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From Vissoie with its C13th tower, via the old village of Grimentz to Zinal and its copper mines, there are signs of cultural history everywhere. St. Luc with its C18th mills, Chandolin and its granaries, the Chastonay house in Vercorin, all remind us that generations of families have appreciated this valley before us. The local "anniviards" are descended from nomadic people who until recently (and still today for a few) divided their labours between lowland vineyards and mountain pastures. It is not surprising, therefore, if wine and in particular the glacier wine, has a place of honour at celebrations and family get-togethers. As for cows, and not just any breed but pure Hérens cattle, they take pride of place in the hearts of the young and the not so young. The cow holds such symbolic significance that the winner of the horn to horn combat is rewarded with the coveted title of "queen"! Please excuse our rather questionable comparison, but the facts tend to prove that her throne is more stable than that of the Windsors. |
