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In previous studies, the mean geothermal gradient of the Tlemcen region has been estimated as low (3.7°C/100m). The existing boreholes in the Remchi plain (North of the Tlemcen Mountains) reveal thermal waters (26-48°C) and a remarkable artesianism. To understand the hydrodynamics and origin of thermalism of this groundwater, we merged geophysical and physical-chemical data. Geophysical data allowed us to improve the resolution of the fault network, to estimate the thickness of various sandstone beds connected with the thermal reservoir and to delimit the productive aquifer. Chemical characteristics of waters have been used for a statistical analysis, which displayed two independent water clusters resulting from two hydrodynamic patterns throughout the aquifer. The hydrothermal analysis identifies the depth reached by water and the relationship between water circulation and the fault network. Comparison with previous studies allowed us to build a schematic geological model, which explains hydrodynamics, origin and role of this structure in the groundwater flow.

On november 3rd, 1997, a conference was held in Paris devoted to a review of the activities of "section 39 : Space, Territories and Societies", a CNRS commission which most French human geographers, along with some architects, urbanists and sociologists joined. The presentation of the research field "Geography and Culture" led to a strong discussion between the two reviewers in charge of the presentation and later with both of them and the public.This paper was written in reaction to this discussion. It is argued here that it is time for French geographers to stop focusing on methodological issues, for the situation is far more complex than just an opposition between deductive quantitative and nomothetic geography on the one side, and empirical, qualitative and idiographic geography on the other side. In fact, a deductive approach can rely on qualitative data only, and an empirical approach can lead to some theoretical developments. But one cannot deny that there is an urgent need for empirical geography to formalise its methodology. Also, in reaction to Professor Anne Buttimer´s remarks who, invited to react as a foreign expert, underlined that French cultural geography gives most of its attention to heritage and historical issues, some explanations to this situation are developed.