Since its foundation in 1969 by the Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne, this ecomuseum has established itself as an emblematic place of the Landes heritageattracting between 80,000 and 100,000 visitors a year.
A return to the past: the ecomuseum as an open-air museum
In Marquèze, visitors are invited to relive the daily life of the inhabitants of the Great Earth in the 19th century. On a vast territory of 25 hectares, the ecomuseum shows a meticulous reconstruction of the way of life of the shepherds-farmers of the time The landscapes, buildings and agricultural practices are faithfully preserved or reconstructed, offering an authentic immersion in the history of the region.
Everyday life reinvented: discovery of themes
In Marquèze, visitors can discover four major themes that structure the museum experience:
Rich programming of museums and events
Each season is marked by a varied program, including demonstrations in traditional clothing, themed exhibitions and special events. These activities allow visitors to discover the ancestral traditions and know-how of the region, while enjoying friendly and enriching moments with family or friends.
Promotion of the Gascon language
The ecomuseum gives a special place to the Gascon language, highlighting its importance in the culture and identity of the Landes de Gascogne. Awareness initiatives and language activities are offered to visitors to discover and preserve this a unique linguistic heritagethereby contributing to its transmission to future generations.
Personalized welcome for all audiences
Aiming to make the visit accessible to everyone, the ecomuseum offers guided tours, activities suitable for children and people with reduced mobility, as well as special programs for school groups and local associations. Every visitor is welcomed with attention and kindness, guaranteeing a memorable experience for everyone.
Special attention to biodiversity
Environmental protection and biodiversity awareness occupy a central place in Marquèze. Concrete actions are taken to preserve the local ecosystem and sensitize visitors to the environmental problems of the region. Through exhibitions, workshops and outdoor activities, visitors are invited to discover the natural wealth of the Landes de Gascogne and to become actors committed to its preservation.
A train journey: access to Marquèze
To access the eco-museum, visitors embark on a train journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Landes de Gascogne. The vintage cars, classified as Historical Monuments, offer an authentic experience, transporting visitors to the past just arrived in Marquèze. This train journey is already a memorable experience, allowing visitors to gradually immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of the ecomuseum.
The Pavilion: an essential cultural center
Opposite the old Sabers station is the Pavillon de Marquèze, a space dedicated to exhibitions, the preservation of collections and cultural events. Built in 2008 by the architect Bruno Mader, this place houses a permanent exhibition tracing the history and evolution of the territory, as well as temporary thematic exhibitions, offering visitors a complete vision of the cultural and historical richness of the Landes de Gascogne . Conferences, meetings and cultural events are also organized here throughout the year, making the Pavilion a essential cultural hub In the region.
The Écomusée de Marquèze constitutes a true immersion in the history, culture and nature of the Landes de Gascogne. With its commitment to heritage preservation and environmental awareness, it embodies an essential place of education and discovery for all lovers of history and nature. Immerse yourself in the past and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this unique eco-museum.
