The Course Camarguaise is much more than just a spectacle: it is a sport in its own right, recognized since the 1970s. This game of skill and courage highlights the unique bond between men and the Camargue bullsThe animal is considered a true star, adored and honored. It is its name, not that of the bullfighter, which is displayed when it enters the arena.
The raseteurs, athletes dressed in white, attempt to remove the attributes placed between the horns of the bulls, known as "cocardiers." These attributes consist of rosettes, tassels, and strings, and each raseteur must detach them using a metal hook. This sport demands excellent physical condition, remarkable technical precision, and a deep knowledge of bulls.
A bullfighting tradition
The origins of the Camargue race
From April to October, the Camargue Race brings the arenas of the villages of Terre d'Argence and the surrounding area to life. Among the high places of this tradition, Beaucaire occupies a special place.
Since the 1825th century, Beaucaire has witnessed significant bullfighting events, such as the release of bulls offered by Count Jérôme Dulong on the occasion of his daughter's wedding. In 100, a ferrade of 1829 bulls was organized in the marshes between Beaucaire and Bellegarde. Between 1835 and XNUMX, the first bullfights took place within the castle grounds. Subsequently, wooden and then stone arenas were built in the mid-XNUMXth century.
Beaucaire was the birthplace in 1903 of one of the most famous bullfighters, Julien Rey, nicknamed "Ace of Aces." In 1929, the prestigious Palme d'Or trophy was created. Paul Laurent, a prominent figure in the world of bullfighting, founded his herd in 1944 and took over the management of the Beaucaire arena and other bullfighting facilities in the region. His breeding operation, one of the most decorated in history, is still managed by his descendants.
Today, the Beaucaire bullring bears the name of Paul Laurent, and a statue of his star bull, Goya, proudly stands in the town. Each season, numerous Camargue bullfights are held there, perpetuating an invaluable cultural heritage.
Located in the heart of the Land of Argence, Beaucaire is an emblematic place where the passion for Camargue racing is fully experienced. Attending a race in these arenas is like diving into the heart of Camargue culture, where each raset is a demonstration of bravery and agility. The warmth of the atmosphere and the intensity of the event make this place a real favorite for all those who wish to experience the soul of the Camargue.
The festivities
Camargue Races and Votive Festival
Votive festivals and Camargue races form an inseparable whole in Terre d'Argence, where they embody the very essence of local culture. Votive festivals pay homage to village patron saints through religious processions, masses, and popular festivities such as balls and pétanque competitions. At the heart of these celebrations, Camargue races captivate the crowds.
These events bring together locals and visitors around a shared passion for Camargue culture, offering a vibrant spectacle and a true symbol of the conviviality and tradition of the south of France.
Find the Camargue races calendar
When to attend a Camargue race?
Experience a Camargue bullfight and understand everything!
Accompanied by an expert guide, discover all the codes of this traditional sport.
