History of Aracachon - France
Founded on 2nd May 1857 by imperial decree of Napoleon III, Arcachon very soon became a holiday destination synonymous with well-being. Its reputation has continued to grow. It expanded neighbourhood, by neighbourhood over time becoming the City of the four Seasons. It is 160 years old this year. The Summer Town was established at the very beginning of the 19th century when swimming in the sea became popular. Celebrities flocked there and chalets, villas, etc. were built. Today, 'Summer City' comprises the seafront and the centre of Arcachon. The Autumn Town includes the Saint Ferdinand and Aiguillon neighbours renowned for fishing and yachting. Fisheries and shipyards thrived there until the beginning of the 50's The Winter Town, a real architectural jewel, is made up of 300 glamorous villas. It was founded by the Pereire brothers to create an open-air sanatorium on the Arcachon sand dune (1863). Alongside the hygienists chalets, enormous villas were very quic