Marshes and Fier d'Ars

The first salt marshes appeared on the island of Ré in the 14th century, with the work carried out by religious orders. At the beginning of the 15th century, sedimentation enabled the marshes to be extended, particularly around Loix and Ars-en-Ré. The salt trade prospered until the end of the 19th century, but increased competition, particularly from Brittany, Spain and Portugal, led to a fall in prices. At this time, some marshes were abandoned and turned into oyster beds. A syndicate was...