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Château de Pau: A Royal Residence Through the Ages

Explore the Château de Pau, birthplace of Henri IV, with its stunning architecture, royal tapestries, and panoramic views of the Pyrenees.

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The Château de Pau, a majestic castle in the heart of Pau, France, has evolved from a medieval fortress to a royal palace and national museum. Birthplace of King Henri IV, it showcases a blend of architectural styles and houses an impressive collection of tapestries and artifacts.

A brief summary to National Museum and the Château de Pau - Official

  • Monday 9:30 am-11:45 am
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-11:45 am
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-11:45 am
  • Thursday 9:30 am-11:45 am
  • Friday 9:30 am-11:45 am
  • Saturday 9:30 am-11:45 am
  • Sunday 9:30 am-11:45 am

Local tips

  • Visit the gardens for free to enjoy stunning views of Pau and the Pyrenees Mountains.
  • Check the schedule for temporary exhibitions, which are often free to enter.
  • Take advantage of the free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Book in advance for an English guided tour if you have a group of 15 or more.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place Clemenceau in the city center, walk northwest on Boulevard des Pyrénées. Continue until you reach Rue du Château. The castle will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and 1.5 kilometers.

  • Public Transport

    From Gare de Pau (train station), take bus line 5 towards 'Château'. The bus ride takes approximately 2 minutes and departs every 15 minutes. Get off at the 'Pl. de la Monnaie' stop, a short walk from the castle. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Taxi

    From Gare de Pau, a taxi to Château de Pau takes approximately 1 minute and costs between €5-€7. Taxis are readily available outside the train station.

  • Driving

    From the A64 motorway, take the exit towards Pau/Coarraze. Follow signs for Pau city center, then look for signs directing you to 'Château de Pau' or 'Centre Ville'. The castle is located at Rue du Château, 64000 Pau. Public parking is available nearby, with fees typically around €1-2 per hour.

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Discover more about National Museum and the Château de Pau - Official

The Château de Pau, standing proudly in the center of the city, is an iconic symbol of Pau and its rich history. Originally founded in the Middle Ages, the castle has been expanded and transformed over centuries, reflecting a blend of medieval, Renaissance, Neo-Renaissance, and Neo-Gothic architectural styles. Initially a simple fortification in the 10th century, it evolved into a castle in the 12th century. Gaston Fébus, Count of Foix and Viscount of Béarn, transformed it into an impregnable citadel in the 14th century. During the Renaissance, the castle became a royal palace for the Kings of Navarre, especially with Henri II d'Albret and Marguerite d'Angoulême. Their grandson, Henri de Navarre (later Henri IV, King of France), was born here in 1553. Today, the Château de Pau is a national museum, classified as a Monument historique since 1840. Visitors can explore its historic rooms, admire the collection of royal tapestries from the 16th to the 19th centuries, and learn about the history and legend of Henri IV. The gardens offer scenic views of Pau and the Pyrenees.

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