The interesting tale of Pheasant Island that changes countries every six months

You might be surprised after reading the title! Well, you must as the story behind the Pheasant Island is as interesting as it can get. Pheasant Island is an uninhabited river island set in the Bidasoa River which flows between France and Spain.

A condominium island between France and Spain
The island is basically a condominium that was set by the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659. The treaty was signed jointly by Spain and France, wherein the condominium went officially under the governance of the naval commanders of Spain from 1 February to 31 July and of France from 1 August to 31 January. So because of this treaty, the island remains under Spain for six months and under France for another six months.

The island which is 660 ft long and 130 ft is eroding now. However, it has witnessed several historic moments.
A look at the historical meetings and events held on the island:

1) One of the most important events that took place here was the signing of the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659. A series of 24 conferences were organised on the island between Luis de Haro, a Grandee of Spain and Cardinal Mazarin, Chief Minister of France. Following the treaty, a monolith was constructed right in the middle of the island to commemorate the meeting.

2) This is the same island where Louis XIV (King of France) met his wife Maria Theresa of Spain (1638–1683).

3) Then in 1721, King of France Louis XV met his intended bride Mariana Victoria of Spain on this island. But they never got married.