Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Bayonne's fortifications originated in the Gallo-Roman era, with a defensive enclosure of which towers and courtines remain. These remains, rebuilt in the 11th century by the Viscounts of Bayonne, integrate the Château-Vieux, which served as residence for kings of England such as Henry III, Edward I and Edward III. This site was also the place of detention of Du Guesclin in 1367, before passing under French control in 1451 with the entrance of Dunois.

In the 16th century, Henry IV ordered the construction of castate bastions (1599) under the direction of engineer Erard, to guard against Spanish attacks. These still visible works illustrate the military architecture of the period. A century later, Vauban, commissioned by Louis XIV in 1680, strengthened the existing system without radically changing it. He added advanced works, such as the bastions of the Spanish gate and a large horned work, while preserving Erard's structures.

Subsequent work, under Napoleon III, retained the heritage of the two engineers. The fortifications, classified as Historic Monument in 1886, protect a space extending from the Château-Vieux to the Sault Tower along the Nive. Their current state thus reflects almost 14 centuries of strategic adaptations, marked by Franco-Spanish conflicts and developments in military art.

Gallo-Roman remains, classified in 1886, coexist with medieval and modern ramparts, registered or classified between 1929 and 1931. The property shared between the municipality and individuals underscores the heritage and urban importance of this complex, located between avenue du 11-Novembre and the banks of the Nive.

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