The "Gaze"
The "gaze" of Sommières is a great moment of the Sommières festivities, a must in local traditions.
TO SEE - AN EXCEPTIONAL AND UNIQUE "GAZE" in the river, UNDER A ROMAN BRIDGE
Did you know that ?
The gaze (or gase) is the swim across a stream by bulls accompanied by gardians on horseback. This tradition comes from the movements that formerly made the manadiers. The gardians had to cross many rivers to lead their herd between their meadow and new pastures. This gauze takes place every year during the local festival of Sommières.
When to see her ?
During the Sommières festivities, it is usually scheduled on an evening in early August.
How is it organized in Sommières ?
On the program : a "gaze" of bulls and a "gaze" of horses crossing the Vidourle River under the impressed "gaze "of the public gathered for the occasion.
live again the gaZe of horses in vidourle
WE TALK ABOUT IT...
Gérard, sommiérois
"La Gaze is an abrivado in the water. For me, it’s a magical and spectacular moment! The banks of the river and the Roman Bridge are full of people, there is really impatience in the air…
I think that’s where the work and the technique of the babysitters is best understood— as if water accentuated the skill of men and the power of beasts. When they pass under the arches, it’s beautiful, everyone applauds. Every time, I am impressed.
I wouldn’t miss it for anything in the world. You have to live it once in your life".