Hautes-Pyrénées, Department in Occitania, France
Hautes-Pyrénées is an administrative division in Occitania, France, stretching from the Pyrenees in the south to agricultural plains in the north. Peaks such as Vignemale rise above 10,800 feet (3,200 meters), while valleys and thermal resorts define the middle zone.
The division was created on March 4, 1790, during the French Revolution from territories of the former province of Gascony. Bertrand Barère de Vieuzac played a leading role in establishing and organizing the new administrative area.
The name Hautes-Pyrénées refers to the southern mountain ranges that shape the territory and give it a distinct character. Lourdes attracts pilgrims from around the world who pray at the Grotte de Massabielle and join processions through the town.
The territory divides into three arrondissements: Argelès-Gazost, Bagnères-de-Bigorre, and Tarbes, together covering nearly 470 communes. Thermal springs draw visitors to several towns, where spa treatments and relaxation are offered.
The Col du Tourmalet rises above 6,900 feet (2,100 meters), making it the highest paved mountain pass in the French Pyrenees. It appears regularly in the Tour de France route and presents cyclists with a famous challenge.
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