Local leader supports UNESCO listing

Éric Bouget, president of the Union des métiers et des industries de l'hôtellerie (UMIH) in the Gard, has expressed strong support for inscribing Nîmes and the Camargue on the UNESCO World Heritage List. He described such a designation as "magnificent" and emphasized its potential to create "connectivity" between the region’s cultural and natural assets.

UNESCO as a protective umbrella

Bouget referred to UNESCO recognition as a "very beautiful umbrella" that would protect the unique character of the Camargue, often called the "little Venice" of the region. He believes this status would safeguard the area’s traditions and cultural identity from external pressures.

Economic benefits anticipated

As a restaurateur in Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, Bouget is keenly aware of the economic opportunities UNESCO status could bring. He claims it would generate "enormous benefits" for the region, helping to "attract people upwards" and boost local tourism and investment.

Nîmes as a model

He pointed to Nîmes as evidence of the potential benefits, citing the recent UNESCO classification of its Maison Carrée in 2023. Within six months, two high-end hotels opened in the area, including the Grand Hôtel Dieu and Mercure Nîmes centre arènes, both owned by the Sowell group.

Strategic location highlighted

Bouget emphasized the region’s "exceptional richness" in heritage and cultural identity, as well as its "privileged geographical location" between Provence, the Camargue, and the Mediterranean. He sees this as a key factor in its potential for international recognition and appeal.