History Of Biarritz

Biarritz is among Frances most exclusive holiday resorts, attracting the rich and famous while still holding appeal for regular holidaymakers. The city is home to some fine examples of architecture, which stand today as concrete reminders of its more recent history.

Vikings

Although it is established that Biarritz was occupied well over a millennium ago, there is not a great deal documented about its early days. The towns first settlers are believed to have been Vikings, who discovered the area while in the process of invading Gascony in 840 AD. The areas appeal was based largely around its coastal location and its ample whaling opportunities.

The Scandinavians made their settlements in the area near the beach and named it Bjarnihus, which evolved into Biarnitz and later Biarritz. Shortly after, the area saw some conflict and the chief of the Vikings was defeated, leaving behind a hardcore of Scandinavian inhabitants, the descendents of whom became known as the Agots. The Agots lived autonomously from other settlers in the area and stayed largely to continue reaping the benefits of the seas whale population. The existence of two separate communities in the area created a distinct segregation, which did not disappear until the early 20th century.

The citys prosperity owes much to the ocean, with a large degree of its high profile owed to its whaling industry, but also to early claims from doctors that the sea waters hold therapeutic properties. The latter issue encouraged the sick and afflicted to make pilgrimages to the city in search of relief from their ailments.

Napoleonic times

In more recent times, 1854 to be precise, the citys profile was further elevated by the building of a palace on the beach by Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III. Royal connections inspired the British royal family to take an interest in the city and Biarritz saw the likes of Queen Victoria and Edward VII taking vacations here. This contributed heavily to Biarritzs reputation as an exclusive holiday destination, although it has become increasingly accessible to package holidaymakers with the decrease in the cost of holidaying abroad that began towards the end of the 20th century.