The Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, announced on 3 February the official nomination of the site, describing it as an exceptional example of the earliest high-mountain scientific observatories.
Rising to 2,988 metres, the Pic du Midi is one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
Its observatory was built in extreme conditions at the end of the 19th century and has, for more than 150 years, welcomed scientists from around the world working in fields including astronomy, meteorology, botany and atmospheric science.
Today, the site also attracts large numbers of visitors, drawn by its panoramic views across the Pyrenees.
The application, revived several years ago, will be examined by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee at its 49th session in July 2027.
French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed state support for the bid during a visit to the observatory in July 2025.
Another Pyrenean site, the Château de Foix, has also been nominated by France and will be examined at the same time.