Historically and culturally, the commune of Vals is part of the Lauragais, the ancient "Pays de Cocagne", linked to the cultivation of woad and considered the granary of Languedoc.

A small village of 93 inhabitants on the right bank of the Hers vif river, between Pamiers and Mirepoix, Vals is a charming little town covering an area of 413 hectares.