The living landscapes of the UNESCO World Heritage
The Causses & Cévennes region, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its centuries-old Mediterranean agropastoral practices that continue today. Traditional agropastoralism and transhumance (nomadic livestock herding) are an integral part of the present-day life in the mountains of the Cévennes and on the plains of the Causses. Ancestral activities such as herding, wild plant, berry and mushroom foraging, and bee keeping, are not only kept alive by the local population but are also passed down to future generations.
In 1985, the Causses & Cévennes region was recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its commitment to wildlife protection and sustainable development. This acknowledgment emphasized the connection between human activity and the evolution of the landscape. In 2011, the area was further honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underlining its importance in preserving these living, evolving landscapes.
The triumph of the Causses & Cévennes – Transhumance is now recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO!
This important decision led to a plan to preserve nomadic herding practices and traditions. The “Entente des Causses et des Cévennes” is particularly proud of this decision, as it will greatly help identify and protect natural pastoral surfaces as well as the local traditions of farmers and shepherds.
In 2023, France, together with Albania, Andorra, Croatia, Luxembourg, Romania, and Spain have joined the ranks of Italy, Greece and Austria, on UNESCO’s representative list of countries where traditional transhumance is still practiced today!
A network of ambassadors
The Causses & Cévennes ambassadors network brings together dedicated individuals in tourism and agriculture, uniting them to promote and represent the region.
This network helps raise public awareness of the deep connection between property managers and the land. Why not meet the ambassadors of our territory? They are eager to share with you their love and knowledge of the land and its traditions.
Find out more at : www.causses-et-cevennes.fr
