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The history of Vendays-Montalivet

Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the commune of Vendays-Montalivet is a hidden treasure thanks to its rich natural and historical heritage. Don’t just pass through Montalivet, come and discover its atypical history!

They keep an eye about us

The Virgin stands like a lighthouse on the waterfront. Since 1868, she has been pointing towards the horizon and keeping an eye on the ocean. The Virgin Mary is said to represent a guide and protection for sailors.

A must-see monument in the resort, she is best placed to contemplate the beautiful sunsets.

Behind her, a bust pays tribute to Jacques LAPORTE, founder of Montalivet.

💡🍀Alittle tip: walk around the column and luck will smile on you!

Where does Montalivet get its name?

The only persistent trace is the name “Vendays”, a contraction of the Gallic words vindos (white) and ialo (clearing).

There are many legends about Montalivet… so it’s up to you to choose your favorite!

From an old shepherd

An old shepherd called Libet lived in our commune. In the local dialect, we used to say “jou mounte a Libet” when we brought him provisions as he grazed his flock.

From the sinking of a ship

After a boat carrying olives ran aground near Soulac, the currents brought the cargo to our beaches, giving rise to the name “Mount of Olives”: Monte Oliveto.

Ancient etymology

The historian Jean Dufour also reports hypotheses on a Breton origin (“avel eleiz”, the wind in full) or even Gascon (“mont alibet”, bare mountain).

The Heritage Barn

In the heart of the pine forest, the Grange du Patrimoine and its natural spaces are dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and traditions that are the strength of our region. This museum is the perfect place to learn more about local activities and heritage. 100,000 years of the Médoc’s history are described: its geology, history, climate, fauna, flora…

A local association, Los Tradinaires, is exhibiting photos, tools and historical documents to showcase the work of the commune’s former resin makers. From the preparation of the pine to the harvesting of the resin, a film explains the activity of gemmage before the 60s.

The Heritage Barn is open to the public free of charge.

Visits are on Tuesday afternoons. Please register on 05.56.09.30.12

Operation Frankton

On November 30, 1942, the British submarine HMS Tuna left Glasgow for Operation Frankton. On board were twelve commandos, tasked with carrying out a daring raid: kayaking up the Gironde to sink German ships in the port of Bordeaux.

The commandos were dropped off the coast of Montalivet, and had to navigate through dangerous waters at night. Only two survived, and the operation succeeded in damaging four German ships.

This memorial, facing the beach, commemorates this daring WWII operation.

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