Importance Score: 70 / 100 🔴
Pheasant Island: The Tiny Landmass Swapping Nations Every Six Months
Europe boasts numerous stunning islands, from Tenerife to Sicily. While these well-known vacation destinations teem with sun-seeking tourists year-round, a minuscule island stands out for a unique reason. Measuring a mere 200 meters in length and 40 meters in width, this diminutive and uninhabited isle rests in a riverine setting, demarcating the frontier between France and Spain. Intriguingly, sovereignty over this peculiar place alternates biannually.
A Shared Territory: The World’s Smallest Condominium
Referred to as Pheasant Island – Île des Faisans in French and Isla de los Faisanes in Spanish – this islet represents the globe’s most diminutive condominium, an uncommon arrangement involving shared rule by two countries. Annually, the governance of Pheasant Island transitions. From February 1st to July 31st, Spanish authorities administer the island. Subsequently, from August 1st to January 31st, it falls under French jurisdiction. This centuries-old accord remains in effect, with each nation alternately responsible for the land’s upkeep and the execution of ceremonial obligations.
Location at the Border River
The island’s geographical placement is within the Bidasoa River, nestled between the Spanish town of Irun and the French town of Hendaye, situated a short distance from the Bay of Biscay. Although the river itself constitutes a natural boundary, Pheasant Island is positioned entirely within Spanish territory. This positioning is dictated by the border’s delineation along the river’s deepest channel.
Historical Significance: Treaty of the Pyrenees and Royal Encounters
Pheasant Island’s exceptional status originates from 1659 when it became the venue for a pivotal peace accord. France and Spain endured decades of conflict, culminating in the Treaty of the Pyrenees, signed on this very island to cease hostilities.
To commemorate this landmark event, a monument remains erected at the island’s center – the “Monument to Peace in the Pyrenees.”
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Island of Marriages: Royal Meetings and Diplomacy
As a component of the peace settlement, King Louis XIV of France encountered his future spouse, Maria Theresa of Spain, on the island. Their union aimed to solidify peace between the two kingdoms. Further royal rendezvous transpired in the 18th century, leading to the island’s moniker: “The island of marriages”.
Access and Modern Status: Limited Public Entry
Despite its historical importance, Pheasant Island remains generally inaccessible to the public throughout the year, owing to its military and diplomatic significance. However, limited guided heritage tours are occasionally organized during the bi-annual handover ceremonies.
Beyond these brief visits, access to the island is restricted to officials from Irun and Hendaye, or naval personnel from both countries who share the duty of maintenance. For those exploring the Basque Country, Pheasant Island is visible from riverside promenades in both Irun and Hendaye, offering a glimpse of this unique shared territory.