Bellocq

Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France

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Bellocq is a small commune located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in southwestern France, part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It sits near the Gave de Pau river and has a rich history marked by its strategic location on the border of English-controlled Guyenne in the 13th century.

The Château de Bellocq, built between 1250 and 1280 by Gaston VII Moncade de Béarn, is a notable ruined fortress that once served to protect the territory and house a large garrison. Bellocq is also associated with the bastide town built near the castle.

The area is part of the Béarn wine appellation and the Ossau-Iraty cheese production zone, reflecting its agricultural heritage. Although the castle was burned down in 1620 by order of King Louis XIII to prevent its use in religious conflicts, the ruins remain a historical monument. The commune is modest in size and population but has a deep cultural and historical significance nestled in the scenic southwestern French landscape.