Creos

Creos is a small commune located in the southeastern part of the French department of Hautes-Alpes. Covering an area of 12.4 square kilometres, the village sits at an elevation that ranges from 1,200 to 1,870 metres above sea level, placing it within the alpine foothills. According to the 2019 national census, the population of Creos stood at 375 residents, a slight increase from the 350 recorded in 2010. The demographic structure is predominantly middle‑aged, with a small proportion of children and an aging cohort reflective of many rural communities in the region.

The history of Creos dates back to the Roman era, when the site served as a small trading post along a minor road connecting the high Alpine passes to the plains. The village entered the medieval chronicles in the 12th century under the influence of the Counts of Savoy. Stone architecture from this period, notably the Romanesque church of Saint‑Martin, remains a focal point of local cultural heritage. In the 19th century, the introduction of pastoral agriculture and the cultivation of hardy legumes and rye fostered modest economic growth, while tourism remained limited.

Today, Creos' economy is largely based on subsistence farming and seasonal agriculture, with small-scale vineyards producing a local red wine varietal. The commune maintains a primary school situated near the village centre and a community hall that hosts cultural events and market days. Public transport links connect Creos to the regional hub of Gap via a bi‑daily bus service, while access by car is available through the D913 route. The community also participates in joint environmental initiatives aimed at preserving alpine biodiversity and promoting sustainable tourism.

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