Urban exploration (urbex) allows you to discover abandoned places full of history. The Hautes-Pyrénées , located in the Occitanie region, is full of fascinating sites for urbex enthusiasts. This article presents five must-see sites in the Hautes-Pyrénées, each offering a unique and captivating experience.
1: The Praz-Coutant Sanatorium
History and Importance Built in the early 20th century, the Praz-Coutant Sanatorium welcomed tuberculosis patients. Closed in the 1970s, this place is now an emblematic urbex site.
Site Features
- Architecture: Hospital buildings, treatment rooms and dormitories.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are well preserved, others in ruins.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and precaution.
2: The Old Zinc Mine of Pierrefitte-Nestalas
An Industrial Vestige The former Pierrefitte-Nestalas zinc mine is an abandoned industrial site offering a unique setting with its underground galleries and deserted infrastructure.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Mine galleries, production workshops and mining equipment.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some structures remain accessible.
- Access: Access requires caution and preparation, as some areas may be unstable.
3: Lourdes Castle
An Abandoned Historic Site Lourdes Castle , although partially restored, has abandoned and lesser-known sections that attract urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Architecture: Towers, ramparts and vast medieval halls.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are well preserved, others in ruins.
- Access: Access is relatively easy, but you must be careful and respect prohibited areas.
4: Anclades Psychiatric Hospital
An Abandoned Place of Care The Anclades psychiatric hospital , abandoned for several decades, is a captivating site for urbex with its deserted rooms and ruined buildings.
Site Features
- Architecture: Hospital buildings, large rooms and dormitories.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some structures are still accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted, but explorers often find ways to enter discreetly.
5: The Abandoned Village of Trébons
A Place Out of Time The abandoned village of Trébons is a collection of deserted houses offering a total immersion in a bygone past, perfect for urban explorers.
Site Features
- Architecture: Stone houses, church and other village buildings.
- State of Disrepair: Some houses are still standing, others are in ruins.
- Access: Access is free, but requires a hike to get there.
Conclusion
The Hautes-Pyrénées offer a multitude of fascinating urbex sites for urban exploration enthusiasts. From the Praz-Coutant Sanatorium to the old Pierrefitte-Nestalas zinc mine, via the Château de Lourdes and the Anclades psychiatric hospital, each place offers a unique adventure. By respecting the safety rules and the properties, you can experience memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this department. Happy exploring!
