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Bethmale

Bethmale (; ) is a commune in the Ariège department of southwestern France.

Name

The name is of Gascon origin: "Beth" (beautiful) and "Malh" (mountain, mountain side).

Organization

The valley contains six villages in two communes:

Commune de Bethmale
  • Ayet
  • Samortein
Commune d'Arrien-en-Bethmale
  • Aret
  • Arrien
  • Tournac
  • Villargein

Located in the former province of Couserans, it is well known for its local culture, and for a cheese they produce, a semi-hard cow's milk cheese traditionally made from raw milk.

History

The valley is characterized by a strong sense of local identity, expressed in the traditional costumes of the area, which includes the famous Bethmale clogs.

Population

Inhabitants of Bethmale are called Bethmalais in French.

See also

References