The Magic of Maguelone
A Place for the People
Joan
6/2/20243 min read
Maguelone is a magical place, that I hold dear. A tiny volcanic island on the edge of the Mediterranean surrounded by lagoons, and the canal Rhône Sète, which runs close by. On top of a rise lies an ancient cathedral . This is surrounded by a large park and extensive vineyards, whilst a tiny road runs close by connecting the canal to the sea. This road is forbidden to motorised traffic. It runs alongside lagoons that are teeming with wild life, and enjoys extensive views over the mountains to the north. The nearest civilisation is at Villeneuve les Maguelones , which lies over the moving canal footbridge, and a further drive away along a narrow spit of land. I guarantee, that amidst all this beauty , you will not see one iota of human despoilation. But how can that be, for the enormous agglomeration of Montpellier is not too far away, as well as large seaside resorts like Frontignan and Palavas? The answer lies in its geography , for this is an area of salt marsh and water, that is not ideal for development. What's more it has been protected over the centuries by its owners, the Catholic church, and in the latter part of the 19th Century, the historian Frédéric Fabrègues who dedicated himself to research and restoration of the cathedral. It is thanks to his son that it was handed on to the Diocese of Montpellier in 1949. It is now run by 'Les Compagnons de Maguelone' who offer protected employment to adults with learning difficulties in its restaurant, oyster beds, and vineyards. It remains a very special place.