Explore the south of France, the Pyrenees and northern Spain

Based in the south of France for 25 years, I am an author who specialises in history, landscapes and gastronomy on both sides of the Pyrenees.

There are three main ways to explore my website: (i) use the interactive map (ii) browse the list of selected articles (iii) choose a topic.

Clickable map of locations covered in articles by Colin Duncan Taylor.

This claims to be the oldest treaty still in force in Europe today. On 13 July every year, representatives from two Pyrenean valleys – one French, one Spanish – join hands at the border and repeat the ancient chant: ‘Pax avant! Pax avant! Pax avant!’ Let there be peace! Last week, I attended the 650th edition. READ MORE
This term comes from two Latin words meaning across (trans) and ground (humus), a type of seasonal migration that is still practised in many parts of the world today. Transhumance is particularly prevalent around the northern side of Mediterranean basin from Turkey to Spain, and this is probably the route by which it was introduced to the Pyrenees around 7,000 years ago. READ MORE
The very name of this quaint little town sounds Moorish, and indeed, Alquézar is thought to derive from the Arabic word for fortress. Around 1067, Alquézar was captured by the king of Aragon and a medieval Christian town developed. Today, it is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. READ MORE

Presentation of the 2026 Tribute of the Three Cows, an annual ceremony which claims to be the oldest treaty still in force in Europe today.