Mont-de-Marsan Romanesque Houses

The Romanesque houses of Mont-de-Marsan are true medieval gems, built alongside the city walls and the Lacataye Keep. Take a look at the one in front of you, and you’ll quickly see why. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, these fortified houses were once part of the city’s defenses. In fact, if you look closely at the facade of the one beside you, you’ll see two narrow arrow slits on the upper floor, originally used to fire projectiles. These historic buildings were eventually purchased by the city, and classified as historical monuments between 1929 and 1942. Today, some are used as administrative offices, while others have been turned into museums, generally open only to school groups or by appointment. So you see, these architectural gems deserve to be protected and cared for.