Bethmale (; ) is a commune in the Ariège department of southwestern France.
Name The name is of Gascon origin: "Beth" (beautiful) and "Malh" (mountain, mountain side).
Organization The valley contains six villages in two communes:
Commune de Bethmale Ayet Samortein
Commune d'Arrien-en-Bethmale Aret Arrien Tournac Villargein
Located in the former province of Couserans, it is well known for its local culture, and for a cheese they produce, a semi-hard cow's milk cheese traditionally made from raw milk.
History The valley is characterized by a strong sense of local identity, expressed in the traditional costumes of the area, which includes the famous Bethmale clogs.
Population
Inhabitants of Bethmale are called Bethmalais in French.
See also Communes of the Ariège department
References