Biarritz

Biarritz began its transformation into a popular seaside resort in the 19th century, primarily starting in 1843. It gained fame when Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, built a palace on the beach (which is now the Hôtel du Palais). Their patronage brought the European aristocracy to Biarritz, which became known for its beauty and leisure. This laid the foundation for Biarritz's development as one of France's most prestigious coastal destinations.

In 1880, Biarritz was officially designated as a commune, a key administrative division in France. This status provided Biarritz with greater local governance and resources, allowing it to manage its rapid development effectively. As a commune, Biarritz was able to invest in infrastructure, improve public services, and enhance its appeal as a tourist destination. This change coincided with the city's rise as a fashionable resort town frequented by European elite.

The Biarritz Casino, a grand architectural masterpiece, opened its doors on April 16, 1924. This event marked a significant moment in Biarritz's history, enhancing its reputation as a luxury destination. The casino attracted wealthy tourists and high society from across Europe, offering gaming rooms and cultural events. Its Art Deco design became a symbol of the Roaring Twenties, influencing the cultural life of Biarritz. The casino remains a key attraction today.

During World War II, the Battle of Biarritz on June 28, 1940, saw German forces capturing this strategic location shortly after successfully occupying Paris. Biarritz's fall symbolized the rapid advancement of German troops through France. The occupation was part of the broader German strategy to control the Atlantic coast, enabling further operations in the region. The battle and subsequent occupation significantly impacted local life and marked a period of hardship under German rule.

The Treaty of Biarritz was signed in the coastal town of Biarritz, France, between Spain and the Allied Forces. This agreement marked the end of Spanish isolation from international diplomacy, leading to improved relations. The Treaty facilitated Spain's inclusion into certain European economic agreements, bolstering its post-war economy. Biarritz was chosen for its neutral location and historical significance in diplomacy.

On November 13, 1964, the Biarritz Agreement on Tuna Fishing was signed to regulate and manage tuna stocks in the Bay of Biscay. This agreement was crucial for sustainable fishing practices, involving cooperation between France and Spain. It established quotas, fishing seasons, and conservation measures to protect the tuna population, ensuring long-term viability for the fishing industry in the region. This landmark agreement highlighted the importance of environmental conservation.

On May 20, 1977, then French Prime Minister Jacques Chirac visited Biarritz as part of his tour of southwestern France. His visit aimed to promote economic development and address regional concerns. During his stay, Chirac met with local officials, visited key economic sites, and emphasized the government's commitment to supporting regional growth, which was seen as crucial for integrating more rural areas into the national economy. This visit underscored the strategic importance of Biarritz and the Basque region.

In August 1994, Biarritz hosted a significant G7 summit meeting. This was a gathering of leaders from seven of the world's largest advanced economies: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The summit was focused on global issues such as economic policy, climate change, and international security. The choice of Biarritz highlighted France's commitment to involving smaller cities in global diplomacy.

Biarritz hosts the annual Biarritz Surf Festival, which has been a major event for the international surfing community since its inception. In June 2005, the festival celebrated its 10th anniversary, underlining Biarritz's status as a premier surfing destination. The city's beaches attract surfers from around the world, and the festival includes competitions, exhibitions, and cultural events celebrating surf culture. This vibrant surfing scene contributes significantly to the local economy and cultural identity.

The G7 summit in Biarritz, France was held from August 24 to August 26, 2019. This summit was marked by discussions on global digital taxation, the Amazon forest fires, and trade tensions among major economies. The leaders of the seven member countries, along with the EU, convened to address and negotiate solutions to these pressing international issues. Emmanuel Macron, the French President, hosted this high-profile diplomatic gathering, aiming to foster global cooperation.