Construction of the estate 1880 (≈ 1880)
Built by Émile Doyère for Henri de Lestapis.
2019
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 2019 (≈ 2019)
Registration by order of 2 January.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
"The property "La Castanhère" comprising a mansion, outbuildings, a greenhouse, a concierge and a park, as delimited in black on the plan annexed to the decree (cad. AL 8, 9, 18, 19, 22 to 24, 26, 27): registration by order of 2 January 2019"
Key figures
Émile Doyère - Architect
Manufacturer of La Castanhère in 1880.
Henri de Lestapis - Sponsor
Initial owner, initials engraved on site.
Origin and history
The Castanhera, whose name means chestnut grove in Bearnais, was built in 1880 by architect Émile Doyère (1842–1918), major figure of the South West. The latter, after working for the town of Pau and the diocesan buildings of Bayonne, designed this estate for Henri de Lestapis, whose initials adorn walls and fireplaces. The property combines a master's house with Opus spicatum facades (apparent galets), outbuildings in stylistic harmony, and a park with an unobstructed view of the Pyrenees. The monumental vestibule, topped by a gallery, and the interior decorations (glass windows, fireplaces carved of chestnuts) bear witness to meticulous care.
The outbuildings, including stables, hens, greenhouses and concierge, form a coherent whole thanks to their pebbly equipment. Originally, the estate also had an orchard and a park organized according to 19th century plans, now partially modified. The historic kitchen, located in the basement, and the accommodation of the employees (now rented) recall the domestic life of the period. Classified as a Historical Monument in 2019, the property remains in the hands of the sponsor's descendants, preserving its authenticity.
The architecture of La Castanhere reflects the influence of Doyère, marked by its passage into the South-West before its departure for Chile. Decorative elements, such as engraved chestnuts or original candelabras, reinforce the identity of the place. The site, located on a steep and wooded land, strategically exploits the topography to highlight the Pyrenean perspectives, characteristic of bourgeois residences of this period.
