Tarbes, located in the Occitanie region of southwestern France, is a charming commune. Let's explore some interesting facts about this picturesque town:
Geography and Location:
- Tarbes lies in the Hautes-Pyrénées department and serves as the capital of Bigorre and the Hautes-Pyrénées.
- It nestles within the rich agricultural plain of the Adour River, approximately 155 kilometers (96 miles) southwest of Toulouse, 144 kilometers (89 miles) east of Bayonne, 70 kilometers (43 miles) southwest of Auch, and 20 kilometers (12 miles) northeast of Lourdes.
- The town enjoys an average elevation of 304 meters (997 feet) and offers breathtaking views of the Pyrenees mountains along the French-Spanish border.
Historical Significance:
- Tarbes has a rich history, dating back to Roman times when it was known as Turba or Tarba.
- It is part of the historical region of Gascony.
Economic Diversification:
- While Tarbes once had a strong industrial tradition, it now aims to diversify its activities.
- Sectors such as aeronautics and high tech are growing, and the town is also promoting its agri-food industry with specialties like Tarbais beans.
- No wonder it's affectionately called a "market town."
Local Attractions and Festivals:
- Tarbes offers a gentle way of life with palm-lined streets, authentic markets, and a touch of the Southwest accent.
- Explore its equestrian history through attractions like the Haras and the Museum of Hussars.
- Don't miss out on the town's vibrant festivals, including Tarba en Canta, Equestria, and Tarbes en Tango.
- Throughout the year, events like the Fêtes de Tarbes, Petits As, and Terro'Art keep the town buzzing.
- For more information, visit Tarbes Tourism.
Military Presence:
- Tarbes hosts the 1st Parachute Hussar Regiment and the 35th Parachute Artillery Regiment.
Whether you're drawn by its history, natural beauty, or lively events, Tarbes invites you to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity. 🌟🏰🌿
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Tarbes - Wikipedia
Tarbes is a commune in the Hautes-Pyrénées department in the Occitanie region of southwestern France. It is the capital of Bigorre and of the Hautes-Pyrénées. It has been a commune since 1790. It was known as Turba or Tarba in Roman times. Tarbes is part of the historical region of Gascony. Formerly of strong … See more
Location
Tarbes is a Pre-Pyrenees town within the rich agricultural plain of the river Adour, 155 kilometres (96 miles) southwest of Toulouse, 144 kilometres (89… See moreAir
The small Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport is situated 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) from the town … See moreThe population of the commune of Tarbes as of 1 January 2017 is 41,518 inhabitants, thus placing the commune as 12th of the Occitanie… See more
The name of the town was recorded in the 5th century as Civitas Turba ubi castrum Bigòrra (The town of Turba (possibly 'of the crowd') where the castle of Bigòrra is located). It was an… See more
Antiquity
In the 3rd century BC, the foundations of Tarbes began to emerge, based on the testimonies of the exhumed remains which had been buried. By need for salt trade, merchants who were likely Aquitanians travelled across the … See moreTarbes is the capital of the Hautes-Pyrénées department and concentrates various utilities including the court of grand instance, a branch of the Bank of France, the Chamber of Commerce and local industry, the Chamber of skilled crafts,… See more
Wikipedia text under CC-BY-SA license THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Tarbes - Tripadvisor
15 Best Things to Do in Tarbes (France) - The Crazy Tourist