Espiens is an ancient castle town that developed around the castle and the old 13th-century church. This municipality of 386 inhabitants offers an exceptional view of the vineyard landscape.
This village was built around the year 1000. Its name comes from the Latin word "ex-piaré," meaning "spied on," or from the Roman name "espie," meaning "sentinel." In the Middle Ages, Espiens was an important stronghold defended by a feudal castle.
The Tour d'Espiens is the only remaining part of the old castle. It is sometimes called the Tour de Nazareth. Originally, there were five square towers connected by a rampart walk. Now there are two towers left, one of which has been converted into a house and the other into a wine cellar. The fortress belonged to the noble Galard family since the 11th century. It was the Pardaillan family who inherited all its possessions.
Don't miss the Château de Mazelières, built in the 17th century by the Mazelières family. Located in the middle of the woods, it has a large square tower and a large dovecote. The Manoir d'Arconques is a 12th-century castle. It was made famous during the "Battle of Monluc's Troops."
A little anecdote: a long time ago, legend has it that three sisters lived in castles in Espiens, Xaintrailles, and Laplume. They communicated with each other using mysterious signals in the moonlight... which terrified the people of the region. In the Middle Ages, the lords of Espiens, Xaintrailles, and Laplume used this method of communication for a long time.
Découvrez l’Hôtel Henri IV, hôtel 3 étoiles de charme situé au cœur de Nérac, idéal pour un week-end, une étape touristique ou un séjour détente.
Envie d’une escapade en Albret ? Découvrez l’Hôtel Henri IV, hôtel 3 étoiles de charme situé au cœur de Nérac, idéal pour un week-end, une étape touristique ou un séjour détente.
