Pau

Historic sites in Pau

Historic Heritage of Pau

Explore the architectural evolution of Pau through its most significant landmarks. The collection features the medieval Château de Pau, the 16th-century birthplace of King Henry IV, alongside grand 19th-century structures like the Hôtel de Gassion. Religious heritage is represented by the Neo-Gothic Saint-Martin and Saint-Jacques churches, and the Anglican Saint-Andrew’s, reflecting the city's historical British influence. The list also includes the Musée Bernadotte, dedicated to the Pau-born soldier who became King of Sweden.

Historic Heritage of Pau — Map

Flo641 / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Château de Pau

The Château de Pau is a castle in the centre of the city of Pau, the capital of Pyrénées-Atlantiques and Béarn.

UnknownUnknown author / Public domain

B

Hôtel de Gassion

A former luxury palace hotel built between 1867 and 1872 for Jean Lafourcade-Camarau. This grand 19th-century building has since been converted into a private residential complex.

Flo641 / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Église Saint-Martin

A 19th-century Neo-Gothic church designed by architect Émile Boeswillwald. It stands as a prominent religious landmark in the city center, replacing an older medieval structure.

GFreihalter / CC BY-SA 3.0

D

Église Saint-Jacques

Located near the Palais de Justice, this Neo-Gothic church features two slender spires and was constructed in the late 19th century to accommodate the city's growing population.

Flo641 / CC BY-SA 3.0

E

Pavillon des Arts

An exhibition space that houses the Architecture and Heritage Interpretation Center. It offers insights into the urban development and history of Pau.

F

Musée Bernadotte

The birthplace of Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, a Marshal of France who became King Charles XIV John of Sweden. The museum details his life and the history of the House of Bernadotte.

G

Église Anglicane Saint-Andrew’s

Built in the 19th century to serve the city's significant British expatriate community. It features distinctive Victorian-influenced architecture and remains an active place of worship.

Other Lists

Pau Essentials Historic Churches of Pau Authentic Regional Dining