Bielle

Presentation

Bielle, the former ‘capital’ of the valley

The History of Bielle

Bielle was the former ‘capital’ (capdulh) of the valley, where the jurats made all administrative and judicial decisions.
These decisions were recorded in the Red Book, which was kept in a chest in a special room in the church known as the ‘Ségrari’.

Its listed church

The church, dating from the 15th and 16th centuries and listed as a historic monument, is one of the village’s treasures.
Its nave, vaulted ceiling, windows and marble columns – which were once coveted by King Henry IV – bear witness to its importance and beauty.

Things to see

The 15th- and 16th-century houses, adorned with intricate carvings, invite you to stroll through the village.
The ‘La Jurade’ walking trail offers a pleasant stroll to discover these architectural treasures.
Younger visitors can also explore the streets of Bielle in a fun way thanks to the Tèrra Aventura geocaching trail.

Nearby, the Lac de Castet Nature Reserve is an ideal spot for a walk and to discover the saligue ecosystem, on the banks of the Gave d’Ossau.