Blaye

Blaye is a commune of the Gironde département, in France. Pop. (1906) of the town, 3423; of the commune, 4890.

Geography

Blaye is located on the right bank of the Gironde estuary (here over 2 m. wide), 35 m. north of Bordeaux by rail.

History

In ancient times Blaye (Blavia) was a port of the Santones. Tradition states that the hero Roland was buried in its basilica, which was on the site of the citadel. It was early an important stronghold which played an important part in the wars against the English (who burnt it in 1352) and the Religious Wars. The duchess of Berry was imprisoned in its fortress in 1832-1833.

The town was formerly named Blaye-et-Sainte-Luce and was renamed Blaye on June, 1961.

Sights

The town has a citadel built by Vauban on a rock beside the river, and embracing in its enceinte ruins of an old Gothic château. The latter contains the tomb of Charibert II, king of Aquitaine, and son of Clotaire II. Blaye is also defended by the Fort Paté on an island in the river and the Fort Médoc on its left bank, both of the 17th century.

Economy

It has a small river-port, and carries on trade in wine, brandy, grain, fruit and timber. The industries include the building of small vessels, distilling, flour-milling, and the manufacture of oil and candles. Fine red wine is produced in the district.

Miscellaneous

The town is the seat of a sub-prefect, and has tribunals of first instance and of commerce and a communal college.

External links and references

Town council website (in French)
Personal website about Blaye (in French)
Webpage about Blaye Citadel
Another webpage about Blaye Citadel

Communes of Gironde