A Glimpse into Nérac
Nérac is located in the Pays d’Albret, approximately 21 km north of Fourcés, accessible via the D29, D5, and D656. This historic region has witnessed the presence of Iberian and Celtic tribes, Romans, and later, Henri de Navarre, who left an indelible mark on the area.
The Journey Through History
In the early 11th century, the abbey monks of Condom granted the castle of Nérac to the Seigneurs d’Albret in return for their protection. The House of Nérac became notable as heirs to the throne of Navarre, selecting Nérac as their favored residence.
Beginning in 1527, Marguerite d’Angoulême, sister to King François I, transformed Nérac into a hub of humanism and renaissance, welcoming influential figures like Calvin and Clément Margot. The court of Catherine de Médicis and Marguerite de Valois, affectionately known as ‘la Reine Margot’, rivaled the grandeur of the Louvre, with intellectuals such as Agrippa d’Aubigné and Montaigne frequenting the castle.
Henri de Navarre, who would later become King Henri IV, cherished his time in Nérac, enjoying the delights of the region and establishing his reputation as a charismatic figure.
The Present-Day Allure of Nérac
Today, as the capital of the Land of Albret, Nérac retains its captivating charm. Visitors can explore the gothic Pont-Vieux (Old Bridge), which connects to the historical harbor along the Baïse River, as well as the elegant galleried houses nearby.
The city’s architecture, including its castle and winding streets, reflects the luxurious atmosphere of the Renaissance period. On the right bank, wander from Maison Sully through the quaint Pusoquette alley toward the Baïse or visit the ancient ramparts that still oversee the city.
Nature and Legend at Parc de la Garenne
A must-see is the serene Parc de la Garenne, located on the right bank of the Baïse. These gardens were established by Henri IV’s grandfather, built on the site of a Gallo-Roman settlement from the 3rd century. Remnants such as the Bains du Roy (the King’s Baths) and various fountains still exist today.
The Fontaine de Fleurette, the most prominent fountain, is steeped in legend. Fleurette, the king’s gardener’s daughter, fell hopelessly in love with Henri, who failed to keep a promised rendezvous. In her despair, she drowned in the Baïse, leading to the tale that inspired the English term ‘flirt’—or so the story goes.
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