The Pic du Midi has been submitted for consideration as a Unesco World Heritage Site.
More than 300 local officials, scientists, tourism operators and students from the Hautes-Pyrénées were invited to a special reception at the French presidential palace in Paris, to mark the submission of the mountain observatory’s Unesco application on June 8, 2026.
“It was with great pride that we experienced this unforgettable evening at the Élysée,” said Daniel Soucaze des Soucaze, General Director of the Pic du Midi.
“The moment represents a new stage in an effort started back in 2012. For 14 years, passionate and committed teams have been working to have the universal value of this unique site recognised.
“The journey so far has been immense, but the best is yet to come. We are now looking ahead to July 2027, with the hope of seeing the Pic du Midi officially inscribed as a World Heritage Site,” Mr Soucaze des Soucaze added.
The Élysée event placed strong emphasis on local involvement, with schools from Bagnères-de-Bigorre, Lourdes and Tarbes presenting projects linked to regional industries such as mountain tourism, hospitality, engineering trades, and creative work inspired by Pyrenean wool and space science.
Local producers also showcased regional specialities including honey, cheeses, black pork and mountain trout, underlining the area’s agricultural identity alongside its scientific importance.
Panoramic views and astronomy experiences
Standing at 2,877 m, the Pic du Midi has hosted an accessible, working observatory for more than a century and is regarded as one of France’s most important mountain science platforms.
It is used for astronomical observation, climate research and public education, while also welcoming visitors.
Guests can reach the summit via a cable car to enjoy panoramic views of the Pyrénées and in clear conditions, see both the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.
The site also hosts exhibitions, guided tours and night-time astronomy experiences.
Weather conditions must be clear to enjoy panoramic views from the Pic du Midi mountain observatoryYannick Legodec
President Emmanuel Macron previously visited the site and supports its Unesco candidacy.
The official dossier has now been submitted as part of France’s wider effort to protect and promote its scientific and cultural heritage on the global stage.
If successful, the listing would add the Pic du Midi to France’s growing number of Unesco World Heritage locations, including the Canal du Midi and the Fortifications of Vauban.
