Mas de Méjanes, Protected agricultural estate in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, France
Mas de Mejanes is a protected agricultural estate with a prominent stone tower and multiple buildings dedicated to farming operations, including rice cultivation and livestock management. The property also features an arena where traditional activities take place and houses various structures that reflect the working life of this rural Camargue setting.
The estate originated in the 13th century under Templar control, who used its tower as a strategic watchtower linking Arles to the surrounding region. In the 20th century, a prominent businessman acquired and transformed it into a center dedicated to preserving local traditions and promoting sustainable farming practices.
The estate maintains living traditions of the Camargue through regular events and demonstrations that showcase local horsemanship practices and historical activities tied to the region. These gatherings allow visitors to experience how such customs continue to shape daily life and community identity here.
The estate offers guided tours with multiple ways to explore the grounds, including a small train, walking paths, and horseback riding trails. Plan to visit during warmer months when most activities occur and the grounds are most enjoyable for outdoor exploration.
The property became a center for researching and documenting regional ways of life rather than operating solely as a working farm. This focus on cultural preservation and study transformed it into a place where visitors can learn how people lived and worked in this landscape over time.
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