Across the French countryside, nestled near the Swiss border, lies the captivating commune of Gex. Gex is more than just a charming town. It’s a place steeped in history, a crossroads of cultures, and a testament to resilience. Gex sits just a stone’s throw from Switzerland, a mere 5 km, and a short 16 km from the bustling city of Geneva. This proximity has shaped its destiny, intertwining its story with that of its neighbors.
Gex’s history stretches back millennia. Traces of inhabitants date back to 1800 BC. Centuries later, around 220 BC, a formidable group of Gallic warriors, the Gaesatae, called this area home. The Romans then incorporated Gex into their vast Gaul. Gex gave its name to the Pays de Gex, a region that has changed hands throughout history, belonging at various times to France, Switzerland, and the Duchy of Savoy. This tug-of-war over the Pays de Gex reflects the region’s strategic importance.
In the 13th century, Gex became part of a dowry. Léogette of Geneva, Lady of Gex, married Simon of Joinville. The Joinville family established a castellan and a judge in Gex, solidifying their control over the town. The 14th century brought conflict. Savoy captured Gex and its castle in 1353, holding it for nearly two centuries. The Pays de Gex became a part of the Savoyard state. Then, in 1536, the Canton of Bern invaded, establishing a bailiwick at Gex, complete with a bailiff and protective walls built in 1550. The treaties of Nyon (1563) and Lausanne (1564) returned the Pays de Gex to the Duchy of Savoy. However, the Genevans seized it again in 1589. Savoy, aided by Spain, attempted to reclaim the region but failed. Gex suffered during this period, enduring devastating fires in 1590.
A new chapter began in 1601. Under King Henry IV, the Treaty of Lyon transferred control of the Pays de Gex to France. The 20th century brought further complexities. The 1815 Treaty of Paris placed Gex within the Swiss customs region and declared it neutral. This arrangement was later annulled by the Treaty of Versailles. A dispute over customs offices arose, leading to a case before the Permanent Court of International Justice, which ruled in favor of Switzerland. A compromise was finally reached in 1932. Gex’s story also includes the creation of the commune of Mijoux in 1910, carved from Gex’s own territory. Gex continues to thrive. Its economy is linked to Geneva, its primary export market. Every Saturday, the town square comes alive with a vibrant weekly market. Gex remains a fascinating blend of history, culture, and resilience, a small town with a big story.