Pau Castle
Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Pau Castle, located in the heart of Pau city, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, is a historic castle renowned as the birthplace of King Henry IV of France and Navarre. Originally a medieval fortress strategically positioned on a hill overlooking the Gave river and the Hédas ravine, it evolved from a military stronghold into a Renaissance pleasure residence. The castle was significantly reinforced in the 14th century by Gaston Fébus, who added a distinctive 33-meter-high brick tower. During the Renaissance, the castle transformed under the influence of the Navarre court, notably Henry II and Marguerite d'Angoulême, who left their initials on its walls and ceilings. Although Henry IV was born here, he neither grew up nor died in the castle, yet his legacy imbues the site with historical significance. The castle underwent major restoration in the 19th century under Louis-Philippe and Napoleon III, who enriched it with neo-Renaissance and neo-Gothic elements and a vast tapestry collection. Today, it operates as the Musée national du Château de Pau, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually and preserving a rich collection of tapestries and Henrician artifacts, making it the most visited heritage site in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department.
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Tip: The castle is open daily with guided tours available in French, some requiring advance reservation especially during peak seasons. Visiting early in the day or during weekdays can help avoid crowds. Tickets can be purchased online for convenience, and discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The site also hosts special events and exhibitions, so checking the official website before visiting is recommended to enhance the experience.
Interesting facts
- •Henry IV of France was born at Pau Castle on December 13, 1553.
- •The castle features a 33-meter-high brick tower inscribed with 'Febus me fe' (Fébus made me) from the 14th century.
- •It was used as a gilded prison in 1848 for Emir Abd El-Kader, a notable Algerian leader.
- •The castle houses an extensive collection of tapestries dating from the 16th to 19th centuries.
- •Pau Castle is the most visited heritage site in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department, welcoming over 100,000 visitors annually.
History
Pau Castle was founded in the Middle Ages as a fortified military structure overseeing a strategic crossing of the Gave river.
In the 12th century, Gaston IV of Béarn enhanced the fortress with three towers, marking its growing importance.
The 14th century saw Gaston Fébus fortify the castle further, adding a signature tower.
During the Renaissance, the castle transitioned into a royal residence for the Navarre court, with significant architectural renovations.
Henry IV was born here in 1553, cementing the castle's historical fame.
After Béarn lost its independence in 1620, the castle declined until 19th-century restorations revived its grandeur, transforming it into a museum dedicated to Henry IV and Béarn's heritage.
Place Guide
The Fébus Tower14th century
A 33-meter-high brick tower built in the 14th century by Gaston Fébus, featuring the Béarnaise inscription 'Febus me fe', symbolizing the castle's medieval fortifications.
Renaissance Portal16th century
The main entrance portal adorned with the initials of Henry II of Navarre and Marguerite d'Angoulême, marking the castle's transformation into a Renaissance pleasure residence.
Tapestry Collection16th-19th centuries
A vast collection of tapestries from the 16th to 19th centuries, displayed to evoke the era of Henry IV and the castle's historical significance.
The Chapel
The castle's chapel, an important religious and architectural feature, reflecting the spiritual life of the castle's historic inhabitants.
Gardens and Parks
Extensive gardens and parks stretching westward along the Gave river, offering scenic views and a connection to the castle's historical landscape.
Contact
Phone: 05 59 82 38 00