Bescat

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Bescat, at the top of the moraine
  • View of the village of Bescat - © Adrien Basse-Cathalinat - Pays de Béarn

A hilltop village with stunning views


Perched on the valley’s terminal moraine, Bescat is a peaceful village offering panoramic views of the foothills and the Pic du Midi d’Ossau. 
Its beautiful old houses, clustered on the hillside, give it a genuine charm. 
Among its notable features is the 17th-century Saint-Lizier Church, best known for its altarpieces.
 

An ancient strategic site


The site of Bescat was likely chosen for its strategic position on an ancient transhumance route used by the Ossau herds.
The first mention of the village dates back to 1154, under the name ‘Bescad’, in a deed of enfeoffment to the Aragonese crown at Canfranc. 
At that time, the lords of Bescat were already prominent among the notables of the Ossau Valley, likely linked to the powerful Viscounts of Oloron.

The small village of Bescat has a rich and fascinating history, which you can read about in detail on the Bescat Town Hall website.
  • Bench on the hills above Bescat - © OTVO
  • View from the village of Bescat - © OTVO