In Arles (Bouches-du-Rhône), a parade to glorify the herdsmen and Camargue culture

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The sound of hooves echoes in the streets of Arles (Bouches-du-Rhône). Proud, they parade to celebrate Camargue traditions in front of a wondrous audience. “It’s very beautiful, I really like it“, exclaims a passerby. In traditional dress, the herdsmen parade on their faithful steeds. “A herdsman is someone who takes care of the bulls. These are wild bulls that can only be handled on horseback“, we whisper from the procession.

They left their manade to celebrate their brotherhood: “The brotherhood has existed for 1500 years. It has been going on for 500 years. It’s the work of the animals, it’s the work of our land.“At their side, like Amazons: the Arlesiennes. When they are not on horseback, they stroll through the streets, adorned in their most beautiful finery. Enough to delight the tourists: “I didn’t know, I come from the Paris region and I don’t regret coming because it’s magnificent.”

Traditional outfits continue with the youngest. A young woman details: “Here, there is lace, added to a very delicate and fine fabric.“Another continues: “We often choose the fabric and then generally sew it ourselves. It’s a great source of pride.” “There is almost never the same dress twice. I don’t know how they manage that, but considering the numbers, it’s remarkable.“, remarks a man in the audience.

The other star of this festival is him: the Camargue horse, the companion of the herdsmen. Here, we learn to ride it from a very young age. They are blessed during a traditional ceremony, before celebrating Saint George, by the patron saint of the herdsmen during a mass in Provençal. To the sound of galoubets, small flutes, and tambourines, the riders gather on the town hall square. And in the center of attention, her majesty, the Queen of Arles. Elected every three years, she is the ambassador of Provencal culture: “Our queen embodies all the beauty of our city, from the Venus of Arles that we revere to the magnificent Arlesiennes.” Amélie Laugier, 25th Queen of Arles, is flattered: “We give three years of our lives to the service of this culture and these are truly compliments that touch us.“

The party continues in the arenas with riders balancing on their horses. A true feat. “Riding sidesaddle and being able to do these dressage figures is magnificent, impressive.“, rejoices a woman in the stands. Then, it’s time for the traditional Camargue race and the young razors ready to challenge the bull, without ever hurting it.

Traditions celebrated every year and which continue from generation to generation.