PyrénéesAtlantiques

Pyrénées-Atlantiques is a department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. It is named for the Pyrenees mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, and it borders Landes to the north, Spain to the south, and the Atlantic coastline to the west. The prefecture and administrative center is Pau, and other major urban areas include Bayonne, Biarritz and Anglet. The department is divided into three arrondissements: Bayonne, Pau and Oloron-Sainte-Marie.

Geography and administration: The department comprises part of the western Pyrenees and the Basque Coast. The Adour river runs through Béarn to the Atlantic. The Pays Basque (Basque Country) is a historic cultural region within its territory, alongside the interior Béarn region. The Côte Basque along the coast is known for its beaches and surfing towns.

History: Created on 4 March 1790 during the French Revolution as Basses-Pyrénées, it was formed from Béarn and the northern Basque Country. In 1969 the department was renamed Pyrénées-Atlantiques. It reflects the interwoven heritage of Béarn and Basque culture, with ongoing recognition of bilingual or bi-cultural roots in parts of the area.

Population and culture: The department has about 650,000 inhabitants. Its economy relies on tourism, agriculture and services, with notable wine production around Pau (including the Jurançon AOC) and a strong Basque cultural presence. The coast features popular resorts such as Biarritz and Bayonne, and Basque cuisine, pelota and related traditions contribute to the regional identity.