It is difficult to be precise
as to the origins and type of the population that settled around the Cantal.
Different populations came from Aquitaine, the north east, the Rhône Valley via
the Cézalier and Alagnon, from the south crossing the Causses and to a moderate
degree from Limousin. They coexisted around the Massif Cantal and gradually mixed. It appears that the resulting type is predominantly a Mediterranean
race, Iberian or Ligurian. This is characterised by a round, or brachycephalic
head, dark hair and eyes and a short, squat build. The persistence of this human
type in the Cantal suggests that contributions from following immigrants were
modest.
Walking in
the Cantal for information on walking and walks in France
and the Cantal, accommodation, food and wine.
