Not to be missed: Arthous Abbey

Having closed in 2009 to be renovated, the abbey is re-opening this spring and is celebrating with an archaeology exhibition supplemented by excavation workshops.

Situated in Hastingues, on the borders of the Landes, the Basque Country and Béarn, Arthous Abbey oozes serene strength which is perfectly enhanced by the surrounding natural environment.

Constructed in 1167, the building is worth a visit for its architecture alone, with sculpted modillions featuring everyday themes, fantasy animals and other allegories.

Inside the Sainte-Marie church, the Land’archéo exhibition (on display until 28th April 2011) explains methods of excavation and analysis, and highlights the treasures discovered in the region: the lake site of Sanguinet, Gallo-Roman bronze in Dax, Magdalenian sculptures in Sourde-l’Abbaye...

Workshops are available by reservation only on Wednesdays and Sundays, to provide an introduction to the first movements of archaeologists.

And let’s not forget the International Ceramics Festival held each year on the weekend of Pentecost, providing three days of activities, lectures and gatherings of French and international potters and a large public audience. This year, it’s India’s turn to steal the show from 11th to 13th June.

However the programme continues throughout the year!

Visit the abbey web site to find out more, and say hello to the woman-snake from me, sssssssss...

(Photo credit: S. Zambon CG40)

>> Visit the religious heritage page of our web site.

Arthous Abbey
40300 Hastingues
+33 (0)5 58 73 03 89
arthous@cg40.fr
www.arthous.landes.org