Toulouse: The City of Pastel, Blue Gold, and Unique Souvenirs
Toulouse, often called "The Pink City" due to its unique terra-cotta brickwork, is a hub of rich history and culture. For anyone wondering "what is Toulouse famous for" or "what to do in Toulouse", the answer might surprise you. Beyond the beautiful architecture, museums, and cathedrals, Toulouse has a colorful history, literally! The city is famous for its unique contribution to the world of dyes - Pastel or ‘Blue Gold’, which paints a story as vivid as the color it produces.
The History of Pastel or ‘Blue Gold’ of Toulouse
Pastel, scientifically known as Isatis Tinctoria, is a plant with yellow flowers known since antiquity for its medicinal properties and its ability to create a resistant blue dye. The growth of Pastel's culture and its dye trade took place during the Renaissance, particularly in the Lauragais region, between Toulouse, Albi, and Carcassonne, in an area known as the ‘Blue Triangle’.
Pastel's transformation process was quite lengthy in those times. The plant's leaves were harvested, dried, and then crushed. After fermentation in urine, they were formed into balls known as ‘coques’ or ‘cocagnes’. The Lauragais region was thus called the 'Land of Cocagne'. These balls were crushed in mills and reduced to powder, known as the pigment agranat.
It's a fascinating fact that the dyeing occurs through oxidation. When the fabric to be dyed is immersed in a tub of water with the pigment, it comes out green. It only turns blue when it comes into contact with the oxygen present in the air!
The Impact of Pastel on Toulouse
The indelible color of high quality and the pigment that could also be used in painting were the driving forces behind the economic development of the region. Toulouse traders became wealthy thanks to the "Blue Gold". Some had palaces built in the heart of the city, like the private mansions of Jean de Bernuy (left) or Pierre d'Assézat (right).
However, this ‘Golden Age’ ended when the market collapsed with the rise of indigo trade, a quicker and more competitive dye plant. Today, there is an extensive range of products derived from Pastel: textiles, stationery, accessories, and more.
Pastel in Modern Times
Today, Pastel is no longer just used as a dye. The plant is also utilized in cosmetics and is found in several Toulouse shops. Its oil, pigments, and seeds are used for their hydrating and nourishing properties in the form of creams, soaps, and more. You can find these at Graine de Pastel and Terre de Pastel, which not only has a story in the city center with a wide array of pastel cosmetics but also has a fantastic spa and wellness center in Labège.
The Perfect Souvenir from Toulouse
If you are looking for a unique "souvenir from Toulouse", why not take a piece of the city's blue history home with you? At AHPY, for example, Annette Hardouin makes clothes from organic or 100% natural fabrics, hand-dyed with Toulouse Pastel blue. Whether you fall for a stole or prefer earrings, you can find original creations at the boutique Violette et Pastel.
Visiting the Museum Du Pastel
For those wondering about "places to visit in Toulouse", the Museum du Pastel, located on the outskirts of Toulouse, is a must-see. It is dedicated to the mysteries of Blue and its natural vegetable source, the Isatis Tinctoria L. plant. The museum is an exceptional and innovative place, housing 1500 m² dedicated to Pastel and revealing all the secrets of this legendary plant, the source of the Pays de Cocagne's fortune.
Here, you can experience the unique journey of Pastel, from plant to pigment, and even try your hand at dyeing.
Embrace Toulouse’s Blue Gold
So, when exploring "things to do in Toulouse", make sure to embrace the city's blue heritage. After all, few places can claim such a colorful history. Whether you are exploring the pastel plantations, visiting the Museum du Pastel, or shopping for a piece of this blue gold to take home, Toulouse offers a unique and enriching journey for every visitor.
In conclusion, Pastel, or Blue Gold, is not only what Toulouse is famous for, but it’s also deeply rooted in the city's identity and development. This heritage, seen in the city's landmarks, industries, and souvenirs, makes Toulouse an exciting destination for history and culture lovers alike. Don't miss out on this incredible piece of the city when planning your Toulouse adventure.
