Lajoux facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lajoux
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| Country | Switzerland | |
| Canton | Jura | |
| District | Franches-Montagnes | |
| Area | ||
| • Total | 12.38 km2 (4.78 sq mi) | |
| Elevation | 960 m (3,150 ft) | |
| Population
(Dec 2020 )
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| • Total | 671 | |
| • Density | 54.20/km2 (140.38/sq mi) | |
| Demonym(s) | Djoulais | |
| Postal code |
2718
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| Surrounded by | Les Genevez, Montfaucon, Saint-Brais, Saulcy, Rebévelier(BE), Châtelat(BE), Saicourt(BE) | |
Lajoux is a small and charming municipality located in the district of Franches-Montagnes. It is part of the canton of Jura in Switzerland. This peaceful village is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and traditional way of life.
Contents
Discovering Lajoux
Lajoux is a wonderful place to learn about Swiss village life. It sits high up in the mountains, offering amazing views. The people who live here are called Djoulais.
Where is Lajoux Located?
Lajoux is found in the western part of Switzerland. It is in the Jura canton, which is known for its rolling hills and forests. The village is nestled in the Franches-Montagnes district. This area is famous for its open landscapes and horse breeding.
Altitude and Surroundings
The village of Lajoux is quite high up. Its elevation is about 960 meters (3,150 feet) above sea level. This high location means it often gets snow in winter. The surrounding area is mostly made up of pastures and forests. These natural spaces are perfect for outdoor activities.
How Many People Live in Lajoux?
Lajoux is a small community. In 2003, about 665 people lived there. The population has remained quite stable over the years. This small size helps keep the village feeling friendly and close-knit.
What Language Do They Speak?
The main language spoken in Lajoux is French. This is common in the Jura canton. French is one of Switzerland's four official languages. Visitors will find that most people speak French in daily life.
A Glimpse into Lajoux's History
Lajoux has a long history, like many Swiss villages. It has been a farming community for centuries. The village has grown slowly over time. It has kept many of its old traditions.
Early Settlements
The area around Lajoux was settled a very long time ago. People likely lived here to farm and raise animals. The rich pastures were ideal for this. Early settlers built homes and farms that are still part of the village today.
Important Dates
While specific founding dates are hard to pinpoint, Lajoux developed steadily. It became an official municipality over time. This meant it gained its own local government. The community has always valued its independence.
Life and Economy in Lajoux
Life in Lajoux is closely tied to nature. Farming is a very important part of the local economy. Many families still work on farms.
Farming and Agriculture
The main economic activity in Lajoux is agriculture. Farmers here mostly raise cattle. They also produce milk and cheese. The green pastures provide excellent grazing land for animals.
Other Local Activities
Besides farming, some people work in local services. There are small shops and businesses in the village. Tourism also plays a small role. Visitors come to enjoy the peaceful scenery. They also like hiking and biking in the summer.
Local Government and Services
Lajoux has its own local government. A mayor leads the municipality. The current mayor is M. Michel Gogniat. The local government helps manage village services. These include roads, schools, and public safety.
Community Spirit
The people of Lajoux are known for their strong community spirit. They often come together for local events. Festivals and traditions are important here. This helps keep the village's unique character alive.
Things to See and Do
Even though Lajoux is small, it offers many things to explore. Its natural beauty is a big draw. There are also opportunities to learn about local culture.
Outdoor Adventures
The surrounding landscape is perfect for outdoor activities.
- Hiking: There are many trails for walking and hiking. You can explore forests and open fields.
- Biking: Cycling is also popular. The quiet roads are great for bike rides.
- Winter Sports: In winter, the area is good for cross-country skiing. The snow-covered landscape is beautiful.
Local Traditions
Lajoux celebrates various local traditions. These often involve music, food, and community gatherings. Learning about these traditions is a fun way to experience the local culture. The Djoulais people are proud of their heritage.
Images for kids
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The coat of arms of Lajoux
