fowl fly by in all their colorful regalia. Hire a boat and a local guide to show you the best places, and remember to wear your insect repellant!
Among the man-made wonders of Camargue is the Chiesa Fortezza, a towering tan-stoned fortress evoking images of mail-clad warriors and colorful flags of respective duchies peaking out from the din of war. Saint Mary of the Sea Cathedral is a fascinating site to see in Camargue because it was, effectively, a Catholic outpost amidst a populace highly steeped in the native folklore of witchcraft and superstition. Indeed, to this very day the cowboys – Guardians – place cow horns above their huts in order to ward off the evil spirits that whisper throughout the flatland at night.
The soft-spoken nature of the Guardians is misleading. The average tourist will not be able to extract much from conversation with them. Yet they hold more courage and mystery than could ever be imagined – these men rear the bulls that are then sent down to Madrid, Seville and other championship bullfighting rings.
Catholicism, as it tended to do everywhere, had its way of incorporating peoples’ myths and superstitions in order to bring the richness of both sets of beliefs into the highly folkloric culture of Camargue. In hotels and rental apartments you may find a cross hanging on the wall. Leave it up, if you like. In fact, you might like to bring a pair of bullhorns along as well! |
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