On the rocky spur of Mauroux, traces of a medieval castle, sections of fortified walls and a covered passage have been preserved. The history of its architecture continues with two churches featuring distinct characteristics; astronomy evenings and produce from Ladouce add further points of interest. Mauroux therefore offers concrete points of interest for anyone interested in architecture, landscape, astronomy and local production.

Castelnau and Landscape

The old Castelnau of Mauroux lies at the edge of a plateau surrounded by deep ravines carved out by streams. On the rocky spur, the site of a medieval feudal castle and the remains of a castle, as well as sections of fortified walls, have been preserved. There are also 18th-century houses and a covered passage. These structures bring the village’s historic character to life, without limiting the description to the castle remains.

Below the plateau, there are several houses built in a troglodyte style. There is also a circular washhouse and a large livestock watering trough. The homes, walls and these practical structures offer different insights into the village’s settlement pattern. For your choice, this means that Mauroux offers not just individual historic buildings, but also an interplay of elevation, ravines and the built environment. The information about the ravines refers to the plateau and its surroundings shaped by streams; it does not indicate a specific walking route or walking time.

Two Churches, Different Architectural Histories

The church of Saint-Martin de Las Oumettes was rebuilt at a new site, more than 500 metres from the former church. Its structure is a rectangular hall measuring 21 metres long and 7 metres wide. Its length is therefore three times its width, and the choir has a flat end. The church has three altars, including altars dedicated to Saint Martial and Saint Francis of Assisi. The change of location, floor plan and dedications offer different points of interest if you are interested in architectural history.

The parish church of Saint Pierre-Saint Paul offers a different point of reference in time and space: it was built in the 15th century and stands outside the fortifications of Mauroux. Together, the two churches illustrate different aspects of the village’s history: Saint-Martin is distinguished by its reconstruction at a new site and clearly measured floor plan, while Saint Pierre-Saint Paul is notable for its construction date and location outside the fortifications.

Astronomy and Practical Information

The Ferme des étoiles adds another topic. This facility in Mauroux offers flight simulators, telescopes and a planetarium, and holds astronomy evening events. If you are interested in astronomy, the local offering includes both technical facilities and evening events. Architecture and landscape are another focus; comparing these themes can help you decide how to prioritise them during your stay, rather than treating them as a single programme.

The village also has a picnic area and toilets. This may be useful when planning a break, especially if you intend to spend longer in the village. If you rely on the toilets, check that they are available before your visit.

Farm Produce in Mauroux

At Ladouce, ducks and geese are raised using traditional methods and force-fed to produce foie gras. Foie gras and preserves are available at the farm or at summer markets; visits are by appointment. Arrange your visit with Ladouce in advance. The summer markets add a seasonal element to your plans, but this does not mean that fixed event dates can be inferred.

This food-related focus differs from the churches and the Castelnau: a visit to Ladouce requires an appointment, whereas the other points of interest mainly concern architectural history, the village setting and astronomy. You can therefore choose Mauroux based on the focus that appeals to you most, and arrange a visit for farm produce in advance.

Discover more destinations: Montégut-Arros, Réans, Giscaro, Arblade-le-Bas, Bazian, Panassac, Préneron, Sauveterre

For the main travel overview: Gers.