Count Gaston Fébus left his mark on this town, capital of the Béarn from 1242 to 1464. Le Pont-Vieux and the Tour Moncade, where Fébus held court and gave parties, speak of this colourful past.

Orthez, made famous through its basketball team -L'Elan béarnais- considers quality of life a key issue. The Lacq petrochemical complex has spurred on its economy. Other industries are developing, including artificial limb manufacture and corrugated cardboard production...

Trade and farming are also important, particularly production of Bellocq wine.