Inspired by Provence, the restanques allow to arrange a very sloping ground in terraces of culture. Traditional and very aesthetic, they structure the garden and give it a particular cachet.
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| Picutre Credit : talent.paperblog |
A well-established tradition
Very representative of the Provencal heritage, the restanques or "bancaou" are ancestral constructions made of dry stones found on the ground. They are the worthy representatives of the adaptation of Man to his environment allowing both to increase the surface of cultivable soil and to limit its erosion. The knowledge, transmitted from generation to generation since the 18th century, has allowed over time to adapt to the relief of the land. Indeed, the steeper the slope, the narrower the restanques and the higher the wall. These low walls, which can be very long, are generally no more than one meter high.
In the past, these terraces were dedicated to the cultivation of vines or olive trees. This technique fell into disuse in the last century as agricultural practices changed radically. This heritage was gradually invaded by vegetation and the stones of the low walls collapsed for lack of maintenance. To enhance this heritage, some municipalities have taken protective measures requiring the conservation of the restanques during construction or development work.
The restanques nowadays
Nowadays, the restanques are again used in the agricultural domain. They are used as pastures for animals, but also to cultivate olive trees, vines, citrus fruits, or even saffron and aromatic or medicinal plants.
In the ornamental garden, the technique of restanques is making a strong comeback, especially in the works of landscapers, who bring a very structured touch to the gardens they have created. These terraces can be used to give a rustic look to a garden as well as a contemporary impulse, depending on the style of the house and the plants that will be installed there.
Mediterranean plants such as lavender, agapanthus or creeping rosemary cascading over low walls, topped with a beautiful olive tree will bring a certain cachet to the garden.
Succulent plant lovers can also use the terraces to cultivate their passion since these constructions allow for good drainage of the soil and restore a maximum of heat. Gardeners who produce will have a great time in their pretty terraced vegetable garden growing cabbage, strawberries or tomatoes at the right height.
