Visit The Mediterranean Coast of Southern France And The Sport of Languedoc Jouster

The pleasing, attractive and beauty of the Mediterranean coast comes alive in villages and towns of Sete, Meze, Agde, Frontignan and Bouzigues. All located in southern France Languedoc-Roussillon, forming what is called pay de Thau for its proximity to the Thau lagoon. The salt water pool, separated from the sea by a sandbank in the sea was an important cultural and commercial center for southern Europe since Roman times. Today he is best known as a sports event revives the medieval times jousting

Each year between June and September, thousands of spectators gather at Sete for the feast of Saint Louis, a celebration of the patron saint of the town and the world championships for Languedoc jousting.

Differs from the traditional Languedoc jousting tournament together in a unique way, instead of a horse, it happen in the water. Duelers, perched on a podium in the front line in the long boats powered by groups of eight rowers each, arm themselves with spear and shield, prod, swing and defend until one falls into a river. But no blood was drawn, lances tournament Languedoc joust, used in a very safe and it’s done in a good spirit. It’s rowdy (each boat also holds drummer and oboe, who plays the duel and rhythm) happy, drawing crowds by the thousand. Each year more than 180 best fighters participate and there can be only one winner.

There is a tremendous enthusiasm and competitiveness around these tournaments where people from the village and its community. Size definitely matters in this sport, the heaviest is undeniably an advantage, but the technical skills such as balance and strength are equally important and it takes years of practice to reach to the top.

Although rare, accidents happen. The spears has three iron spikes used to strike the opponent’s shields wooded. Balance between three feet above the water, moving in time to the rhythm of paddling and trying to target a small shield with a long spear is not an easy task. It is a sport that does not just happen without preparation.

The ceremony is the visible part of the sport and has in fact taken very seriously. It all began with a procession, in which regulation uniforms are worn, white from head to toe, as well as red or blue belt. The most important thing is that some individuals carry a shovel blue or red ribbon, engraved with the word jouteur (jouster)

Public officials, presidents of the juries, and administrators also carry paddles with an inscription indicating its function. This tradition of 400 years is protected by the disciplinary committee of the League of Jousters which can impose sanctions on a competitor or team apparel or improper conduct of disrespect.

In fact, there is a determination to keep things as true to the original as possible. The game probably originated in Aigues-Mortes Languedoc (southern France) when the Crusaders waiting to ship to take them to the Holy Land to liberate Jerusalem decided to practice their combat skills. Records indicate that a jousting tournament held in Sète in 1600, the year of founding of the city.

As expected, the passion for the games emerged from an early age among residents. Once a child can walk, they are ready armed with a spear to confront the enemy. However, only one can win and for the people, failing in the water means that only a show more enjoyable for fans is encouraging, a heritage and a true warrior sport.