Burzet

Burzet is a commune with 454 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2011 ) in Ardèche, in the Rhône -Alpes. Residents will (it) called Burzetin. Burzet is the seat of the canton of the same name.

Geography

It is located in the northern Hochcevennen, in the valley of the river Bourges, in the midst of mountains of volcanic origin. Burzet is part of the Regional Natural Park of Monts d' Ardèche, bordering the neighboring communities Meyras and Montpezat- sous- Bauzon. The nearest major town is Aubenas 18 km away. The landscape is marked by numerous sources, cascades and young volcanoes. In addition to Bourges also the flow Padelle crosses the municipality.

History

Burzet was in the Middle Ages under the suzerainty of the Peyre family. In the 13th century the first time the famous costumed Easter procession took place on Good Friday, which is still followed by hundreds of faithful.

In 2000, the community became sad notoriety when a military transport aircraft of the brand Lockheed C -130 Hercules crashed over the place.

Culture and sights

Burzet has a well -preserved medieval town center, the center of the market square, surrounded by numerous ancient buildings, forms. In addition, it is also still the ruins of the Château de Peyre find, which was destroyed under the direction of Cardinal Richelieu.

The town is also famous for the church of Saint -André, which was built in the 15th century in the Gothic style and characterized by its three pointed arches naves. 1621 collapsed one of the ships, so this could still be reconstructed in the same year on the obtained arch. 1804 the building was restored and re- installed a new altar screen of pine wood by Pierre Testut from Le Béage. 1818 and 1853 were new bells and window glasses, designed by Michel Chapuy used.

The community also has a small chapel from the 12th century in the hamlet of Villard, which was dedicated to Saint Benezet. There also exist an oratorio and an old Priory of Belvezet, which is known for its arched gallery.

Burzet is also one of 32 stations on the Way of the Cross Saint- André, who has been brought to life by missionary Pierre Vigne. 1804 and 1828 this way and the adjacent churches and chapels was restored twice as a result of wars. This takes place every year at Easter, the solemn procession, in which all residents of the community participate in either acting or by the making of the costumes.

Due to the location of the village in the Natural Park of the Cevennes, there are also a large number of tourists that visit the area of the municipality. For example, the natural free water in the basalt Basin near Perveranges or 3500 years old lava flow along the river Bourges.

A special tourist attraction is the Cascade du Ray -Pic, a small waterfall consisting of two beams, the first of which, not visible from height of 60 meters and the second main beam of 30 meters, plunging into the depths.

Personalities

Burzet is the home church of Saint Benezet, who got the legend in 1177 as a 12- year-old boy the contract for the construction of the famous bridge of Avignon. He is also a small chapel was dedicated in honor.

Others

Burzet also supplied the name of a noble variety of chestnut, the Burzette, which is described by experts as the best chestnuts in the world.