European Route d’Artagnan

“Cultural Route of the Council of Europe” certified in 2021

The European Route d'Artagnan is a physical and linear cultural route, established on the basis of historical and literary documents that retrace the epic of Charles de Batz de Castelmore d’Artagnan. In 1667 he was appointed captain-lieutenant of the 1st Company of the Musketeers of the Horse Guard of King Louis XIV. Renowned during his lifetime for his courage and his humanity, d’Artagnan became, thanks to Alexandre Dumas, a character in the collective imagination, in Europe and around the world.

The European Route d’Artagnan pays homage to this historical and literary hero by offering hikers, horseback riders and cyclists the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of d'Artagnan and the Musketeers in 15 regions and 6 European countries.

Heritage

D’Artagnan and the Musketeers travelled throughout Europe in the service of King Louis XIV. These trips gave origin to an important, intangible cultural and historical heritage, which the European Route d'Artagnan highlights thanks to the six routes established over 6,000 km. Each of them tells a unique story of the life of d'Artagnan, allowing travellers a glimpse of 17th century life and the diversity of the cultural heritage of the territories crossed.

Travelling today

From d'Artagnan's birthplace in Lupiac (Gers, France), to his deathplace in Maastricht (Netherlands), the European Route d'Artagnan invites travellers to walk, cycle, ride or even drive along magnificent trails that illustrate the epic story of d’Artagnan and the Musketeers. Along more than 6,000 km, the route takes travellers on a journey of discovery of not only 17th century European history, but also of the landscapes, identities, traditions and heritage associated with the life of this iconic figure. The route offers opportunities for sustainable and responsible travelling, in close contact with local populations and with a deep respect for the environment.

Photo Credits: ©Pierre Jean Durieu/Shutterstock

Council of Europe values

The aim of the European Route d'Artagnan is to promote cultural and human links between the different countries crossed by the route, in the respect of human rights, the rule of law and democracy. Friendship, solidarity, courage and loyalty are values symbolised by the Musketeers and which can be found in those advocated by the Council of Europe. The route presents a strong unifying theme that embodies fundamental European values such as unity, respect for others, solidarity and mutual aid, which can be summarized in the famous Musketeer motto “All for one, one for all”.