Scanners patrolling the shores during the summertime, in search of coins, specifically discarded change among the sand and waves.
In the picturesque coastal towns of France, retiree Alain can be found five times a week, armed with a metal detector and a shovel, scouring the sands for hidden treasures. Alain is one of the millions of metal detector enthusiasts across Europe, a community that is growing steadily under the umbrella of the French Federation of Metal Detection (FFDM).
The FFDM estimates that nearly two million people in Europe share Alain's passion for metal detecting. In France alone, the federation boasts over 1,300 members, with an estimated 250,000 "passionate enthusiasts" according to their claims.
Metal detecting on French beaches is a solitary pursuit, from the north to the south, with detectorists like Alain often venturing out alone. The activity is not without its impact, as it can both aid in the preservation of cultural heritage and cause environmental disturbance.
France has strict regulations in place to protect archaeological sites and natural environments. Metal detecting on beach areas usually requires prior authorization from cultural heritage authorities or local municipalities. Unauthorized detecting and artifact removal are illegal, as French law prioritizes the protection of archaeological heritage under the "Code du patrimoine" (Heritage Code).
Detectorists must adhere to rules that prevent excavation or disturbance without permits. This regulatory framework aims to balance recreational use with the preservation of beaches and underwater cultural heritage, limiting harm while allowing responsible detecting.
A prefectural authorization is required to detect metal legally. Alain, who has been metal detecting since 6 a.m., has made €2 so far. He picks up items like beer caps, broken glass bottles, and coins from the beach, but not fortunes. The items he finds, although seemingly insignificant, are potentially dangerous for children and people walking on the sand.
Despite not doing it for monetary gain, Alain enjoys metal detecting. He found car keys and door keys last week, and considers the activity akin to hobbies like fishing or shell collecting. However, he expresses concern over the disrespect shown towards the beach, citing examples of dogs on the beach despite a ban and littering of cigarettes.
The beach, according to Alain, would become a dump without regular cleaning. The activity of metal detecting helps in this regard, as it contributes to the cleaning of the beach. In April, Alain and others found a shell at Le Portel, a testament to the treasures that can be discovered.
However, not all communes permit metal detecting. The power to prohibit the activity lies with the local authorities, adding another layer of regulation to the hobby. Despite the challenges, Alain continues his routine, hopeful for the next hidden gem he might uncover on the French coast.
- Despite metal detecting being a solitary activity, Alain views it as similar to outdoor hobbies like fishing or shell collecting, which are part of the French lifestyle, particularly in home-and-garden and outdoor-living spaces.
- While France has strict regulations to protect archaeological sites and natural environments, metal detecting on French beaches, when done responsibly and with the required authorization, can aid in preserving these environments by contribuing to the cleaning of beaches, thus enhancing the French lifestyle.
