In the middle of the Bidasoa River, which marks the border between Spain and France, there is a territory that changes nationality twice a year. This is Pheasants Island, a small strip of land measuring just under 7,000 square meters, whose sovereignty has been shared between the two countries for more than three centuries. According to the Idealista portal, this river island is one of the oldest examples of European diplomacy still in force.
Sovereignty officially changes every six months: from February to July it belongs to Spain, and from August to January it passes to French administration. Therefore, at the moment the island belongs to France and it will only be within three months that it will come under Spanish control. The site, located between the cities of Irun and Hendaye, has restricted access and cannot be visited by tourists or residents of neighboring areas.
A symbol of peace between two kingdoms
The history of Pheasant Island dates back to the 17th century. According to the same source, it was in this small territory that, in 1659, the Treaty of the Pyrenees was signed, putting an end to the war between France and Spain, which had lasted for more than two decades. The agreement also sealed the marriage between the French king Louis XIV and the Spanish infant Maria Teresa of Austria, reinforcing the diplomatic commitment between the two crowns.
From that moment on, the island became a symbol of reconciliation and a unique example of joint administration. The model of shared sovereignty, known as international condominium, has remained unchanged since then, being considered a rare case in European political history.
Although alternating ownership is formal, the territory does not administratively belong to any specific municipality or province, operating under its own rules defined by both countries.
The publication adds that, due to its historical relevance and diplomatic symbolism, access to the island is highly controlled. Only military authorities and government representatives are permitted to enter, particularly during sovereignty transition ceremonies.
City observing change
Irún, on the Spanish side of the Bidasoa River, is one of the closest locations to the island and where the history of this territory is most felt. The website explains that the city combines Basque tradition and modernity, benefiting from its border location with France. It is also a cultural, commercial and linguistic connection point between the two nations.
For the inhabitants of Irún, the presence of the island has a symbolic value. It represents a historical connection between peoples and an example of peaceful cooperation on a continent marked by centuries of conflict.
Small territory, but with great meaning
Although uninhabited and almost invisible from a distance, Faisões Island continues to be an area of high diplomatic value. According to , maintaining this agreement is proof that coexistence between nations is possible, even in shared territories. The next change of administration is scheduled for three months from now, when the Spanish flag will once again give way to the French.
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