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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Protohistoric Precinct of Béguios is an archaeological monument located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department of New Aquitaine. This site, dated from the Protohistory, bears witness to the first forms of collective organization and defence in this territory. Its listing in the inventory of Historic Monuments by decree of 22 March 1983 underlines its heritage importance, although available sources remain limited on its precise characteristics or exact use.

The Protohistory, the pivotal period between the Bronze Age and Antiquity, sees the development in the south-west of France of fortified structures like this. These works were probably used to protect sedentary communities, their agricultural resources or places of worship. In the Pyrenees, these constructions also reflect the cultural exchanges between local populations and external influences, although few specific details specific to Béguios are documented.

The site is now listed in the Merimée database under the Insee 64105 code, with an approximate location (precision estimated at 5/10). The cadastral parcels concerned (B 817 to 820, 823 to 825, 835) suggest a significant territorial right of way, but no information is available on its current state, its accessibility to the public or any recent archaeological excavations.

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