Gascogne

A part of France only since 1607, Gascony was called Aquitania by the Romans. Geographically, like all of Gaul, it divides into three parts. The swampy and sandy region of landes covered with scrub pine faces the Atlantic. To the south are the majestic Pyrenees, Béarn and the Basque country. At the center is the hilly Armagnac country between the Adour and Garonne rivers.

The Gascons are a hearty people who are portrayed in literature and on the stage as swashbucklers constantly

Bragging of crests and pedigrees—