Cyril Féraud invited us to a new episode of “La Carte aux trésors” on Wednesday, August 21, to discover the treasures of the Pyrénées Méditerranée!
Between sea and mountains, the two candidates traveled an area from Elne in the north to the Spanish border in the south, passing through Argelès-sur-Mer, Port-Vendres and Cerbère. Their adventure led them to discover the Albères massif and its medieval defense system, in the footsteps of a remarkable woman, and at sea for an incredible Compass Rose.
Want to experience it? Then follow our five-step roadmap!
The “Treasure Map” adventure begins here…
The Albères signal towers
The Albères massif is home to several medieval signal towers, the most famous of which are the Tower of the Massane offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and the hinterland, as well as the Madeloc Tower which dominates the Côte Vermeille.
These towers were part of a defensive system developed in the Middle Ages to protect the border between the Kingdom of Majorca and the Crown of Aragon. They allowed light or smoke signals to be transmitted quickly in case of danger.
These signals, called “farons” or “faraons”, were visible from the surrounding valleys and plains.
La Laroque-des-Albères tower, charming village at the foot of the massif, was part of the Roussillon signal tower system. From the castle belvedere, located at 121 m, enjoy an exceptional 360° panorama of the Pyrenees, the plain and the Mediterranean!
In search of the border marker between France and Spain
The terminals 601 and 601bis à Cerbère are part of the 602 boundary stones and crosses that demarcate the Franco-Spanish border. They therefore represent the last easily accessible land markers before it reaches the Mediterranean Sea.
These markers were put in place following the Treaty of the Pyrenees of 1659 and the Treaty of Bayonne of 1856 which established the current border line.
In the footsteps of a remarkable woman
La Swiss maternity byElne is a poignant symbol of humanity and solidarity in times of war. Founded in 1939 by Elisabeth Eidenbenz, a young Swiss nurse, this maternity hospital offered refuge and medical care to hundreds of exiled women fleeing the Spanish Civil War. Her fight will allow the birth of 595 children, of mothers of various nationalities and faiths, between 1939 and 1944.
At the initiative of a few grateful families, the children named Elna or Nael are invited every year to ritualize a tribute and a memory.
The Swiss Maternity Hospital, classified as a Historic Monument in 2013, is included in the European circuits of XNUMXth century memory.
In pursuit of the Wind Rose
In the adventure of “The Treasure Map”, the search for the Compass Rose is a crucial and exciting moment. For this special edition, the candidates had to take on an unusual challenge by leaving the air to venture out to sea.
Instead of flying over the landscape in a helicopter, participants took part in a water race in the Paulilles Bay looking for an emblematic element of local heritage: the Catalan boat. This traditional boat, once used along the Mediterranean coast for fishing, was at the heart of the final enigma.
The Bay of Paulilles, surrounded by reddish rocky cliffs, offers a contrasting landscape between “Mar i munt”, sea and mountain in Catalan. This listed site is considered as one of the most beautiful jewels of the Mediterranean and houses the remains of Alfred Nobel's old dynamite factory.
Today, the site offers beaches for swimming and water activities, as well as landscaped walking trails, including the splendid Coastal path.
Discover the exhibition on its industrial history at the Maison du site and theCatalan boat restoration workshop.
In search of treasure
The final test of the Treasure Map took place at Venetian Park, located in the heart of the seaside resort of Argelès-sur-Mer, in the center of the beach. This main beach in the village offers long stretches of golden sand, ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts.
It attracts a vibrant mix of tourists and locals, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere.
Stroll along the coastline on a promenade and explore the Allée des Pins, where you can shop in the many shops. Also take the opportunity to eat, with a multitude of choices at your disposal!
Do you prefer places closer to nature?
Do not miss the visit of the Mas Larrieu, a natural reserve located north of the resort. This protected site offers a striking contrast to the bustle of the beach center. Here you can explore unspoiled landscapes, observe a rich biodiversity and enjoy the tranquility of the place. Mas Larrieu is perfect for lovers of observing local flora and fauna.
Themes
