Mission & Vision

In the middle of Gascony stands the proud Château de Lavardens. Military fortress of the Earls of Armagnac, then summer residence of Antoine de Roquelaure – a close friend of King Henry the fourth– this castle is an incredible example of Italian renaissance architecture. Every room is adorned with rare stone floors that each show a different pattern. Today, the castle belongs to a non-profit association whose mission is to restore it and preserve it, and to bring life into it. In that respect, Château de Lavardens hosts various exhibitions, events and cultural manifestations every year. All profits go to restoration work and organizing these activities. Around 30,000 visitors walk on those floors each year and it represents an important part of the region’s economic and touristic activities.

Actions Led

Since its creation, the Art Center of Château de Lavardens has organized exhibitions of great importance, displaying works of art by iconic artists, such as Camille Claudel and Salvador Dali. Some exhibitions also promote contemporary art and local artists, through various themes. For example, Ceramic art and Glass art proved to be two amazing exhibitions organized in Château de Lavardens. As for now, the new exciting project of the Art Center of Château de Lavardens is to create a never-before-seen exhibition of D’Artagnan and the Musketeers. It will showcase costumes, film posters and historical documents of the real man behind the myth. Events and activities will be created around this exhibition, as well as an innovative virtual reality device. This exhibition, both educational and entertaining, will be organized with the support of the Service Historique de la Défense and Fondation Pathé-Seydoux.

Projects that U.S. Donors can Support 

With their contributions, US donors can support the restoration works of Château de Lavardens, as well as the exhibitions and cultural activities organized within the castle.