Edmond Rostand Museum at Villa Arnaga

Villa Arnaga in Cambo-les-Bains was the home of Edmond Rostand for twelve years in the early twentieth century. The museum introduces the life, family and work of the writer best known as the author of Cyrano de Bergerac.

Rostand's home in Cambo-les-Bains

By 1900, Rostand was already an established writer. After becoming seriously ill, he came to Cambo-les-Bains on the advice of his friend Professor Grancher, with the local climate forming part of the decision. Rostand settled there with his wife and their two sons.

He devised the plans for Villa Arnaga and its gardens himself. The house was among the earliest Neo-Basque buildings, drawing on the form of local farmhouses while incorporating modern comforts and technical advances available at the time. After the villa passed into the ownership of the town of Cambo-les-Bains, it was converted into a museum in 1960.

Rooms and decoration

The interior extends across more than 600 square metres and contains 40 rooms. Rostand gave them markedly different decorative treatments, including Empire, Louis XVI and English styles. Paintings by Gaston La Touche also form part of the villa's decoration.

These rooms provide the setting for an account of Rostand's life with his family and an overview of his writing. The domestic surroundings are therefore integral to the museum rather than simply a backdrop to the displays.

Gardens designed by the writer

Rostand also planned the grounds. They combine a formal French garden, with a pavilion and pergola, and an English garden. The contrast between the two designs continues the variety found inside the house.

Planning a visit

Villa Arnaga is on Avenue du Docteur Alexandre Camino, 64250 Cambo-les-Bains. Opening arrangements and admission charges may change; confirm practical details with the museum before making a journey.