Izeste

Presentation

Iseste, a rich heritage

Iseste, on the banks of the Gave

Perched at an altitude of 410 metres, the charming village of Iseste (or Izeste) stretches along the Gave d’Ossau.
It has developed around three historical treasures: the Romanesque church, the 16th-century secular abbey and the castle perched on its rocky outcrop, which served as the valley’s former watchtower.

The church, the abbey and the old pillory: witnesses to the past

The Romanesque church and the secular abbey offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient architecture.

The abbey, in particular, features a door with white marble keystones carved with the signs of the zodiac (a real gem for art and history enthusiasts).

The village still has an old pillory dating from 1682, where the lord once administered justice.
Visitors can still see the marks left by the old chain links that held prisoners in place.

Nearby, to the west of the village: the Zoum plateau.

Famous figures

Iseste is also the home of the De Bordeu family, including Théophile De Bordeu, who was a renowned physician to Louis XV.

Source: CCVO