Tapping, a true tradition in Gironde
Tapping involves harvesting resin from maritime pines for the production of gemstone, a material used in the manufacture of products such as turpentine, rosin and soap. Tapping is a seasonal activity that takes place mainly from April to October, when the sap rises in the trees. It is an ancestral practice which played a crucial role in the economy of the Landes de Gascogne region. It also contributed to the development of the chemical industry by providing essential raw materials.
Today, although the tapping industry has declined over the decades due to the development of substitute chemicals, it remains an important activity in the region. It also retains great cultural and environmental value.
Gemmage, a passion that is passed on
Did you know that there are workshops to discover this ancient profession? Come and discover the profession of gem or resin worker, characteristic of our region in contact with passionate men and women. HAS Marketprime on the Arcachon basin or at Porge in the Médoc the history of this disappeared profession is told to you.
