AI Overview

Isérables is the Swiss mountain village whose inhabitants proudly embrace a local tradition linking them to a medieval Arab past. 

The “Bedjuis” of Isérables

• The nickname: Residents of Isérables, located in the canton of Valais, traditionally call themselves “Les Bedjuis”—a local dialect variation of the word Bedouin. Wikipedia +1
• The legend: Locals have long passed down the oral tradition that they are the direct descendants of Saracens (medieval European a term for Arab and Berber Muslims) who moved into the high Alpine passes and valleys between the 8th and 10th centuries. themuslimtimes.info
• The isolation: Because the vertiginous village clung to a steep slope overlooking the Rhône Valley and remained largely cut off from the outside world until the 20th century, their distinct culture, traditions, and folklore survived with little outside dilution. iswitzerland.net +1
• The science: The legend even prompted genetic researchers in 1993 to conduct DNA testing on the population of Isérables to see if any distinct genetic markers aligned with North African or Middle Eastern lineages from historical incursions, though everyday life in the village today centers around traditional Alpine and Valais heritage preserved in the local Isérables Museum. 

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