The castles of the Hautes-Pyrénées

Whether you're a fan of old buildings or simply curious, the Hautes-Pyrénées region has a rich past to tell you about. You'll undoubtedly be impressed by these monumental buildings, still standing proudly, or these vestiges of a troubled era that haven't stood the test of time. We'll take you on a journey through time to discover these castles, fortresses, and palaces that have survived the ages to tell us the story of the Hautes-Pyrénées region.

Opening photo: © Philipimage | AdobeStock

Photos of the article © Guide Toulouse Pyrénées, unless otherwise stated

Medieval towers, witnesses to the first fortifications in the Hautes-Pyrénées

During the fortification of the mottes-castles, stone towers gradually replaced the wooden constructions of yesteryear. These were generally defensive towers, placed at the top of a hill. At the foot of the hill, surrounding walls were gradually erected to protect a few buildings, intended to ensure the survival of peasants and warriors. These towers still mark the landscape of the Hautes-Pyrénées today. Here are a few examples:

• The 11th century tower and the ruins of the ramparts of Tramezaygues;
• The tower of Agos-Vidalos, from the 12th century ;
• The 12th century Avezac tower, in Allezac-Prat-Lahitte;
• The 12th century Héchette tower in Hèches;
• The Vieuzac tower, in Argelès-Gazost, built in the 13th century and maintained until the 18th century ;
• The Angles Tower, from the 14th century.

The village of Tramezaïgues ©Father Igor CC BY-SA 3.0

The fortified castles of the Middle Ages

Lourdes Castle

The Château fort de Lourdes is probably the most emblematic of the Pyrenean castles. Built in the 11th century, it has retained its medieval architecture and has been preserved, despite the attacks it has suffered. Converted into a museum, it offers you an overview of Pyrenean history, through everyday objects, festive costumes, furniture and trades...

For children, fun tours, in the form of puzzles, are planned by age group. You can also enjoy the outdoors in the botanical garden and admire the magnificent panorama on the terraces and esplanades of the castle.

Lourdes Castle

Bramevaque Castle

Bramevaque Castle was the stronghold of the Counts of Comminges. Its history is poorly documented, but over time, legend has filled in the gaps. Amidst the ruins of the old 11th century fortress, you can enter the tower where Marguerite, the Countess of Comminges, was imprisoned by her husband. It is very well preserved and open to the public. The view from the top of the keep is magnificent. The medieval village below is also worth a visit, especially its 12th ^- century church.

Bramevaque Castle ©Father Igor CC BY-SA 3.0

Black Prince's Castle

The Château du Prince Noir is a beautiful manor-style residence, converted into a bed and breakfast. Originally, a tower was built there in the 11th century, on the heights of the village of Arcizans-Avant. The castle took its name during the Hundred Years' War, on the occasion of its occupation by Edward of Woodstock, who was called the "Black Prince". After several centuries of abandonment, it was rebuilt in the 20th century, in its current form.

Mauvezin Castle

Mauvezin Castle is a former Castelnau. Its construction began in the 12th century with a tower, then its fortifications evolved until the 14th century, thanks to Gaston Fébus. Its strategic position was highly coveted and it changed hands many times. The lack of interest of its owners finally got the better of it and by the 20th century, it was only a shadow of its former self. It was finally saved by an association that implemented a formidable restoration and still manages the site today. You can visit it all year round. During the summer season, it comes alive with shows and medieval reenactments.

Montaner Castle

Montaner Castle is the finest example of 14th century Fébusian architecture. And for good reason: Gaston Fébus had grand plans for this fortified castle. Its vocation as an administrative capital didn't stop this great military strategist from fortifying the site in a distinctive style! A huge 40-meter red brick tower overlooks the hill, offering an exceptional panorama of the surrounding area and as far as the Pyrenean peaks.

Although only the great tower and part of the outer wall remain of the fortifications, the site offers an impressive setting for events and activities. Each week, the theme changes, allowing you to rediscover the site in a new light and better understand life in the medieval period. The tower is only accessible via guided tour, which explains the castle's history.

Photo: ©Château de Montaner

Beaucens Castle

Beaucens Castle was built in the 14th century. Although it was inhabited until the 17th century and renovated to suit the tastes of different eras, only a tower and ramparts remain. There is an astonishing legend about an eagle carrying a trout that put an end to a siege... Curiously, it now houses a zoological park, the "Eagle Keep". This park is dedicated to the preservation of birds of prey. It presents educational shows to help you learn more about them.

Beaucens Castle ©Lesley Williamson

Mauléon-Barousse Castle

The Château de Mauléon-Barousse is a beautiful building, built in the 11th century, but still inhabited and therefore remodeled many times until the 20th century. It is a private residence, which cannot be visited, but you can admire it while walking in the charming village of Mauléon-Barousse. Many streams converge there, offering a bucolic setting. You can also visit the Maison des Sources, a museum on the sources of the Barousse.

Sainte-Marie Castle

In Esterre, the Château Sainte-Marie dates back to the 10th century, but it was modified until the 14th century. In the 15th century, it was abandoned and never regained its former splendor. It offers a lovely stroll and a beautiful panorama of the valley.

The beautiful residences of the classical era

Gardères Castle

The Château de Gardères is a beautiful 18th century building. Its origins are older, but only archives remain. The castle was completely rebuilt in a classical style. Guided tours are organized during the summer and during events. You can also see very beautiful "French-style" gardens. Younger children will enjoy the farmyard animals and discovering old vegetables in the vegetable garden.

Garderes Castle ©Bollystolly CC BY SA 4.0

Miramont Castle

Miramont Castle is a family home, built between the 17th and 18th centuries on the former fortified castle of Adast. Still inhabited, it can only be visited during Heritage Days.

You're now ready to use the old stones of the oldest buildings in the Hautes-Pyrénées. We hope you enjoy your discoveries!

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