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Château de Mauvezin: A Medieval Fortress

Explore the medieval Château de Mauvezin, a historic fortress offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the past of the Pyrenees region.

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The Château de Mauvezin is a restored medieval castle in the commune of Mauvezin, in the Hautes-Pyrénées department of France. Originally built in the 11th century, it was reconstructed by Gaston Fébus in the late 14th century and stands as a striking example of medieval military architecture.

A brief summary to Château de Mauvezin

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle's ramparts and towers.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the castle's history and architecture.
  • Visit on a Sunday in the summer to enjoy the medieval animations with jugglers and musicians.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Lannemezan, take the D939 towards Mauvezin. The drive is approximately 15 km and takes about 20 minutes. Upon arriving in Mauvezin, follow the signs to the Château. There is free parking available near the castle. Be aware that the road leading to the castle is steep and narrow.

  • Public Transport

    From Toulouse, take a train to Lannemezan. From Lannemezan, you can take a taxi to Mauvezin. The taxi ride is approximately 15 km and costs around €25-€35. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lannemezan to Capvern and walk 5km. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

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Discover more about Château de Mauvezin

The Château de Mauvezin, a commanding fortress, dominates the Toulouse-Bayonne route from its crenellated keep. The site has been occupied since protohistory, transformed into a castrum in the Middle Ages, and later into a castle. The castle's history is intertwined with significant figures such as Gaston Fébus, who restored it around 1380. Gaston Fébus, the sovereign Viscount of Béarn and Count of Foix, rebuilt the castle around 1380, not long before killing his son Gaston Foix-Béarn in a fit of anger. Although without direct descendants, Gaston Fébus saw his castle remain in the family of Béarn-Foix, future kings of Navarre. Henri IV inherited it. Inside, the inner courtyard exemplifies medieval military architecture, showcasing replicas of war machines. The castle also houses a museum dedicated to Gaston Fébus, offering insights into the history and folklore of Béarn and Bigorre. The keep, standing 37 meters high, provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle's walls, three meters thick at the base, and the ramparts, topped with machicolations, contributed to its formidable defensive capabilities. Over the centuries, the castle fell into disuse and was dismantled, with its stones used for local buildings. However, in 1906, M. Ribal, the mayor of Masseube, bought and restored it, creating a Gascon museum. Today, the Château de Mauvezin is a listed monument historique, attracting visitors with its rich history and stunning architecture.

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