Understanding the “Flowered Towns and Villages” sign
The “Flowered Towns and Villages” road signs represent a national label of quality of life. Eventually, this lable symbolizes the commitment of municipalities to the well-being of residents, the aesthetic improvement of the area, and the environment.
Therefore, among the 4,785 municipalities labeled “Flowered Towns and Villages” in 2023, a remarkable 278 have achieved the prestigious four-flower rating.
The history of the sign : a French tradition
Specifically, the story of France’s love affair with floral towns and villages has its roots in the Grand Est region. Evidently, legend has it that a pope, inspired by the beauty of flowers, proposed replacing mines with vibrant blooms.
So, this love for floral embellishment blossomed firstly in 1959. As France emerged from the scars of war and focused on rebuilding its towns and villages, the National Council of Flowered Towns and Villages was established. This organization’s mission? To cultivate a nationwide passion for floral beautification in municipalities across the country.
How to Obtain the Label ?
The “Flowered Towns and Villages” label isn’t something municipalities just get; they have to work for it! Here’s a breakdown of the criteria municipalities must actively meet to earn this prestigious label:
- Prioritizing Vegetation in Public Spaces: The label emphasizes the importance of incorporating greenery into public areas.
- Conserving Nature’s Bounty: Sustainable practices for natural resources and biodiversity are key.
- Promoting French Botanical Heritage: Showcasing and nurturing France’s unique plant life is a must.
- Revitalizing Town Centers: The label encourages efforts to bring new life and vibrancy to town centers.
- Enhancing Tourism Appeal: Creating beautiful destinations that attract visitors is part of the equation.
- Engaging Citizens in Projects: Community involvement and participation in these initiatives are highly valued.
The national label system conducts reviews every three years to ensure municipalities are upholding their commitment to maintaining the label.
So, the number of flowers displayed on the sign reflects awards based on specific criteria. The minimum awarded is one flower, and the maximum is four. Regional councils grant the first three flowers, while only the national council can award the prestigious fourth flower.
The national jury awards the Golden Flower annually to a select group of municipalities with 4 flowers and exemplary practices. However, this prestigious award is only given for one year and a municipality can receive it again only after six years.
The Benefits of the Label
Eventually, the “Flowered Towns and Villages” label offers various advantages such as :
Formal recognition
For exemple, earning this label signifies official recognition for a municipality’s commitment to both environmental responsibility and floral beautification.
Tourist attraction
Furthermore, showcasing municipalities through their vegetation, but also their heritage actively attracts visitors, boosting the local economy.
Social and civic life
Markedly, the residents of the town participate in projects, which improves social relationships.
Sustainable development
So, by creating green spaces, municipalities actively promote biodiversity, protect insect populations, and therefore, enhance residents’ quality of life.
Life quality
An Ipsos survey conducted in 2022 revealed a positive sentiment among French citizens. A whopping 9 out of 10 French citizens reported finding the quality of life offered by their municipality to be “pleasant.”
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