Donjon des Aigles (Eagles' Dungeon)
Photos by: moofloops
Music by: Sigur Rós Hoppípolla
All of these photos were taken by me on May 27, 2007 in the Hautes Pyrénées section of southwestern France at the Eagles' Dungeon. The reason I chose this song by Sigur Rós is because of the rainy day my fiancée and I had during our visit. Plus, it is a great song!
The Castle is atop a peak on one of the mountains in the area and the views are breathtaking. Take a look at the website for pictures of that because I was so caught up with the birds I totally forgot. Not a big deal though.
The visit with the show is only €10 and kids get in for €6. Definitely worth the price. I recommend everyone try to visit this place at least once in their life, especially when or if you have children.
I hope you enjoy the information and of course the photos I've selected to show.
-- History --
Built around the year 1000, the Castle of Beaucens was at various epochs converted and enlarged. For many centuries it was the home of the Viscounts of Lavedan. In the XVI century, during the upheavals brought about by the reformation, the Castle was plundered and the title deeds destroyed. One of the most unpopular Viscounts of Lavedan was the 31st and last one, the Prince of Rohan-Rochefort. When the Revolution started, he fled to Austria. In 1972, the Castle was set ablaze and the documents that disappeared will keep its mysteries forever. After the earthquake in 1854 the Castle of Beaucens was renovated by M. Achill Fould and nowadays belongs to the Eagles' Dungeon.
-- Setting (from website) --
There is a medieval castle in the Pyrénées that has been standing on a rocky outcrop for the last 10 centuries overlooking the village of Beaucens in the Hautes Pyrénées. It houses one of the most prestigous collections of birds of prey : Kites, Vultures, Eagles, Fish Eagles, Falcons and Buzzards with Parrots in the summer. Situated just 15 kms from Lourdes, near Argelès-Gazost, the imposing ruin offers a panoramic view of the valley and the Pyrenean range.
Between the ancient walls of the castle you will discover one of the most prestigious collections of diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey from around the world. The birds of prey are on show in an attractive and original way, most of them without cages or bars, following the traditional methods of falconry. You can observe and take photographs at a close distance. For each species (approximately 50), parchments are displayed giving you information on the general biology of each bird.
Each afternoon, an exceptional bird show presented with background music is held - rich on beauty and emotion. You can admire the lords of the air that fly before you at complete liberty. Falconry is a long and difficult art to learn and is inherited from the falconers of the Middle Ages. It is based on patience and gentleness and you will enjoy watching these magnificent birds at liberty.