zoom_in Click to enlarge

Marais Audomarois

▲ ▼

description Marais Audomarois Overview

The Marais Audomarois is an extensive wetland of canals, marshes, meadows, and cultivated plots around Saint Omer in northern France. Its landscape was shaped by centuries of drainage and market gardening, including vegetable plots traditionally reached by flat bottomed boats. The area is recognized as a UNESCO biosphere reserve and includes a Ramsar wetland site. It supports farming, wildlife conservation, boating, and the study of a long inhabited cultural landscape.

help Marais Audomarois FAQ

Where is the Marais Audomarois located?

The Marais Audomarois is a sprawling wetland region located in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France. It sits directly adjacent to the historic town of Saint-Omer.

Why was the Marais Audomarois designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?

It earned its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status due to its unique landscape of floating market gardens, known locally as "hortillonnages." The region represents a centuries-old agricultural practice where farmers use flat-bottomed boats to cultivate vegetables.

How do farmers navigate and cultivate the gardens in the Marais Audomarois?

Farmers navigate the marsh using traditional flat-bottomed boats called "bacoves." They dig drainage ditches to create raised islands of soil, where they grow crops like cauliflower, endives, and artichokes.

What historical event led to the creation of the Marais Audomarois?

The marsh was originally a coastal bay that was progressively diked and drained by monks in the Middle Ages. The Abbey of Saint Bertin played a major role in organizing this land reclamation starting in the 7th century.

swap_horiz

Looking for Marais Audomarois alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward