Since its inclusion on the French government’s Tentative List in October 2022, the Pic du Midi and its observatory’s bid to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site has made rigorous progress. The assessment process, led by the French World Heritage Committee (CFPM), has reached crucial stages, with a second hearing recently deemed ‘very favourable’ on 15 October 2024. The next hearing is already scheduled for 10 April 2025, a decisive phase in consolidating this ambitious project.
Pic du Midi at UNESCO: a second hearing unanimously commended
The first hearing, held in April 2024, focused on demonstrating the outstanding universal value (OUV) of the property. This fundamental element had already received a favourable opinion. The second hearing focused on aspects relating to the perimeters and legal protection of the site. The Groupement d’Intérêt Public (GIP), responsible for supporting the bid, presented a route that mainly included natural and geological boundaries. This perimeter is based on a ridge line encircling the mountain, its valleys and a rich collection of biotopes representative of the diversity of the Pyrenees.
The remarkably well-preserved high mountain landscapes of the Pic du Midi reflect the symbiosis between geology, botany and traditional practices such as pastoralism. What’s more, the Pic du Midi International Starry Sky Reserve (RICE) lends a unique dimension to this area, at the crossroads of science, the environment and culture.
Pic du Midi at UNESCO: already solid protection for a living heritage
As part of a rigorous protection framework, the candidate site enjoys exemplary conservation. The Pic du Midi and its observatory are located within listed sites and are part of the Pyrenees National Park. This status guarantees a balance between conservation and sustainable development, while respecting the age-old interaction between man and nature.
The strength of the bid also lies in the continuity of scientific activity at the Pic du Midi, supported by key players such as Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier University, the Syndicat Mixte du Pic du Midi and a tourism development model that will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2025. The observatory, which is owned by the French State, is an exemplary example of the synergy between research, education and heritage development.
Towards a collective and sustainable strategy
The third hearing, scheduled for April 2025, will be decisive. It will focus on the governance and progress of the management plan, assessing the organisation and resources deployed to ensure a sustainable future for the site. The creation of the GIP in July 2024 will make it possible to pool skills and resources to achieve this objective.
At the same time, local players are mobilising as part of the ‘Ateliers des Solutions’, an initiative orchestrated by the State under the aegis of the Hautes-Pyrénées prefecture. The aim of these workshops is to develop a shared vision and strategic guidelines for making the future World Heritage site a driving force for local development, benefiting local residents, visitors and the local economy.
A universal and inspiring dimension
The Pic du Midi embodies the convergence of science, nature and culture. Its ongoing scientific activity, rich natural heritage and collective commitment to preserving it illustrate the harmonious relationship between man and his environment.
The final stage will be the official submission of the application to UNESCO in September 2025. In the meantime, this ambitious bid continues to be underpinned by a strong regional dynamic, testifying to France’s excellence in promoting its world heritage.
