History and Culture
Pre History | History | Towns & Villages | Eating | Museums & Regional Products
Pre historic cave art in the world
renowned caves around Tarscon-sur-Ariège
Pre History
The caves of the Ariège, first frequented by the Magdalenian civilisation around 14,000 years ago are internationally recognised as having some of the finest examples of paleolithic paintings and artifacts anywhere in the world. Four main sites are clustered around Tarascon-sur-Ariège, with the Grotte de Niaux being the most celebrated. A torch lit guided visit to the cave penetrates almost 1 km into the vast galleries to reveal the famous drawings of Bison and horses. One can only imagine the emotions and motivations of those who came here to leave their mark.
The Grotte de Bédeilhac in our village tells a similar story. The artwork is perhaps not as powerful as that of Niaux but it comes in a wider variety of styles including mud reliefs and modelled stalagmites. The cave itself is a wonder to behold and was used as an aircraft factory in the second world war by the French, and then by the Germans during the occupation.
In contrast to the caves at Bédeilhac and Niaux which are thought perhaps to have been places of worship and ceremony only, the Grotte de la Vache close to Niaux has revealed remains of 10,000 years of habitation from around 12,000 BC up to the bronze age. A huge array of artifacts has been excavated and are on display, making for a fascinating walk through history.
Ruins of Miglos castle
History
The history of the Cathars is one of Knights and Lords, Castles, Crusades, Inquisitions and Martyrdom with a good few burnings at the stake thrown in for good measure. The ruined castle at Montsegur was the site of the final defeat of the Cathars in 1244 after a siege of almost a year. The castle is well worth a visit for its position and the sense of history, although less so for the castle itself, little of which remains in its original form.
The castle at Roquefixade is similarly ruined but is well worth the 20 minute climb purely for the views. The Ariègeoises take great pride in their Cathar heritage and there are many tourist attractions celebrating the history.
Towns and Villages
Tarascon-sur-Ariège during the bi-annual agricultural fair
Tarascon-sur-Ariège, our nearest town, about 5 minutes away is a good sized town with several supermarkets and a number of restaurants and bars. Occupying a basin at the convergence of 5 valleys and with the river Ariège flowing through, the wooded peaks surrounding the town give it a real mountain feel. The old town has remnants of the medieval walls and towers and is well worth a visit. Market day is Saturday with the usual array of regional produce on offer. A popular agricultural fair is held twice a year timed to coincide with the 'Transhumance' (moving of the flocks to pasture), and the annual music festival is always popular.
Foix, about 20 minutes drive north of Tarascon, is the departmental capital of the Ariège and has plenty to do and see. The biggest attraction is the hilltop château with its three conspicuous towers from different eras giving stunning views across the valley.
The old town has been well preserved with houses dating from the 14th century overhanging the cobbled streets. There are plenty of restaurants, cafés and bars and lively markets are held on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Eating
The Auberge de la Grotte in our village
Closest to home is the Auberge de la Grotte in Bédeilhac, a restaurant and bar gastronomique, offering a fine dining experience with an exotic menu. Not somewhere to eat every night but a must for foodies and anyone wanting a special night out, and it's less than 5 minutes walk from the house!
Le chalet, a few minutes drive or a 20 minute walk, does a great pizza and much more besides. Outside seating only, and with regular themed nights and an informal, friendly atmosphere, make for a good night out.
Other local restaurants of note include the Moulin de Langoust in Gourbit and La Table de la Ramade in Rabat les 3 Seigneurs, both offering regional home cooked food.
Tarascon sur Ariège has a number of good restaurants and take-aways offering a range of food from an American diner and several pizzerias to riverside restaurants offering local specialties.
Foix also provides some excellent options for eating and drinking.