Souvenir Medal Monnaie de Paris 2010 - Marais Salants de Guérande (44)

The Guérande Salt Marshes, located in the Loire-Atlantique region of France, are among the oldest salt marshes in Europe. They are used for the artisanal production of sea salt. Seawater is pumped into shallow basins, where salt crystallizes through natural evaporation. Paludiers, the workers, hand-harvest the salt. The final product, known as "fleur de sel," is of high quality and used in cooking. The Guérande Salt Marshes are a popular tourist attraction and preserve traditions while contributing to the conservation of the region's natural environment.