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La légende des cornes de chèvres
Rural heritage, Historical event site, Town, village and district
in Bellegarde-en-Marche
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The tradition of goat-eating bellegardiers is maintained by a brotherhood created in 1961. The legend dates back to the 100 Years War. Bellegarde became an outpost of the kingdom of France against the possessions of the Kings of England, allied with the Comtes de la Marche. The whole region suffers from devastation and bands of looters. Bellegarde was attacked by the Black Prince, eldest son of King Edward III of England. When the English troops arrived, legend has it that the bellegardiers...
The tradition of goat-eating bellegardiers is maintained by a brotherhood created in 1961. The legend dates back to the 100 Years War. Bellegarde became an outpost of the kingdom of France against the possessions of the Kings of England, allied with the Comtes de la Marche. The whole region suffers from devastation and bands of looters. Bellegarde was attacked by the Black Prince, eldest son of King Edward III of England. When the English troops arrived, legend has it that the bellegardiers arrived at the town entrance with the handles of their tools topped by goat horns. At the time, goats were abundant in the region. They are the most commonly eaten meat, either salted or boiled. Surprised by this curious reception, the Black Prince is said to have exclaimed "Oh la bêêle garde", and to have done no looting.
