| Salies de Béarn, France |
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Salies de Béarn circa 1926
Salies de Béarn circa 1920's
Salies de Béarn circa 1920's
Salies de Béarn circa 1929
| 2006 |
| 2006 |
| 2006 |
The first evidence of human activity in and around Salies de Béarn was more
than 4000 years ago. During these early years, the people used the salt of the
Saleys to preserve their food during difficult times; however, there is no data
supporting commercial activity until the Iron Age. During this age, the local
pottery was being exported to the wine making regions of Italy. The
than 4000 years ago. During these early years, the people used the salt of the
Saleys to preserve their food during difficult times; however, there is no data
supporting commercial activity until the Iron Age. During this age, the local
pottery was being exported to the wine making regions of Italy. The
commercialization of the salt from the Saleys
can be traced to around 89 B.C. during
Roman occupation. Although there was lots
of activity of early civilization in the immediate
area, the city that now exists wasn't
established until the Middle Ages. It's first
appearance on a map was in 1022 A.D.
There's a local legend that describes how
the city came to be, in its present location.
After being injured by some hunters, a wild
boar took refuge in a muddy marsh.
The hunters, were unable to find the boar initially, but after some time they
stumbled across the dead boar's body. Amazingly it had been preserved and
was covered in crystallised salt. Thus, Salies owes its founding to the fate of
this boar. A fountain commemorating this story
is located in the Place du Bayaà.
Salies has come a long way since those days,
but many of the old, exotic architecture has
amazingly been preserved; many being built
in the 1600's. Salies became a thermal bath
destination in 1857, which continues to present
day. There is also a casino that was built in
1893.
Today, Salies de Béarn is a vibrant city rich in
tradition. There are many walking trails/routes
in and around the village; some difficult and
some not. Every Thursday morning there is a
local market in the Place du Bayaà. You will also find many bakeries,
restaurants and cafés throughout the village, all offering different fare (good
food and, of course, good wine). There is also a public swimming pool, golf
course, miniature golf, and shopping; all within walking distance! We also host
a yearly Salt Festival the 2nd weekend of September where the crowds have
been known to reach 10-12,000!
There's no doubt in my mind that you'll enjoy your stay in Le Petit Bijou and
Salies de Béarn. Come fall in love with it, as we did.
The Boar's Commemorative
Fountain
Fountain
| Our Story |