Hortillonnages Floating Gardens | Amiens

The Hortillonnages (or Floating Gardens) of Amiens are a unique and historic network of marshland gardens located in the heart of the city. Spanning around 300 hectares, the Hortillonnages represent a traditional form of aquatic agriculture that has been practiced for centuries in the Somme Valley. This picturesque and tranquil area is often referred to as "the Venice of Amiens" due to its maze of canals that run through it, giving visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the floating gardens from the water.

Key Features of the Hortillonnages:

1. History and Origins

• The Hortillonnages have been cultivated since the Middle Ages, with evidence suggesting that they were developed in the 12th century. Originally, the area was a series of marshy lands near the River Somme, which were gradually transformed into fertile, arable land by creating a system of canals for irrigation and transportation.
• The gardens were initially used for growing vegetables, particularly onions, leeks, and artichokes, and they became a vital part of Amiens' economy. Over time, the practice of cultivating crops on small, floating islands became more refined, and the hortillonnage system expanded to include a variety of crops, flowers, and ornamental plants.

2. The Floating Islands

• The key feature of the Hortillonnages is the floating islands created by reeds, peat, and soil. These islands are built up on top of the marshland and are large enough to support the growth of crops and flowers. Farmers use these islands to grow a variety of produce, often taking advantage of the natural water-based irrigation system.
• These gardens are known for their sustainability and ecological balance, with water naturally replenishing the land during seasonal floods. The floating islands are also surprisingly stable, with their weight evenly distributed over the water, allowing for a productive, yet environmentally-friendly form of agriculture.

3. Canal Network

• The Hortillonnages are connected by a vast network of canals, which can be navigated by small boats, known as barques. These canals serve as a means of transporting produce from the gardens to the city, as well as a way for visitors to explore the area.
• Visitors can take guided boat tours through the canals, which wind through lush green gardens and dense vegetation. The experience offers a serene, almost mystical, view of the floating gardens, with their vibrant flowers and vegetables visible from the water.
• The canals themselves are quite picturesque, with overhanging willows, lilies, and water plants lining the edges. The waterways are an integral part of the Hortillonnages and add to the idyllic atmosphere of the area.

4. Flora and Fauna

• The Hortillonnages are not only home to a variety of vegetables and flowers but also serve as an important habitat for local wildlife. The canals and marshes attract numerous species of birds, fish, and amphibians.
• The gardens are particularly famous for their vibrant flower displays during the warmer months. Visitors can witness the stunning colors of irises, lilies, water hyacinths, and lotus flowers growing along the waterways, creating a tranquil and colorful environment.
• The area is also an important site for biodiversity. The canals provide a habitat for species like the great crested grebe, swans, and various species of waterfowl, making the Hortillonnages an excellent spot for birdwatching.

5. Sustainable Farming

• The gardens are a great example of sustainable farming practices, where organic techniques are used, and crops are cultivated in harmony with the natural environment. This approach allows the Hortillonnages to maintain high levels of soil fertility while minimizing environmental impact.
• The practice of floating gardens is still carried out today, though on a smaller scale than in the past. Farmers and gardeners continue to use traditional techniques to cultivate a wide variety of vegetables, flowers, and herbs in a way that is both environmentally friendly and historically significant.

6. Cultural and Tourism Significance

• The Hortillonnages are a major tourist attraction in Amiens and offer visitors a unique experience to explore the city’s agricultural and cultural heritage. In addition to the boat tours, there are walking paths along the canals, where visitors can enjoy views of the floating gardens and the surrounding landscape.
• There are also various festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the Hortillonnages, such as the "Hortillonnages Festival" held each spring. During this event, the gardens are open to the public, and visitors can tour the gardens, meet the gardeners, and learn more about the history and techniques behind floating agriculture.
• The Hortillonnages are a symbol of the historical relationship between Amiens and its water-based agricultural practices. The floating gardens have played a central role in the city’s development and remain an important part of its cultural identity.

7. Environmental Importance

• The Hortillonnages are also an important ecological site due to the biodiversity they support. The canals, marshes, and floating gardens contribute to the local ecosystem by providing wetland habitats for wildlife, particularly birds and insects.
• The floating gardens help to maintain the ecological balance of the region by absorbing excess water and preventing flooding, particularly during the spring months when the River Somme is at its peak.

Conclusion:

The Hortillonnages of Amiens are a unique and charming part of the city's heritage, offering a glimpse into a centuries-old agricultural tradition. The floating gardens, with their canals, lush vegetation, and picturesque landscapes, provide a peaceful and reflective escape from the urban environment. Whether you're interested in the history of these gardens, their environmental significance, or simply the beauty of the canals and flowers, the Hortillonnages are a must-see destination for visitors to Amiens. The combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and ecological importance makes the floating gardens one of the city’s most enchanting attractions.