Can you visit the Château-Vieux in Bayonne?

No, the castle is an active military property and its interior is not open to visitors.

How old is the Château-Vieux?

Its foundations rest on a 2nd-century Roman enclosure, while the fortress itself was built starting in the late 11th century.

Who built the Château-Vieux?

The viscounts of Labourd built it on Roman towers, before later changes, notably under Vauban, altered its appearance.

Is the Château-Vieux a listed historic monument?

Yes, it has been listed since a decree of 7 November 1931.

Château-Vieux

Bayonne

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Where: Bayonne

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To make a day of it

Open within 20 km

Sleep nearby

Chateau de BrindosAccommodation on site5 km

This week in the agenda

Château-Vieux stands in Bayonne (Pyrénées-Atlantiques), in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France. The building is listed as a historic monument (dating recorded in the Mérimée database: 2nd century, 12th century, first quarter of the 17th century). Its opening hours and prices have not been verified at the source yet.

In Bayonne, the Château-Vieux stands at the corner of a 2nd-century Roman enclosure, incorporating three towers that were reinforced by the viscounts of Labourd from the late 11th century onward. The site was later reworked under Vauban, becoming a strongpoint in the town's defensive system after its keep was demolished. Still used by the military, it remains the seat of the local army command.

Written from Château-Vieux (Bayonne)

What to know

The castle is used by the French army and is not open for public visits.
The site is best seen from outside, along Bayonne's ramparts.
The monument has been listed as a historic monument since 1931.
The visible remains combine 2nd-century Roman masonry with later military additions, including work linked to Vauban.

Where this château is

Bayonne · Pyrénées-Atlantiques · Nouvelle-Aquitaine

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This châteauChâteaux within 40 km

Address

All. de la Poterne, 64100 Bayonne

Directions open from wherever you are, by car or public transport.

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Château phone number

+33 5 59 59 59 63

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The safest check before setting off: today’s hours, guided-tour availability, where to park.

4.2 / 5from 556 Google reviews

Heritage status: Listed historic monument (classé); Mérimée record PA00084332
Period of construction: 2nd century, 12th century, first quarter of the 17th century

In pictures

Frequently asked

Can you visit the Château-Vieux in Bayonne?: No, the castle is an active military property and its interior is not open to visitors.
How old is the Château-Vieux?: Its foundations rest on a 2nd-century Roman enclosure, while the fortress itself was built starting in the late 11th century.
Who built the Château-Vieux?: The viscounts of Labourd built it on Roman towers, before later changes, notably under Vauban, altered its appearance.
Is the Château-Vieux a listed historic monument?: Yes, it has been listed since a decree of 7 November 1931.