PAULHAC-EN-MARGERIDE

Located on the border between the Cantal and Haute-Loire departments, the commune of Paulhac-en-Margeride occupies a rather inaccessible area. This geographical location allowed it to play an undeniable role in the Resistance during the Second World War. The commune was awarded the Croix de Guerre with a bronze star in recognition of its role during those years of resistance against the Nazi enemy. A monument has been erected in honor of all the resistance fighters who fought in the commune, as well as a museum dedicated to the Mont-Mouchet Resistance. The village is also known for its connection to the Beast of Gévaudan. It is said that, in the 18th century, several attacks by the beast were recorded in the commune, two in particular. On August 11, 1765, two sisters, Marie-Jeanne and Thérèse Valet, were attacked by the Beast of Gévaudan, and only Marie-Jeanne managed to escape. Her courage earned her the nickname "the Maid of Gévaudan".