The Camargue is a beautiful natural region located south of Arles, France, between the Mediterranean Sea and the two arms of the Rhône River delta.

You can find a lot of wild life, but it is mainly known for its wild horses and flamingos.

Camargue Flamingos

The Flamingos in the Camargue (This image and the ones below are video stills from “Les Gardians: Stewards of the Camargue” by Bob Krist)

Since the 1500’s the men (and more recently, women) of the Brotherhood of the Camargue Horsemen have been tending to herds of horses and bulls in the unfenced coastal region of the Camargue in southern France.

Camargue Guardians

Camargue Guardians – Cowboys of Europe

Working with the bulls and the beautiful white horses of the region is a noble tradition, but economic and social pressures are taking their toll on the professional guardians. And their way of life is becoming harder to maintain.

Camargue Horses and Guardians 02

A Guardian leading the horses.

Gardians have played a vital role in Camargue culture for generations, but their way of life is becoming harder and harder to sustain. (Video still from "Les Gardians: Stewards of the Camargue" by Bob Krist)

Guardians have played a vital role in Camargue culture for generations, but their way of life is becoming harder and harder to sustain.

Camargue Horses and Guardians

Herding the horses

The Camargue horse is also known as the ‘horse of the sea’ is an ancient breed of horse indigenous to the Camargue area. It is generally considered one of the oldest breeds of horses in the world. it have existed in this region for centuries. Carefully monitored, yet allowed to run wild, these horses are very rugged with hooves especially adapted to lengthy exposure to water.

Camargue Horses gallop

Galloping…

Camargue Horses gallop02

The Camargue horse is also known as the ‘horse of the sea’

Below is a short and beautiful video about the horses and their team of guardians – a profession that is on its way to becoming extinct.

This is a HD video and I recommend you watch it in full screen.

 

 

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