NATIONAL MUSEUM AND ESTATE OF THE CHÂTEAU DE PAU

This residence, which was the birthplace of Henri IV in 1553, now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the town and the life of the sovereign. Built in the Middle Ages as a royal residence, the Château de Pau is a blend of Renaissance and classical styles.

Château de Pau has its origins in a feudal castle built on a first wooden fortification before the ^11th century. Gaston Fébus turned it into an impregnable fortress in the ^14th century. Château of the kings of Navarre and royal palace, the Renaissance added its architectural innovations: kitchen, courtyard of honor (paved and renovated), balconies... The only thing missing is the fabulous gardens that Jeanne d'Albret and Antoine de Bourbon created for the birth of their son Henri IV. Although he didn't live there long, his tortoise shell cradle is still there! Under Louis-Philippe, total restoration of the complex began, followed by extensive work under Napoleon III.

Now the Musée National d'Art et d'Histoire, you can visit a section devoted to Henri IV. You can explore the rooms where the king was born, discover personal objects that once belonged to him, and learn more about his reign and achievements. Some 12,000 works and objects are listed in the inventories, and the collections are extremely rich. The Gobelins tapestries and furniture, which recreate ceremonial apartments, as well as contemporary paintings and sculptures, are all part of the museum's reputation. After your visit to the museum, take a stroll in the estate's garden, which offers a magnificent view of the Pyrenees: an ideal place for a quiet stroll and a break in the shade of the trees. Finally, discover the historic French garden, with its flowers and kitchen garden, preserved and maintained by 12 expert gardeners. The Musée National and Château de Pau are historical and cultural gems well worth exploring. By combining the fascinating history of the château with the rich collections of the museum, you'll gain an in-depth understanding of the history and culture of this region. Regular cultural events and educational activities are organized for visitors of all ages. Self-guided or guided tours are available, and temporary exhibitions are sometimes organized. Check the program on the website to find out what's on during your visit.