Campan, commune in Hautes-Pyrénées, France
Campan is a small commune in the Hautes-Pyrénees situated in a broad valley surrounded by mountains on all sides. The stone-built houses line narrow winding streets, with forests and green fields creating a quiet backdrop that defines the character of this mountain settlement.
Campan's history extends back many centuries, with Roman and medieval influences tied to the county of Bigorre. Marble mining shaped the region for generations, and stone from these quarries was even used to decorate the Palace of Versailles.
The Mounaques are cloth dolls rooted in village traditions since the 1800s that appear throughout Campan on balconies, in gardens, and near streets. Villagers and visitors see them as part of daily life here, representing local customs and keeping handmade crafts alive through seasonal displays and community workshops.
Campan is easily accessible by road from Bagneres-de-Bigorre and offers small inns and guesthouses for overnight stays. The village works well as a base for mountain hikes and outdoor activities, with nearby trails leading to scenic spots and opportunities to explore surrounding villages during summer months.
A war memorial from 1926 depicts a grieving woman in local traditional dress, setting it apart from typical monuments by focusing on the perspective of families and women rather than military heroism. This uncommon portrayal reminds visitors of the human cost of conflict.
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