Vals, Ariège

Vals is a small southern French village with 94 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2011 ) in the department of Ariège in the Midi-Pyrénées region.

Location

Vals is (also Grand Hers ) about 15 km ( driving distance ) away to the east of Pamiers far from the Hers - Vif river. Mirepoix, the capital of Canton lies a further 13 kilometers east.

Demographics

In the 19th century Vals always had 130-200 inhabitants. Due to the mechanization of agriculture and the resulting loss of jobs, the population has declined steadily since the early 20th century to the lowest level in the 1980s.

Economy

The inhabitants live mainly from agriculture and forestry. But even the rental of holiday homes and apartments ( gîtes ) plays an important role in the economy of the small community.

History

The village with its crevices and caves was probably in prehistoric times shelter for hunters and gatherers. A Celtic tribe built here probably around 300 BC hillfort ( oppidum or castrum ).

The first written references about the place ( valle pedetario or val de petaria ) date from the 10th century. The Church of the Rock was built in substantial parts in the 11th and 12th centuries. Some researchers suggest that the cross-axis steeple is formerly been the Donjon of a medieval castle; others say it originated only from the 15th century or was added even later.

By a decree of Pope Pius IX. from 1854, the pilgrimage is equipped to Vals with a plenary indulgence of all punishments for sin.

Attractions

Sanctuary of Sainte -Marie

Other

Apart from the Church the small town has no attractions. But he is a good starting point for hikes in the rural environment.