It's hard to find a more original biscuit than the little Suisse de Valence! This compact biscuit in the shape of a man is apparently inspired by the uniform of Pope Pius VI's Swiss guards. Indeed, this Pope was held prisoner in Valence in 1799, before losing his life there. His heart and entrails are in fact still there, in the Cathedral of St ApollinarisinValence.
Made with shortbread containing small pieces of candied orange peel, the Suisse de Valence is also flavoured with orange blossom. In addition to a hat and a thin moustache, there are usually also eyes made from coffee beans, as well as uniform buttons made of currants.
This highly original biscuit can be enjoyed alone or with a coffee, or an ice cream for those with a sweet tooth.