The words of the Camargue tradition
If you'd like to learn more about the secrets of the Camargue tradition, here are a few technical terms!
Biòu
Bull name in Occitan
Bouvine
It refers to the entire bullfighting community around the Camargue bull and the geographical area in which it is raised and the games that surround it.
Cocardier
A Camargue bull that has demonstrated its qualities and bravery in the ring.
Crochet
Outil de fer en forme de griffe, dont se sert le raseteur pour lever les attributs que porte le cocardier.
Camargue cross
Created in 1926, the cross and its gardian tridents express faith, the fishermen's anchor, hope, and the heart, the charity of the saintes Maries. It symbolizes the "Camargue Nation".
Bull run
A bull run in a barricaded area through the streets of a village.
Stinker
Stencilled around the doors by the young people of the village, in return for a financial contribution. The resident who makes the contribution allows the famous empègue (Camargue cross, trident, raseteurs' hook, animals or other symbol linked to the bouvine tradition) to be placed on the door.
Gardian
Often a volunteer, he's involved in the life of a manade. He's the herd's guardian.
Old-fashioned day
A day when the local population dresses up in traditional costumes. Travel is by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage, and breakfast is usually served in the meadow.
Peña (band)
A Spanish-style brass and percussion ensemble that plays during the festival.
Simbeu
A bull trained to help herdsmen maneuver their animals.
Trident
Spiked iron used by herdsmen to direct and sort bulls