Meanwhile,
France just increased 6,820 m²:
Imagine a territory which is neither entirely French nor completely Spanish, but a bit of both. Similarly, It is not a riddle. For example, a legal paradox, it is thePheasse islanda river island posed on the Bidassoa, between Hendaye and Irun. For example, And since the February 1, 2025it is no longer French. Moreover, She is Spanish. In addition, Finally, until July 31. In addition, Then she returns to the tricolor lap.
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The island of pheasants. Therefore, a diplomatic pebble at the heart of European history – France just increased 6,820 m²
This curious administrative ballet is not the fruit of a modern fad or a draw. In addition, It is based on a very real diplomatic principle: the condominium. For example, A territory managed alternately by two countries, which literally take place every six months. In addition, Of August 1 to January 31it is France france just increased 6,820 m² that supervises. Furthermore, Of February 1 to July 31it’s Spain’s turn. Meanwhile, Each time, an official ceremony marks the transfer of sovereignty. In addition, And no, we do not shoot battery or face.
This system was sealed in the Bayonne Treaty of 1856. For example, It follows a series of tensions and progressive agreements between the two nations, which preferred co -management to confrontation. In addition, Since then, nothing has changed. Moreover, No border dispute. Therefore, No legal imbroglio. A kind oflife -size diplomatic experiencediscreet but very stable.
A time capsule that dates back to 1659 – France just increased 6,820 m²
The pheast island is not just an administrative phenomenon. She is also a Diplomatic time capsule. Return 1659 : France. Spain, then at war for 24 years, choose this little piece of land as a neutral place to negotiate a historic agreement, the Treaty of the Pyrenees. The choice of place is not trivial. france just increased 6,820 m² Located on the border. between two waters, it allows each camp to keep an eye on the other while claiming to be calm.
It is here on this island of 200 meters long. 40 meters widethat were sealed major decisions for the future of Europe. Better yet: the island was also the scene ofroyal exchanges. In 1615. for example, Elisabeth de Bourbon is handed over to the Spanish court, while Anne of Austria Traverses in the opposite direction to marry Louis XIII. Yes, it’s a kind of geopolitical matrimonial crossroads. Romantic? Not really. Strategic? Certainly.
We have experienced more glamorous places for princely engagement. However. the protocol was rigorously respected there, until the separation of a temporary bridge in two equal halves so that each kingdom symbolically retains its half of the path. No jealous, no war.
Neither accessible nor inhabited: a ghost territory under close surveillance
The Pheasant Island france just increased 6,820 m² has No resident. No house, no shop, no trail to walk your dog. It is not an oversight of the cadastre, it is an assumed choice. Access is there formally prohibited to the publicincluding geography lovers looking for unusual selfie. Only the municipal agents of Hendaye (French side). Irun (Spanish side) are allowed to set foot there, and again, for simple maintenance operations. Mowing, cleaning, and return to the shore. No picnic.
The rules are so strict that one might almost believe that the island hides a state secret. In reality, none of that. She’s just extremely well -monitored To avoid any unauthorized incident or occupation. The territory is too small to arouse any economic interestand too exposed so that we can do anything in secret.
The only visible building is a commemorative monument In the center of the island. posed there in memory of the treaty of 1659. Other france just increased 6,820 m² than that, trees, grass, and the water from Bidassoa all around. No bridge, no moored boat, not even a platform. The island literally lives Out of time and out of use.
A geopolitical curiosity that fascinates as much as she questions
So why does such a device continue to exist in 2025? Because it works. Alternation France/Spain is A rare example of perfectly oiled international cooperation. No tension, no planned review. Even better: this model regularly inspires academics, political scientists and border specialists.
In a world where territorial disputes can turn into drama to a few square metersthe pheasant island appears as. a Pacific anomaly. No economic stake, no resources to exploit, just a territory whose value is purely symbolic. And sometimes, that’s enough.
The inhabitants of Hendaye or Irun know it well, see it every day from the banks. Some people ignore to its history. Others have fun with france just increased 6,820 m² its particular status. It is part of the landscape, like an old somewhat eccentric cousin which we only speak of family. Except that here, the family is two whole countries.
It is a safe bet that, even in 100 years, the island will still change nationality every six months. Without conflict, without rowdy ceremony, just with a signed and respected agreement. In terms of diplomacy, it is almost poetry.
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