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IN BRIEF
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Discover a true geographical curiosity in the heart of France! Imagine a commune that, like a tightrope walker on a wire, stretches between two departments and two administrative regions. Indeed, this little corner of original land exists: the village of Saint-Santin-de-Maurs. With its few hundred inhabitants, its two town halls and two churches but only one war memorial, this unusual village deserves to be explored to understand the small (and big) administrative peculiarities that make it so fascinating.
Discover a unique French commune #
In the vast French landscape, some localities stand out truly from the ordinary, astonishing lovers of the unusual. Nestled between Cantal and Aveyron is a village, Saint-Santin-de-Maurs, which is distinguished by its geographical uniqueness: it spans two departments and two regions. Let us dive into the specifics of this unusual commune, where residents juggle between two administrative identities.
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A surprising geography #
Saint-Santin-de-Maurs is indeed the only commune in France that exists straddling not just two departments — Cantal in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and Aveyron in Occitanie — but also two administrative regions. This geographical split gives rise to a border that literally cuts through the village square, creating a rather original administrative situation. Since 1790, residents have lived with this curious constraint, leading to various minor administrative hassles and comical situations, such as when it comes to accessing public services or voting.
A shared daily life #
On a daily basis, the inhabitants of Saint-Santin-de-Maurs experience a unique communal life where they can adapt their procedures according to the department in which they reside. The commune has two town halls, but… surprise, only one war memorial! This reflects a shared history, as well as the nuances that residents must manage. Each of them must navigate the subtle game of regulations and administrative applications that change depending on which side of the border they find themselves. Fortunately, the relationships between the two sides are harmonious, with villagers cultivating a sense of community despite their geographical division.
What Saint-Santin has to offer #
Don’t be misled by its administrative division, as Saint-Santin-de-Maurs is surrounded by stunning nature and a rich culture. This village offers visitors much more than just a geographical feat. Adventurers seeking escape can explore the surrounding landscapes, such as the majestic limestone gorges of Trou de Bozoul, which offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. Hiking enthusiasts will also be satisfied with the beauty of the Monts du Cantal and nearby attractions such as the Gouffre de Padirac and Pareloup Lake.
A rich heritage to discover #
The appeal of Saint-Santin-de-Maurs is not limited to its extraordinary geography. While exploring the surroundings, you will encounter picturesque villages such as Rocamadour, Conques, and Saint-Cirq Lapopie, each steeped in history and featuring architecture that evokes ancient times. These destinations invite exploration, offering not only a charming setting but also a cultural heritage that is sure to amaze visitors.
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For more information about this unique commune, feel free to consult the official website: www.saint-santin-de-maurs.fr.
